Arcade games master real-time multiplayer synchronization through a sophisticated combination of networking protocols and predictive algorithms. The process begins with dedicated game servers that act as synchronization authorities, continuously receiving inputs from all connected cabinets and calculating the definitive game state. To combat inherent network latency, developers implement techniques like input buffering and rollback netcode, which temporarily stores player commands and retrospectively corrects minor synchronization errors without disrupting gameplay.

Clock synchronization protocols ensure all machines maintain identical time references, critical for simultaneous event processing. The game state is constantly compared across terminals, with any discrepancies triggering automatic corrections during natural gameplay pauses or transition screens. For fighting and racing games, deterministic lockstep models ensure all machines process identical inputs in the same order, while prediction algorithms anticipate player movements during the brief milliseconds of network transmission.

Modern arcade systems utilize fiber-optic connections and local area networking to minimize latency to under 20 milliseconds, creating the illusion of perfectly synchronized action. This technological orchestration allows players in different locations to experience multiplayer competitions as if they were standing side-by-side at the same arcade cabinet, maintaining both competitive integrity and immersive gameplay.