Arcade machine joysticks and buttons, despite their rugged construction, are subject to several common failure modes due to intensive use and environmental factors. The most prevalent issues with joysticks typically involve microswitch failure, where the internal switching mechanism wears out or breaks, resulting in unresponsive or inconsistent directional inputs. Physical wear on the joystick's pivot mechanism and spring fatigue can cause loose, sloppy movement or failure to center properly. For arcade buttons, the primary failure point is the microswitch beneath the button plunger, which suffers from worn or oxidized electrical contacts that prevent proper circuit completion. Buttons may also experience broken springs that affect their tactile response, or the plastic plunger itself can crack over time. Both components commonly suffer from debris accumulation - dust, spilled liquids, and food particles can interfere with mechanical operation and electrical connectivity. The constant physical impact from players leads to worn-out contact points, fractured plastic components, and eventually complete failure of the primary mechanisms. Regular cleaning and periodic replacement of high-wear components like microswitches can significantly extend the operational life of arcade controls. Understanding these failure patterns helps arcade operators and enthusiasts maintain their equipment more effectively.