The visual experience of arcade gaming has undergone revolutionary transformations since the golden age of arcades. The journey began with Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) monitors, which dominated early cabinets with their distinctive scanlines and deep contrast. These bulky displays enabled classic vector graphics games like Asteroids (1979), where precise line drawings created minimalist yet captivating visuals. The technology also made light gun games possible through phosphor glow detection.

The 1990s introduced larger CRT screens with higher refresh rates, supporting more complex 2D sprite-based games like Street Fighter II. The real shift occurred with Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) technology in the 2000s, which offered thinner cabinets, reduced power consumption, and eliminated screen burn-in issues. Modern arcades now feature high-resolution 4K LCD panels with wide viewing angles and LED backlighting, providing stunning clarity for rhythm games and racing simulators.

Recently, Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED) displays have emerged, delivering perfect blacks and ultra-fast response times ideal for competitive fighting games. Some manufacturers even incorporate curved screens and projection mapping for immersive environmental storytelling. Despite technological advances, many enthusiasts still seek original CRT monitors for authentic retro gaming experiences, proving that while resolution improves, the soul of arcade visuals remains timeless.