Arcade game machines face a unique challenge: they must teach players how to play within seconds, using minimal text, and without a manual. Their onboarding is a masterclass in intuitive design. The most common method is the "Attract Mode." This is the looping demo that plays when the machine is idle. It visually showcases gameplay, controls, and objectives, acting as a passive tutorial for anyone watching.

For more direct instruction, many games use integrated tutorials. These are brief, interactive segments at the start of the first playthrough. They employ simple commands like "MOVE JOYSTICK" or "PRESS BUTTON" directly on the game screen, guiding the player through basic actions within the live game environment. This "learning by doing" approach is far more effective than reading a wall of text.

The physical design of the cabinet itself is a crucial part of the tutorial. Control panels are often laid out logically, with buttons and joysticks positioned for their specific functions. Decals on the cabinet art frequently illustrate special moves or character abilities. Some games even feature instruction cards mounted on the cabinet, providing a quick reference for controls and scoring.

Furthermore, game difficulty is a subtle onboarding tool. Early levels are designed to be forgiving, allowing players to learn mechanics through gradual challenge escalation. This careful balancing act ensures that the initial experience is engaging but not frustrating, encouraging continued play and, most importantly, more coins inserted. This blend of visual demonstration, interactive prompts, and thoughtful hardware design creates a seamless and immediate onboarding experience unique to the arcade.