Difference between revisions of "Overview & Options to Consider"
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==Restoration graphics== | ==Restoration graphics== | ||
| − | One of the most straitforward methods of adding some pizzaz to your cabinet is to | + | One of the most straitforward methods of adding some pizzaz to your cabinet is to use reproduction artwork based on your favorite game. There are many distinctive cabinets that have been released over the years, Pac-Man, Galaga, Defender (all of the Williams cabinets, really) for which artwork is still reproduced by reputable dealers and readily available. If you choose to use repro art there are a few things you need to consider; |
1. cost of reproduction graphics<br /> | 1. cost of reproduction graphics<br /> | ||
| + | Usually bezels, marquees, and control panel artwork are usually fairly inexpensive and easily available, usually in the range of $10-$50 each. Side art is usually more expensive, running from $50-$300 for a complete set. | ||
| + | |||
2. availability of repro artwork (if you are interested in something a little more rare it may be difficult to find everything) <br /> | 2. availability of repro artwork (if you are interested in something a little more rare it may be difficult to find everything) <br /> | ||
| + | If your favorite game is Ms. Pac Man you can easily find the art for sale online, at an auction or on eBay for a reasonable price (not necessarily cheap, though) If your favorite game happened to be [http://www.macmame.net/klov/defnder3.html Defender 3] chances are you're not going to easily find repro or N.O.S (new old-stock) to use on your cab. If you're really restoring a cabinet, it may be worth the wait to find something to complete your rare vintage cab. If you aren't restoring, just pick something else cool... at least that way your cabinet will look good while you're trying to find the rare stuff. | ||
| + | |||
3. accuracy of available reproduction artwork<br /> | 3. accuracy of available reproduction artwork<br /> | ||
4. difficulty of application of the artwork. <br /> | 4. difficulty of application of the artwork. <br /> | ||
Revision as of 16:09, 24 February 2006
Adding graphics to your cabinet can transform it from an oversized PC case into a functional piece of arcade artwork. It's the final touch that can make or break a great cabinet. The right choice of artwork and details can make a generic cabinet look simply amazing, while poorly done artwork options can make the most inventive cabinet design look dull. Though it's easy to overlook this area of cabinet building, it should be considered a crucial final step in creating your personal piece of arcade history.
There are generally 5 main approaches to designing the look of your cabinet that you may want to consider early in the planning phase of your cabinet. Each has drawbacks, and each requires varying degrees of skill to execute. Find detailed descriptions below.
More information to come;
Contents
Restoration graphics
One of the most straitforward methods of adding some pizzaz to your cabinet is to use reproduction artwork based on your favorite game. There are many distinctive cabinets that have been released over the years, Pac-Man, Galaga, Defender (all of the Williams cabinets, really) for which artwork is still reproduced by reputable dealers and readily available. If you choose to use repro art there are a few things you need to consider;
1. cost of reproduction graphics
Usually bezels, marquees, and control panel artwork are usually fairly inexpensive and easily available, usually in the range of $10-$50 each. Side art is usually more expensive, running from $50-$300 for a complete set.
2. availability of repro artwork (if you are interested in something a little more rare it may be difficult to find everything)
If your favorite game is Ms. Pac Man you can easily find the art for sale online, at an auction or on eBay for a reasonable price (not necessarily cheap, though) If your favorite game happened to be Defender 3 chances are you're not going to easily find repro or N.O.S (new old-stock) to use on your cab. If you're really restoring a cabinet, it may be worth the wait to find something to complete your rare vintage cab. If you aren't restoring, just pick something else cool... at least that way your cabinet will look good while you're trying to find the rare stuff.
3. accuracy of available reproduction artwork
4. difficulty of application of the artwork.
Resto-mod graphics
More information to come
Original theme graphics
More information to come
Physical design
More information to come
Hodge Podge
More information to come
