Arcade machines are designed to deliver fast, responsive gameplay, which often involves dynamic physics simulations. Unlike modern consoles or PCs, arcade hardware is optimized for specific games, allowing developers to fine-tune physics calculations for real-time performance.

Most arcade machines use simplified physics models to reduce computational overhead. Instead of running complex, high-fidelity simulations, they rely on pre-calculated trajectories, collision tables, and approximation techniques. This ensures smooth gameplay even with limited processing power.

Specialized hardware, such as custom chips or dedicated physics processors, helps handle tasks like ball movement, character interactions, and environmental effects. Developers also employ clever tricks—like frame-based updates or fixed timesteps—to maintain consistency across different machine models.

By prioritizing efficiency over realism, arcade machines achieve the dynamic physics needed for engaging gameplay without sacrificing speed or responsiveness.