Arcade machines handle dynamic physics-based puzzles through a sophisticated combination of specialized hardware and optimized software architecture. Unlike modern gaming systems, classic arcade cabinets relied on custom-designed processors and dedicated physics chips that could perform real-time calculations for collision detection, projectile trajectories, and object interactions. The hardware was specifically engineered to manage these computations within strict timing constraints, ensuring smooth gameplay despite limited processing power.

Game developers employed clever programming techniques to simulate physics within these constraints. They used pre-calculated lookup tables for common physics interactions rather than computing complex equations in real-time. For puzzle games, this meant designing predictable physics behaviors that players could master through repeated play. The machines processed input from joysticks and buttons through dedicated I/O controllers that fed directly into the physics calculation routines, creating immediate visual feedback on the CRT display.

Memory management played a crucial role in handling dynamic puzzles. Arcade systems utilized fast-access RAM to store object states and position data, allowing for quick updates during puzzle sequences. Developers often implemented grid-based collision systems and simplified physics models that maintained the illusion of complex interactions while remaining computationally affordable. This approach enabled iconic puzzle mechanics in games where players had to account for momentum, gravity, and object relationships while solving challenges.

The enduring success of physics-based arcade puzzles demonstrates how engineers creatively worked within hardware limitations to deliver engaging experiences. By understanding both the capabilities and constraints of arcade technology, developers crafted puzzles that felt responsive and realistic within their specific contexts, laying the foundation for many physics-based game mechanics still used in modern gaming.