Designing arcade games for mixed-age group play requires careful planning to ensure enjoyment and accessibility for all players. Here are the key considerations:

1. Simple Yet Engaging Mechanics: The game should have easy-to-understand controls for younger players while offering depth or challenges to keep older players engaged.

2. Inclusive Themes and Aesthetics: Avoid overly complex or mature themes. Bright, colorful visuals and universal concepts (e.g., racing, puzzles) appeal to all ages.

3. Adjustable Difficulty Levels: Incorporate scalable difficulty or progressive challenges to cater to different skill levels without frustrating younger players.

4. Multiplayer and Cooperative Play: Encourage interaction by allowing players of different ages to team up or compete in a balanced way.

5. Safety and Accessibility: Ensure physical safety (e.g., ergonomic controls) and consider accessibility features like subtitles or adjustable speeds.

By focusing on these elements, designers can create arcade games that bring families and friends together for shared fun.