With the holiday season approaching, it’s time to embrace the joy of Christmas–and what better way than through classic arcade games with a holiday twist? Christmas-themed arcade games take the best parts of retro gaming and mix in the sparkle and joy of the holidays.
They’re a huge hit in arcades worldwide, with many gamers seeing them as an essential part of their seasonal celebrations. As of recent stats, holiday arcade games are one of the most popular categories in arcades, particularly in North America and Europe, with arcade traffic increasing during the holiday season.
This hasn’t gone unnoticed, as industries like the online casino space have made sure to adopt some Christmas arcade-themed slots, such as the Santa’s Gift Run slot. Recognizing that not everyone can easily visit arcade locations, these top online casinos for real money are filling the gap by offering arcade-themed slots on their platforms.
This ensures that players can still enjoy the festive spirit of classic arcade games from the comfort of their homes. Below are 4 fun Christmas-themed arcade games.
Santa’s Workshop Crane Game
The Santa’s Workshop Crane game is a holiday spin on the traditional claw machine. Players operate a joystick to maneuver a crane over an assortment of Christmas-themed plush toys and prizes, like mini Santas, reindeer, and snowmen.
In operation since the 1980s, crane games have grown to be arcade staples, especially during the holiday season when themed prizes draw in families and young players alike. The American
Amusement Machine Association notes the longevity of crane games in the industry, with companies like Smart Industries introducing festive designs to match the season.
Some of the Ideal arcades across the US see a noticeable increase in crane game revenue during December, as players compete to win holiday-themed prizes for friends and family.
Santa’s Snowball Fight
Snowball fights have always been a Christmas classic, but “Santa’s Snowball Fight” takes it to a new level. In this game, players take control of Santa as he battles his way through an army of mischievous elves, trying to defend the North Pole from snowball-wielding foes. The objective is to hit the elves with snowballs before they can reach Santa.
“Santa’s Snowball Fight” has become a top-tier holiday favorite due to its quick reflex challenges, nostalgic design, and engaging gameplay. Originally released in the early 2000s, it quickly became a hit among families.
Even now, arcades report a surge in players around December, with games like this seeing a big boost in playtime compared to other seasons. This game perfectly captures the Christmas spirit, both competitive and festive, and remains a must-play during the holiday arcade scene.
Christmas Car Racing
Christmas Car Racing brings a fun holiday twist to the classic arcade racing format. The game invites players to speed down snowy tracks filled with festive sights like Christmas trees, sparkling lights, and snow-covered roads.
Players have to steer through icy patches and dodge decorated holiday obstacles, adding just the right amount of seasonal thrill. Coin-operated racing games have been arcade staples since the 1980s. However, Christmas editions like this see a spike in popularity every December, with holiday-themed tracks drawing in families and groups of all ages.
Industry data shows that festive racing games enjoy up to a 20% increase in playtime during the winter, especially in arcade locations and family entertainment centers.
Reindeer Round-Up
Reindeer Round-Up combines elements of skill-based gameplay with a festive twist, challenging players to “catch” reindeer by pressing buttons as they appear on the screen.
Similar in style to Whac-A-Mole, Reindeer Round-Up is a game of timing and reflexes, where the objective is to hit targets that represent runaway reindeer. Players earn points based on speed and accuracy, encouraging kids and adults to keep trying for a higher score.
According to the American Amusement Machine Association, skill-based games like this continue to be top performers in arcades, especially when given a seasonal twist. During December, Reindeer Round-Up draws large crowds in amusement parks, family arcades, and themed holiday sections.