Arcade machines employ sophisticated systems to enforce player session time limits, primarily driven by revenue optimization and hardware protection needs. The most fundamental method is the coin-operated timer system, where inserting coins purchases a predetermined amount of play time. This is managed through either hardware-based countdown timers or software counters integrated into the game's code.

Hardware timers often use dedicated circuits that trigger an interrupt to the main processor when the allocated time expires, forcefully ending the game session. Software implementations typically maintain a countdown variable in memory that decrements based on the system clock, displaying remaining time on-screen through timers or "credits remaining" indicators.

Modern arcade systems utilize credit-based duration control, where different coin values purchase varying play durations. Some machines implement dynamic difficulty adjustments - shortening or extending session lengths based on player skill to maintain engagement while ensuring turnover. Networked arcade systems can remotely adjust time limits based on location traffic patterns.

When time expires, machines typically employ visual warnings like flashing displays before initiating a hard reset sequence. This ensures continuous revenue flow while preventing hardware damage from extended play sessions.