Back in February 2018, we broke a story about a new conversion kit system that was in development for arcades by the name of Exa-Arcadia. Since that news dropped, we’ve been keeping a very close eye on the progress of the platform, which was aiming at revitalizing the arcade market by using an old, but proven idea with modern enhancements.
The Exa-Arcadia platform, just known as the EXA board, recently launched in Japan with the scrolling shooter Aka & Blue Type-R as the launch title. That game has been performing “far above expectations” to quote Exa-Arcadia CEO Eric “ShouTime” Jung, but the news has left many outside of that country a little envious as to when they would get a chance to get their hands on the system.
Fortunately, the wait is almost over, as I get into with the latest VLOG:
When the systems will ship is stated to be “Q4 2019,” which really could be any time. This probably depends on the overall demand.
With the pre-orders, there is a page just for the EXA board (listed at $2,500), separate pieces of software or you can get the board and a game as a bundle. The four game cartridges/bundles available (NOTE: There is always a chance that pricing can change without notice)
- Kung Fu Vs. Karate Champ (Cart alone: $1500 / Bundle: $3500)
- Infinos EXA (Cart alone: $1200 / Bundle: $3500)
- Strania EX (Cart alone: $1500 / Bundle: $3500)
- Super Hydorah AC (Cart alone: $1200 / Bundle: $3500 )
Three of those are shmups, one is a 1v1 fighter, but either way way, it’s a good starting point for locations (and perhaps the occasional collector) to start adding something a little different to the mix.
We’ll share news of the pre-orders opening once that drops. What do you think about it after this latest update?
I am happy that you have been constantly covering Exa Arcadia as that can really help build grassroots support and demand for such machines.
We can ensure that the Exa Arcadia platform will become a pillar in years to come.
They’ve got some really big stuff to announce over the next six months. Assuming they hold to that, 2020 and beyond should be a pretty exciting time for Exa (and arcades)