Hardware Evercade Alpha Review: The Ultimate Retro Gaming Experience?

The Evercade Alpha represents a bold step forward in retro gaming, bringing the authentic arcade experience directly to your home. This bar-top arcade system combines classic gaming nostalgia with modern technology, offering an extensive library of over 500 games and premium build quality. Our Evercade Alpha review examines whether this new addition to the Evercade family delivers the ultimate retro gaming experience.

The system stands out with its professional-grade arcade controls, stunning 8-inch IPS display, and dual cartridge functionality. We'll explore its distinctive features, including the illuminated marquee, authentic coin slot mechanism, and impressive game library featuring Capcom classics. Our detailed analysis covers everything from build quality and control responsiveness to emulation performance and multiplayer capabilities.



Standing proudly at 16 inches tall, the Evercade Alpha immediately commands attention with its authentic arcade cabinet design. This bar-top arcade system strikes an impressive balance between nostalgic esthetics and modern functionality, making it substantially larger than comparable systems like the Neo Geo Mini or Astro City Mini.

Bar-top arcade form factor

The Alpha's dimensions (410mm x 316mm x 244mm) create a perfectly proportioned miniature arcade cabinet that fits comfortably on any desk or shelf. The build quality is remarkably solid, featuring premium materials including wooden side panels that channel the classic arcade cabinet feel. Available in two distinct versions – Street Fighter and Mega Man – the system's design pays homage to the iconic big blue cabinet esthetic.

8-inch IPS display

At the heart of the Alpha lies an impressive 8-inch IPS display with a 4:3 aspect ratio and 1024 x 768 resolution. While some might wish for a larger screen, the display quality more than makes up for its size with:

• Sharp, vibrant colors that pop off the screen
• Crystal-clear pixel reproduction
• Excellent viewing angles
• Pre-applied protective film for scratch prevention

Illuminated marquee and coin slot

The attention to detail in the Alpha's design extends to its authentic arcade esthetics. The illuminated marquee system is particularly impressive, featuring:

• Three interchangeable marquee designs included
• Tool-free artwork swapping capability
• Bright, attention-grabbing illumination
• Custom artwork options for different games

The power button cleverly disguised as an illuminated coin slot adds another layer of authenticity to the arcade experience. Located on the front panel alongside volume controls and a 3.5mm headphone jack, these modern conveniences are thoughtfully integrated without compromising the classic arcade esthetic.

Dual cartridge slots

Perhaps the most innovative design element is the dual cartridge system, positioned to mimic a traditional coin tray. This feature not only maintains the authentic arcade appearance but serves a practical purpose by allowing players to:

1. Access the entire Evercade library of 500+ games
2. Switch between different game collections seamlessly
3. Mix and match various gaming genres
4. Enjoy arcade, console, and computer classics without changing cartridges frequently

The system is powered via USB-C, with an international mains adapter included in the package. The clean, intuitive user interface complements the hardware design perfectly, making navigation through your game library a seamless experience whether you're new to Evercade or a seasoned enthusiast.

The overall build quality of the Alpha demonstrates Evercade's commitment to creating a premium retro gaming experience. From the solid construction to the thoughtful integration of modern features, every aspect of the design serves both form and function, creating a worthy addition to any retro gaming collection.



The heart of any arcade system lies in its controls, and the Evercade Alpha delivers an authentic arcade experience that will satisfy both casual players and fighting game enthusiasts. After extensive testing across various game genres, we've found the control system to be remarkably well-implemented.

Competition-grade arcade controls

The Alpha comes equipped with professional-grade arcade components that immediately feel substantial under your fingers. The standard edition features quality parts, while the Deluxe Edition ups the ante with pre-fitted Sanwa stick and buttons – the gold standard in arcade controls. The control layout includes:

• Eight-directional joystick with precise diagonal detection
• Six large, responsive action buttons
• Dedicated menu, start, and credit buttons
• Ergonomically positioned controls for extended play sessions

Responsiveness and accuracy

During our testing, the controls proved exceptionally responsive, particularly during intense gaming sessions. Street Fighter matches demonstrated the system's capability to handle complex inputs with remarkable precision. Special moves and combos executed consistently, and the tight control response made even the most demanding games feel natural and intuitive.

The joystick offers the perfect balance of tension and feedback, while the buttons provide that satisfying click that arcade enthusiasts crave. We experienced no input lag or missed commands, even during the most frantic gaming moments.

Multiplayer options

The Alpha's multiplayer implementation focuses on local competitive and cooperative play through its dual USB ports. While shoulder-to-shoulder gaming on the 8-inch display might feel cramped for some, the system offers flexible multiplayer options:

1. Connect two USB controllers for comfortable competitive play
2. Use existing Evercade controllers
3. Compatible with popular third-party controllers and arcade sticks

It's worth noting that there's currently no online multiplayer support or HDMI output option, which somewhat limits the multiplayer potential. However, the USB controller support ensures that you can still enjoy multiplayer sessions with proper spacing and comfort.

