Arcade machines have long been pioneers in delivering intense gaming experiences, particularly within post-apocalyptic and survival-horror genres. These cabinets employ multiple strategies to immerse players in dystopian worlds and horror scenarios. The physical design often sets the tone, with cabinets featuring weathered finishes, faux rust, and apocalyptic graffiti that visually transport players to ruined futures. The game mechanics themselves emphasize survival through limited resources—players manage scarce ammunition, health packs, and time constraints, creating constant tension.

Environmental storytelling is achieved through pixel-art wastelands, eerie sound design with limited audio loops, and CRT screen flickers that enhance the horror atmosphere. Difficulty spikes and permadeath features mirror survival-horror themes, where single mistakes force players to restart from the beginning, much like escaping existential threats. Additionally, cabinet art often depicts dystopian imagery and horror elements, reinforcing the narrative before the game even begins. By integrating these mechanical and aesthetic elements, arcade machines create compelling, immersive experiences that defined early survival-horror and post-apocalyptic gaming.