Arcade game developers implement real-time player interaction through sophisticated networking architectures that prioritize speed and reliability. Modern arcade systems utilize client-server models where the arcade cabinet acts as a client connecting to a central game server. This server manages game state, processes player inputs, and synchronizes actions across all connected machines. Developers employ techniques like frame synchronization, where each player's inputs are collected and processed simultaneously for each game frame, ensuring fair and consistent gameplay. For fighting games and competitive titles, rollback netcode has become essential - this system predicts player movements and instantly corrects any discrepancies, creating smooth interactions even with minor latency. The architecture typically involves UDP protocols for faster transmission than TCP, sacrificing some reliability for lower latency, which is crucial for split-second reactions in arcade gaming. Additional layers handle matchmaking, maintaining persistent player profiles, and implementing anti-cheat measures. These systems must balance computational efficiency with network responsiveness, often using dedicated servers located strategically to minimize ping times across different regions. The result is an immersive experience where players can interact seamlessly, whether they're competing head-to-head or cooperating in team-based arcade challenges.