Arcade machines have evolved to handle player progression tracking across multiple sessions through various methods. Traditional arcades relied on high-score tables, but modern systems use more sophisticated approaches.

1. Memory Cards: Some arcade cabinets, like those from Namco or Sega, support memory cards (e.g., Banapassport) to save player data, including unlocked content and progress.

2. Online Accounts: Networked arcades (e.g., Round1 or Dave & Busters) link progress to player accounts via QR codes or RFID cards, syncing data to cloud servers.

3. Local Storage: Certain games store limited progress on the machine itself, though this is reset if power is lost or the cabinet is serviced.

4. Token Systems: A few arcades use physical tokens or tickets to represent progress, which players can redeem in future sessions.

These systems balance convenience with arcade operators' need to prevent cheating or data loss. The shift toward cloud-based tracking reflects the growing demand for persistent progression in arcade gaming.