Creating an engaging survival mode in arcade games requires careful design to balance challenge and enjoyment. Here are the best practices to ensure your survival mode stands out:

1. Progressive Difficulty: Start with manageable challenges and gradually increase difficulty to keep players hooked without overwhelming them.

2. Reward Systems: Implement meaningful rewards, such as power-ups or unlockables, to motivate players to push their limits.

3. Clear Objectives: Provide clear goals and feedback so players understand their progress and what’s needed to advance.

4. Dynamic Environments: Introduce unpredictable elements, like changing obstacles or enemy patterns, to keep gameplay fresh.

5. Player Customization: Allow players to tailor their experience with customizable difficulty settings or character upgrades.

By focusing on these elements, you can create a survival mode that is both challenging and rewarding, ensuring long-term player engagement.