More than 100 rare and exotic amusement machines will go under the hammer with no reserve when Donington Auctions hosts an online sale on Sunday 5 October.
The collection comes from the much-loved Arcade Garage, part of the Welcome to Thornbury precinct, which was Australia’s largest retro games venue and a popular destination for gamers of all ages. The machines, used daily and serviced regularly, represent some of the most iconic titles from the late twentieth century.
With the venue closing its doors due to a change in ownership circumstances, collectors and nostalgic gamers are being offered what organisers call a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” to secure original arcade classics.
“Like a step back into our childhood and the ‘Timezone’ arcades of the ‘90s, this collection of retro amusement machines is truly amazing, and will bring back many memories,” Robbie Richards from Donington Auctions said.
“Significantly, all these machines are being sold without a reserve price, so this is probably a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to buy a piece of your childhood at potentially a bargain price.”
Among the highlights is Shooting Zone (Lot 104), one of fewer than a dozen believed to exist worldwide. The game, which runs Master System cartridges, has previously sold for as much as $10,000. Other headline lots include original examples of Mortal Kombat, NBA Jam, Daytona USA and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
In total, 193 lots will be offered. Alongside the machines themselves, the auction also features rare circuit boards and spare parts vital for maintaining and restoring vintage arcade games, making it a drawcard for collectors and operators alike.
Buyers will have the chance to test selected machines prior to the auction at the Arcade Garage, or inspect them at Donington’s headquarters in Dingley.
Full details, including registration and lot previews, are available via doningtonauctions.com.au.
