Arcade games, known for their fast-paced and bite-sized gameplay, might seem unlikely candidates for deep storytelling. However, many classic and modern arcade titles skillfully weave narrative elements into their design despite the constraints of short play sessions. Here’s how they do it:

1. Visual Storytelling: Arcade games often rely on expressive sprites, vibrant backgrounds, and subtle environmental details to convey lore. For example, the dystopian world of "Street Fighter" is hinted at through stage designs and character interactions.

2. Character Archetypes: Simple yet iconic characters like Pac-Man or Donkey Kong instantly communicate their roles and motivations, allowing players to infer narratives without lengthy cutscenes.

3. Progressive Unfolding: Games like "Metal Slug" use brief intermissions or level transitions to advance a minimal plot, keeping players engaged without disrupting gameplay flow.

4. High-Impact Moments: Even in short sessions, arcade games deliver memorable narrative beats—such as the damsel-in-distress trope in "Donkey Kong"—to create emotional resonance.

5. Player Imagination: The brevity of arcade games encourages players to fill in narrative gaps, making the experience more personal and immersive.

By blending these techniques, arcade games prove that compelling storytelling doesn’t always require lengthy playtimes—just creativity in design.