Arcade machines have long been a staple of competitive gaming, offering features that support tournament play and high-score tracking. Modern arcade cabinets often include networked systems that allow players to compete in real-time, either locally or online. These systems can track scores, rank players, and even display leaderboards to foster a competitive environment.

For tournaments, arcade machines may offer customizable settings, such as time limits or difficulty adjustments, to level the playing field. High-score tracking is often integrated into the machine’s software, saving top performances and displaying them prominently to motivate players. Some arcades even use cloud-based systems to sync scores across multiple locations, creating a global competitive scene.

Classic arcade games like "Pac-Man" and "Street Fighter" pioneered these concepts, while modern titles continue to innovate with online leaderboards and esports integrations. Whether in a local arcade or a large-scale tournament, these features keep the spirit of competition alive in arcade gaming.