Designing arcade machines for global competitive play presents unique challenges that require careful consideration. One major hurdle is ensuring hardware durability, as high-traffic arcades demand machines that can withstand intense, prolonged use. Another challenge is balancing game difficulty to appeal to both casual players and hardcore competitors across different regions.

Cultural preferences also play a significant role, as gaming trends and control schemes vary worldwide. Developers must account for language barriers in multiplayer settings while maintaining intuitive gameplay. Additionally, network infrastructure differences between countries can affect online competitive features.

The rise of esports has raised expectations for arcade machines, requiring advanced tracking systems for fair competition and standardized input methods for tournament play. Finally, maintaining consistent machine performance across global locations, despite varying maintenance standards, remains an ongoing challenge for arcade manufacturers.