With the increased popularity of virtual reality gaming and the nostalgic feeling of entering a retro video game arcade comes a device that bridges both worlds. I time-traveled back to the '80s playing the Arcade2TV-XR by X-Arcade and genuinely enjoyed this trip down memory lane. The mixed reality arcade controller transforms your room into an arcade-like experience with retro games and life-like pinball machines on the Quest 2 and Quest 3 VR headsets.
Arcade2TV-XR Controller with Pedestal by X-Arcade
The Arcade2TV-XR connects via a small Bluetooth dongle attached to your VR headset. It maps games like Pinball FX VR through virtual reality and mixed reality, allowing you to play classic arcade games with a physical controller. The control surface includes joysticks, arcade buttons, a trackball and pinball flipper buttons on the right and left of the device, making for a very immersive arcade experience.Â
It is compatible with all modern and older gaming consoles, including the PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo, as well as PC and Mac, through gaming adapters. However, you are limited to only certain types of games on those consoles, so be sure to read exactly what's compatible before you purchase on the X-Arcade website.Â
Indiana Jones VR Pinball Machine in Pinball FX VR
The Arcade 2TV-XR currently costs $399 for the full bundle, which includes the pedestal stand, while the Tankstick-VR controller can be purchased separately for $299.Â
I spent some time playing Pinball FX VR and Arcade Ranger, which were both a lot of fun. Check out my first-look video for more detailed information on how to see and experience X-Arcade's Arcade2TV-XR.