Beat-em-up games, known for their side-scrolling combat and cooperative gameplay, evolved significantly between arcade and console platforms. The fundamental differences stem from their core business models and design philosophies.

Arcade beat-em-ups were designed as coin-operated machines. Their primary purpose was to generate continuous revenue, which dictated specific design choices. These games typically featured:

- Deliberately shorter gameplay sessions, often 30-60 minutes for a complete playthrough

- Higher default difficulty levels to encourage players to insert more coins

- Limited continues that required additional payment

- Immediate pick-up-and-play accessibility with minimal tutorials

- Attractive cabinet artwork and controls optimized for public spaces

Console beat-em-ups, adapted for home entertainment, prioritized player satisfaction over revenue generation. Key characteristics included:

- Expanded content with additional levels, characters, and gameplay modes

- Adjustable difficulty settings accommodating both casual and hardcore players

- Unlimited continues or save systems allowing completion at one's own pace

- Deeper progression systems and unlockable content

- Enhanced mechanics like special move inputs and combo systems

The technological transition also impacted game design. Arcade machines often possessed superior hardware, allowing for more detailed sprites and simultaneous on-screen enemies. Console versions frequently compensated through creative scaling, additional narrative elements, and exclusive features not found in their arcade counterparts.

This divergence created distinct experiences: arcade versions offered intense, skill-testing sessions perfect for short bursts, while console adaptations provided more comprehensive packages tailored to home consumption. Understanding these differences explains why many players have distinct preferences for particular versions of classic beat-em-ups like Final Fight, Streets of Rage, and Double Dragon.