Software piracy in arcade games has been a persistent issue, but developers employ several effective methods to combat it. One common approach is Digital Rights Management (DRM), which restricts unauthorized copying and distribution. Another method involves hardware-based locks, where the game is tied to specific arcade machine components, making it difficult to replicate.

Online verification is also widely used, requiring the game to authenticate with a server before running. This ensures only legitimate copies can operate. Additionally, encryption techniques protect game code from being easily reverse-engineered or tampered with.

Some developers use unique licensing agreements with arcade operators, legally binding them to prevent unauthorized use. Lastly, frequent updates and patches help close vulnerabilities that pirates might exploit. By combining these methods, the arcade industry can significantly reduce piracy and protect its intellectual property.