Moon Patrol: An 80s Arcade Classic that Pioneered Scrolling Games at Arcade 92
- Arcade92FlowerMound
- Apr 16
- 4 min read

Moon Patrol: An 80s Arcade Classic that Pioneered Scrolling Games at Arcade 92
Back in 1982, the world of arcade gaming saw a new kind of challenge take over screens: Moon Patrol. Developed by Irem and licensed to Williams Electronics for North American distribution, this futuristic side-scrolling shooter was among the first of its kind to implement parallax scrolling—a visual technique that gave layers of background and foreground depth and motion, making it a groundbreaking visual experience for its time.
In Moon Patrol, players take control of a lunar buggy traversing the treacherous terrain of the moon's surface. The player must jump over craters, dodge mines, shoot down alien spaceships, and destroy roadside tanks—all while racing against a ticking timer. The screen continuously scrolls from left to right, forcing players to think fast and adapt to increasingly difficult sections of the map, marked as checkpoints labeled from A to Z.
One of the coolest features in Moon Patrol was its split-screen radar at the top of the screen, which showed incoming threats from both land and air—a unique element that added a strategic twist and heightened tension. It gave players a heads-up view of what's to come, a rare but welcome advantage in the arcade world.
Here’s a fun fact: Moon Patrol is one of the earliest arcade games to feature background music that dynamically changes depending on gameplay intensity—a nod to the cinematic flair that would become more common in later games.
Another fun tidbit? The game was so popular, it made its way into early home console ports, like the Atari 2600 and Commodore 64, although these versions didn’t quite capture the rich visual flair of the arcade original.
Whether you were mastering jumps in 1982 or discovering it for the first time today, Moon Patrol remains a nostalgic treasure and a symbol of the early innovation in arcade gaming.
Level Up at Arcade 92: The Ultimate Retro-Modern Arcade Experience
Looking for the best arcade near me? Enter the world of Arcade 92, where nostalgia meets next-gen entertainment. This isn't just another arcade—it's a restaurant, cocktail bar, and gaming wonderland rolled into one. Whether you're after old-school favorites like Pac-Man, action-packed arcade games, or classic pinball machines, Arcade 92 delivers an unforgettable experience for gamers of all ages.
Located in Grapevine and Flower Mound, Arcade 92 is redefining family activities near me and kids activities near me by offering more than just games. Enjoy craft cocktails, shareable bites, and even locally brewed beers as you compete, laugh, and relive your favorite arcade memories. It’s a fantastic spot for a night out, date night, or even just a break from the ordinary.
And for those looking to blend fun and productivity, Arcade 92 specializes in team building events that keep everyone energized and engaged. Corporate groups, birthdays, and bachelor parties all find a home here in the electric atmosphere of this adult arcade. Want to play side-by-side with your coworkers on a round of Pac-Man Battle Royale or tag team on a four-player arcade shooter? Arcade 92 has the setup—and the vibes—for it all.
Whether you’re into video games, pinball, or simply love a unique arcade bar that treats you to retro charm and modern flair, Arcade 92 hits the jackpot every time. So next time you're searching for a fun night out, make sure Arcade 92 is at the top of your list.
Explore the Heart of Grapevine: Where to Find Arcade 92
Arcade 92 is conveniently located in the heart of Grapevine, Texas—a prime location for both locals and visitors looking to unwind with food, drinks, and games. Whether you're planning a family outing or a weekend escape, Arcade 92 is just minutes away from some of the area's most iconic attractions.
Just a short drive from Great Wolf Lodge, Arcade 92 is a perfect post-waterpark destination where the fun doesn’t have to stop. If you’re exploring the imaginative and immersive world of Meow Wolf, keep the creativity flowing by diving into the colorful arcade adventures that Arcade 92 offers.
Travelers flying in or out of DFW Airport will love the convenience of stopping by Arcade 92—ideal for those long layovers or early arrivals. Even better, we’re located near Grapevine Mills, a massive shopping destination with outlet stores, dining options, and movie theaters. After a shopping spree, Arcade 92 offers the perfect mix of relaxation and excitement.
If you're staying at or attending an event at the luxurious Gaylord Texan Resort, you’re just minutes away from the ultimate throwback gaming experience. With its retro neon, ambient lighting, and immersive vibe, Arcade 92 complements the high-end fun of the area with an energetic, nostalgic twist.
So whether you’re in town for a vacation, a business trip, or just looking for something different to do, Arcade 92’s Grapevine location puts you right in the center of it all. Stop in, grab a joystick, sip on a cocktail, and see why Arcade 92 is more than just a destination—it’s an experience.