Compatibility with Evercade cartridges

The dual cartridge system proves to be more than just a clever design choice – it's a gateway to an extensive gaming library. The Alpha maintains perfect compatibility with the entire Evercade cartridge collection, spanning arcade, console, and computer classics. This backward compatibility means immediate access to over 500 officially licensed games.

The system handles cartridge hot-swapping smoothly, and the firmware includes modern conveniences like:

• Quick save states for game progression
• Control remapping options
• Monthly bonus games
• Hidden game discoveries

The control system truly shines with arcade-style games, particularly the purple-spine arcade cartridge collection. Fighting games, shoot 'em ups, and classic arcade titles feel right at home on the Alpha's control panel, offering the authentic arcade experience that many retro gaming enthusiasts seek.

The combination of premium controls, extensive compatibility, and thoughtful multiplayer options creates a compelling package for retro gaming enthusiasts. While the lack of online features and TV-out capabilities might disappoint some users, the core experience of playing these classic games remains incredibly satisfying.



Diving into the gaming heart of the Evercade Alpha reveals an impressive library that spans decades of gaming history. The system's dual approach to game delivery – combining pre-installed classics with expandable cartridge support – creates a comprehensive retro gaming platform that continues to grow.

Pre-installed Capcom classics

Each Evercade Alpha variant comes loaded with six carefully selected Capcom titles, offering distinct gaming experiences. The Street Fighter edition delivers an impressive fighting game collection:

• Street Fighter II' Champion Edition
• Super Street Fighter II Turbo
• Street Fighter Alpha: Warriors' Dreams
• Street Fighter Alpha 2
• Street Fighter Alpha 3
• Super Puzzle Fighter II Turbo

The Mega Man edition, despite its branding, offers a more diverse arcade experience:

• Mega Man: The Power Battle
• Mega Man 2: The Power Fighters
• Final Fight
• Knights of the Round
• Carrier Air Wing
• Strider

These aren't just random selections – they represent some of Capcom's finest arcade offerings, with several titles making their first appearance in this form factor. The Street Fighter variant particularly impresses with its comprehensive coverage of the series' evolution, while the Mega Man edition provides a broader sampling of Capcom's arcade excellence.

Access to 500+ Evercade games

The dual cartridge system transforms the Alpha from a dedicated Capcom machine into a versatile retro gaming powerhouse. The extensive Evercade library currently features:

• Over 50 officially licensed cartridges
• More than 500 classic games
• Three distinct collection types:
  • Arcade (Purple spine)
  • Console (Red spine)
  • Home computer (Blue spine)

What sets the Alpha apart is its seamless integration with this ecosystem. The ability to hot-swap cartridges means you can transition from Street Fighter to your favorite console classics without any complicated setup or configuration. This plug-and-play approach maintains the spirit of classic gaming while offering modern convenience.

Emulation quality

The emulation performance on the Alpha demonstrates Evercade's commitment to authenticity. Games run smoothly with precise timing – crucial for titles like Street Fighter that demand frame-perfect inputs. The system offers several display options to enhance the experience:

• Pixel Perfect mode for authentic aspect ratios
• Optional scan lines for that classic CRT feel
• Customizable display bezels
• Save state functionality for game progression

The emulation particularly shines with arcade titles, where the combination of authentic controls and accurate reproduction creates an experience that closely mirrors the original hardware. The system handles both action-intensive games and more methodical titles with equal proficiency.

Hidden games and monthly free game

Beyond the standard library, the Alpha includes several features that add significant value to the package. The Game of the Month program provides:

• Free access to new indie games
• Monthly rotation of titles
• Complete games available for the full month
• Future physical release in the Indie Heroes Collection

The system also includes a secret game feature, accessible through special codes shared through official Evercade communities. This creates an engaging treasure hunt aspect, reminiscent of the classic gaming era when discovering hidden content was part of the experience.

The built-in WiFi connectivity ensures regular firmware updates and access to these digital features. The Library feature allows users to browse the complete Evercade catalog, sorting games by genre to help plan future cartridge purchases. This combination of physical and digital content delivery creates a dynamic platform that continues to offer new experiences long after the initial purchase.

The game organization system deserves special mention, featuring an intuitive interface that tracks your gaming history and allows quick access to recently played titles. The ability to sort the complete catalog by genre makes it simple to discover new games that match your interests, whether you're looking for platformers, shoot 'em ups, or classic RPGs.




The Evercade Alpha stands as a remarkable achievement in retro gaming hardware, masterfully blending classic arcade authenticity with modern refinements. Its premium build quality, professional-grade controls, and dual cartridge system create an exceptional gaming experience that appeals to both casual players and dedicated enthusiasts. The extensive library of 500+ games, combined with excellent emulation quality and thoughtful features like save states and display options, delivers on the promise of bringing authentic arcade gaming home.

This bar-top arcade system represents more than just another retro gaming device – it showcases how classic gaming can evolve without losing its essential charm. The Alpha's success lies in its attention to detail, from the authentic feel of its controls to the carefully curated game selection, proving that modern technology can enhance rather than diminish the nostalgia of arcade gaming. Whether reliving Capcom classics or discovering new favorites through the monthly game program, the Evercade Alpha offers a compelling platform that honors gaming's past while embracing contemporary convenience.