Arcade machines, often seen as relics of a bygone era, have ingeniously supported player-created tutorials through various embedded and community-driven features. Unlike modern games with digital manuals, arcade cabinets rely on player ingenuity to share knowledge.

The most direct method is through the game's scoring system. High score screens often display the initials of the player who achieved them. Savvy players use this limited space to input short codes or abbreviations hinting at strategies, like a specific sequence of moves (e.g., "D,U,D" for down, up, down). This transforms the scoreboard into a cryptic tutorial board for those who can decipher it.

Furthermore, the physical design of the cabinet itself becomes a canvas. Players might place custom-made stickers or subtle markings near the control panel to indicate optimal button combinations or timing cues for complex maneuvers. This on-cabinet annotation serves as a permanent visual guide for anyone approaching the machine.

The social aspect of arcades is perhaps the greatest tutorial engine. The crowded, public nature of arcades fosters a culture of observation and mentorship. Experienced players often demonstrate techniques directly on the machine for onlookers, creating an impromptu, hands-on tutorial. This oral and visual tradition ensures skills and strategies are passed down through the community.

Finally, some modern re-releases or community-modified cabinets feature "watch mode" or replay functions. This allows players to observe the gameplay of a previous expert, studying their exact inputs and strategies frame-by-frame, effectively learning from a ghost of a master player. Thus, through a blend of hardware, social interaction, and clever use of existing systems, arcade culture has consistently supported player-driven education.