Arcade machines have long been a hub for competitive gaming, handling Player vs Player (PvP) gameplay through several technical and design approaches. The most common method is through direct two-player control on a single cabinet. Classic fighting games like "Street Fighter II" or "Mortal Kombat" featured dual sets of controls—joysticks and buttons—on one machine, allowing two players to compete head-to-head on the same screen. This setup was efficient and encouraged spontaneous competition in arcades.

For more immersive experiences, some arcades used linked cabinets. Games like "Daytona USA" or "The House of the Dead" could connect multiple physical machines via wired or networked systems, enabling players to race or shoot against each other from different units. This required specialized hardware and wiring but expanded the social aspect of arcade gaming.

Additionally, arcade PvP often incorporated winner-stays-on mechanics, where the victor would continue playing while challengers queued up, fostering a competitive environment. The software in these machines managed player inputs, synchronized actions, and displayed outcomes in real-time, relying on robust hardware to minimize lag—a critical factor for fairness.

While modern online multiplayer has evolved, traditional arcades laid the groundwork for PvP with their focus on local, tangible competition and instant feedback, creating a timeless appeal for gamers.