Zaxxon: The Isometric Arcade Classic That Changed the Game at Arcade 92

Zaxxon: The Isometric Arcade Classic That Changed the Game at Arcade 92

Back in the early 1980s, the arcade world was booming with creativity and innovation. Among the wave of legendary titles, Zaxxon stood out for one major reason: it was the first arcade game to use isometric projection, giving players a unique pseudo-3D experience unlike anything seen before. Developed and released by Sega in 1982, Zaxxon broke the mold of typical side-scrolling shooters by introducing angled gameplay that required a new level of depth perception and control.

In Zaxxon, players pilot a spacecraft as it flies through heavily defended space fortresses. The mission? Avoid enemy fire, shoot down turrets, and survive the treacherous gauntlet of moving barriers and missile silos. What made it especially challenging—and fun—was mastering your altitude, which was crucial for navigating obstacles and dodging enemy attacks. Altitude was shown via a shadow beneath the ship and a fuel gauge, which added another strategic layer to the fast-paced action.

Fun Fact #1: The name Zaxxon is a mash-up of the words "z-axis" (referring to the depth dimension used in isometric projection) and "axon" (a nod to sci-fi sounding tech). The unique name mirrored the innovative gameplay style, which relied heavily on moving in a diagonal axis instead of the traditional up-down or left-right movement seen in most shooters of that era.

Fun Fact #2: The arcade cabinet for Zaxxon featured a joystick and a single fire button, but its standout design was its eye-catching graphics and futuristic art that drew players in from across the arcade. Once players tried it, they quickly discovered the game wasn’t just flashy—it was tough, addictive, and wildly different from other shooters on the market.

Fun Fact #3: Zaxxon was such a hit in arcades that it was ported to nearly every home console and computer of the time, including the Atari 2600, Commodore 64, and ColecoVision. Its success helped cement Sega's reputation as a major innovator in the arcade space and paved the way for even more complex and creative shooter titles down the line.

Though over 40 years old, Zaxxon remains a fan favorite among retro gaming enthusiasts. It’s a time capsule of 1980s arcade innovation—and if you're lucky, you can still find a working cabinet in some classic arcade bars today.

Arcade 92: The Ultimate Arcade, Restaurant, and Cocktail Bar Experience

If you're searching for a unique blend of nostalgia, great food, and modern fun, look no further than Arcade 92—the top destination when you’re looking for an arcade near me. Located in Historic Downtown McKinney, this venue is more than just a place to play video games—it’s a full entertainment experience.

As both a restaurant and cocktail bar, Arcade 92 offers a curated menu of delicious bites and craft cocktails that perfectly complement the high-energy atmosphere. Whether you're sipping on a signature drink or enjoying some classic comfort food, there’s something for every taste. But let’s be real—the main event is the games.

Arcade 92 houses over 100 classic and modern arcade games, from Pac-Man to the latest multiplayer racing and rhythm games. You'll also find rows of beautifully maintained pinball machines, each with their own unique themes and challenges. It's the perfect spot for fans of retro titles and newcomers discovering the magic of arcades for the first time.

Planning a night out? Arcade 92 hits the sweet spot between adult arcade and family activities near me. Bring your kids for a wholesome day of fun, or round up your friends for a night of nostalgic gaming and cocktails. If you’re organizing a company outing, Arcade 92 even hosts team building events where coworkers can bond over games and friendly competition.

With its lively environment, unbeatable game selection, and welcoming vibe, Arcade 92 is a must-visit for anyone seeking things to do in McKinney. Whether you’re into video games, good eats, or just want to unwind with a great drink, Arcade 92 checks all the boxes for kids activities near me and grown-up fun alike.

Explore Historic Downtown McKinney and Visit Arcade 92’s Prime Location

Arcade 92 isn’t just a hidden gem—it’s at the heart of all the action in Historic Downtown McKinney, surrounded by some of the city’s most popular hangout spots. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, you’ll find that Arcade 92 is located near a cluster of fantastic restaurants, bars, and venues that make it the perfect anchor for a day or night out on the town.

You’ll find The Yard, an outdoor beer garden-style restaurant just steps away from Arcade 92. With its open-air seating and casual vibe, it’s a great spot to grab a bite before heading over to the arcade. For more laid-back drinks and grub, The Garage and The Pub are also right around the corner—offering plenty of variety whether you're in the mood for burgers, brews, or whiskey flights.

Looking for something sweet to top off your gaming session? Layered, a boutique bakery and coffee shop nearby, is a great place to unwind with pastries and lattes after you’ve tackled high scores and bonus rounds. And if you're in the mood for an upscale dining experience, Rick’s Chop House is a local institution, known for its fine steaks and romantic ambiance—making it a perfect option for date nights before or after a visit to Arcade 92.

All of this makes Arcade 92 not just a destination in itself, but part of a vibrant community experience. With so many unique spots within walking distance, you can easily build a full-day adventure around your visit. Enjoy a meal, crush some arcade games, sip a cocktail, and explore everything that Historic Downtown McKinney has to offer.

So whether you’re planning a fun outing, a spontaneous date night, or just searching for awesome things to do in McKinney, Arcade 92’s location puts you in the center of it all.