One of the most appealing features of the Switch when it was first released back in 2017 was its ability to be played in both handheld and docked mode. But what if there was another way to play? This is a question that seems to have plagued the incredibly talented designers over at Passocade, and what they came up with is surely every gamer’s dream — a cocktail table arcade cabinet.
Right off the bat we want to clarify that this device is only a prototype and although Passocade does have other cabinets for sale, there are currently no plans to make it available to purchase. But all the same, how cool does it look? The table cabinet controller offers the big screen experience of the Switch’s docked mode with the classic button capabilities of a retro arcade machine.
The above trailer showcases the device in action with some of the console’s retro-inspired titles such as Ultra Street Fighter II: The Final Challengers showcasing this throwback playing mode. Some might prefer upright cabinets, but there’s no denying that this one is a bit more practical, as it can double as a normal coffee table for the brief periods when you’re not using it to beat Ken to a pulp with a Spinning Bird Kick.
The Switch has become a great port for a host of Nintendo’s classic games, thanks in large part to the introduction of the Nintendo Switch Online retro library, but the Arcade Archives range also offers a huge number of coin-op classics to choose from. We know that each of these would be prime material for this arcade setting.
Alternatively, there’s nothing stopping playing modern games on it. How about some Shredder’s Revenge if you’re after that neo-retro flavour? Or something more modern, perhaps, to see how newer titles mapp onto the classic controls (Super Smash Bros. Ulimate and something un-arcade-y like, say, Pokémon Sword and Shield would be first on our list we think).
With an HD monitor and documented co-op capabilities, the device would be a must for any competitive gaming night — there is nothing quite like the aggravated button mashing of an arcade cab!
For other Nintendo big builds that have impressed us no end, check out the links below (warning, may result in serious feelings of envy).
Are you also itching to get your hands on this awesome device? Let us know what you think down below.
