Arcade game machines have long been a staple of multiplayer gaming, offering various methods to accommodate multiple players. Here’s how they handle multiplayer functionality:

1. Turn-Based Play: Classic arcade games like "Pac-Man" or "Donkey Kong" often allow players to take turns, with the highest score determining the next player. This simple method avoids technical complexity while encouraging competition.

2. Simultaneous Play (Split-Screen or Shared Screen): Games like "Gauntlet" or "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" let multiple players join at once, either sharing the same screen or using split-screen mechanics. This requires synchronized controls and game logic to ensure fairness.

3. Linked Cabinets: Some arcade systems, such as "Daytona USA," connect multiple cabinets via networking, allowing players to compete or cooperate in real time. This was an early form of online multiplayer in arcades.

4. Cooperative vs. Competitive Modes: Many games offer both cooperative (players team up) and competitive (players face off) multiplayer modes, adjusting gameplay mechanics like enemy difficulty or scoring systems accordingly.

5. Hardware Limitations and Innovations: Early arcade machines had limited processing power, so developers used creative solutions like alternating frames or simplified graphics to support multiplayer. Modern arcades leverage advanced hardware for seamless experiences.

From turn-based classics to networked racing games, arcade machines have evolved to deliver engaging multiplayer experiences, shaping the social aspect of gaming culture.