While traditional arcade game machines are not typically known for robust user-generated content (UGC) systems like modern PC games, they employ several clever methods for player-created content discovery. The primary form of player-created content is high scores and gameplay replays. Machines handle the discovery of this content through on-screen leaderboards, displaying the top players' initials and scores for others to see and aspire to beat. This creates an immediate, localized form of competition and content sharing.

Some modern arcade cabinets, particularly those with network connectivity, take this further. They can upload high scores and replays to an online global leaderboard, allowing players to discover the best performances from around the world. This transforms a local achievement into a globally recognized piece of content.

Another method involves QR code integration. After achieving a high score or completing a specific challenge, the game might generate a QR code on the screen. Players can scan this code with their smartphones, which directs them to a website to view their replay, see their global ranking, or even share their accomplishment on social media. This bridges the gap between the physical arcade machine and the digital social space, facilitating content discovery among a player's personal network.

Furthermore, some games feature "ghost data" or replay data from other players. A player can race against the "ghost" of the top scorer, effectively experiencing another player's gameplay strategy as a form of discoverable content. This is a direct and engaging way to learn from and compete with others.

In essence, arcade machines handle player-created content discovery by leveraging local and online leaderboards, utilizing QR codes for digital sharing, and incorporating ghost data for direct gameplay comparison, all designed to foster competition and extend the game's replay value within a community.