Beercade: Arcade Cabinet That Gives Beer to Winner
Video games and drinking have always been closely linked, but it wasn’t until now that someone actually combined the two favorite pastimes with Beercade, a two-player arcade cabinet that rewards the winner with a beer. We can all begin collectively kicking ourselves for not thinking of this earlier (or maybe you did think of it and just never went about making it happen. In which case you can kick yourself twice.)
The rather ingenious premise was brought to life by ad agency McKinney as part of its campaign for Big Boss Brewing Company. The game powering the beer-dispensing cabinet is The Last Barfighter, a promotional 2D fighting game for Big Boss (the brewery, not the Metal Gear character, sadly). Players take on the role of one of five mascots representing a different brew, then engage in a bar fight. Whoever emerges victorious in best out of three rounds is awarded a sample of beer.
The cabinet itself has been retrofitted for its new purpose, and its coin slots have been replaced with a drip tray, while it uses cup holders and motion sensors in place of quarters. “When we started, we were looking for a way for retro arcade machines to once again gain a following,” said Adam Carroll, a creative technologist at McKinney.
“I grew up playing video games, and I remember lining up at the old arcades, stacking quarters, just to show off my virtual fighting skills,” said Owen Tingle, an associate creative director. “I think it’s a nostalgic experience that many people can relate to… And I’ve also come to appreciate the craftsmanship and skill it takes to make good-tasting beer. So, to combine these two passions into a unique experience that others can enjoy was truly amazing.”
As for where one can play Beercade, it seems that it will only be available at promotional events and fundraisers for charities, so one can rest assured that their drinking is for a good cause. “We plan to feature The Last Barfighter at events that help raise funds and awareness for our charitable partners in the communities we serve,” explained Dave Roger, marketing and distribution manager for Big Boss Brewing.
Although The Last Barfighter itself doesn’t look particularly captivating, one can’t help but wonder about the possibilities McKinney has unleashed if this idea catches on with other, more notable games. I’m not sure if this will ever happen due to practical and perhaps legal considerations, but a guy can dream, can’t he?
