Vibrant fashion, iconic music, eye-catching hairstyles, and neon colours are some of the defining features of the 1980s. It was also the golden age of arcade video games, with some of the world’s most recognisable characters coming to life.
Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, and Space Invaders shaped countless childhoods during the decade. These iconic games, along with many others, have now been brought back to life at MyPath, following the creation of an arcade console by clients from the Skill Development and ICT programs.
Over the past few months, clients from Skill Development and ICT have collaborated to design and create their own console, with guidance from disability support workers Graeme Bailey and Mark Krueger.
Driven by their passion for arcade games, Graeme and Mark came up with the idea to launch this exciting project with clients late last year. Much like a typical video game, the most enjoyable part of the project was the journey.
“There was never a deadline to complete the project. It was all about both programs working together and having fun,” Graeme said.
After seeing the arcade console for the first time, it would be easy to mistake it for a gaming system that is traditional bought from the store.
Graeme explained that Skill Development helped create the console’s exterior by cutting it into shape, sanding it down, drilling holes, and painting it, while ICT focused on all the internal components, such as wiring and software.
“Everyone enjoyed being involved in the project. They all played a key role in how the console was designed and decorated. Our job as staff is to support the clients to do as much as they can, and then fill in the gaps when help is needed," Graeme said.
Created from scratch after sourcing designs online, the final product catches the eye with its colourful lights and iconic arcade sounds. Mark said the console, decorated with stickers of famous gaming characters, contains over 2,000 games for clients to enjoy.
The arcade console has already made a positive impact, providing a space where clients, including those with behaviours of concern, can engage in a fun and therapeutic experience. It’s become a place of connection, laughter, and shared joy.
At MyPath, this project not only highlights the power of collaboration and creativity but also serves as a reminder of the simple way video games can bring people of all ages and abilities together.
