Arcade machine spinner controls, those iconic rotary knobs that defined classics like Tempest and Arkanoid, have specific settings that impact gameplay significantly. While original arcade cabinets didn't feature in-game menus for adjustments, their physical configurations and internal settings created distinct playing experiences. The most common spinner settings involve sensitivity, mechanical resistance, and knob design.

Sensitivity is paramount. This determines how many game units (like degrees of rotation) correspond to one physical turn of the knob. In highly sensitive settings, a small twist creates a large on-screen movement, ideal for fast-paced games like Tempest. Lower sensitivity offers finer control for precise maneuvers in games like Arkanoid. This was often fixed on original hardware via the game's programming or internal potentiometers.

Mechanical resistance, or "feel," is another critical setting. This is governed by the spinner's mechanical construction. Some spinners use a direct drive with low friction for free-spinning action, allowing for rapid, continuous turns. Others incorporate a rubber O-ring or belt drive system that provides subtle tension and feedback, preventing overshooting targets. The weight of the knob itself also contributes to momentum and control.

The physical knob design is a key part of the control setting. The most common types are the large, fluted knob (seen on Tempest) for a solid grip during frantic play, and the smaller, ball-top knob (common on Arkanoid) for precise finger-tip control. The material—often heavy plastic or metal—affects the spinner's inertia.

For modern enthusiasts using MAME (Multiple Arcade Machine Emulator) or building custom cabinets, software settings replicate these physical traits. Emulators allow users to digitally calibrate sensitivity, adjust the number of pulses per rotation, and set auto-centering behavior to mimic the feel of different original machines. Understanding these fundamental settings—sensitivity, resistance, and hardware design—is essential for achieving an authentic and enjoyable classic arcade experience.