Summary of GOING AROUND IN CIRCLES WITH HOMEMADE ARCADE CLASSIC <em>CYCLONE</em>
This article describes a DIY home version of the classic arcade game Cyclone, built by Arduino enthusiast [mircemk]. The project replaces a full cabinet with an upright 3D-printed ring housing WS2812 LEDs to simulate the light racing mechanic. An Arduino controls the game logic and lighting effects, while a custom-built, durable arcade button allows players to stop the light at the correct spot.
Parts used in the Homemade Arcade Classic Cyclone:
- Arduino
- 60 WS2812 LEDs
- Upright 3D-printed ring
- 6 center LEDs for score counter
- Large homemade arcade button
The classic arcade game Cyclone has attracted many players, along with their coins, thanks to its simple yet addictive gameplay. In its most basic form it consists of a light racing around a circular track, which the player then has to stop at exactly the right place. Arduino enthusiast [mircemk] made a home version of this game, which allows addicts to keep playing forever without running out of quarters.

Instead of an arcade cabinet, this smaller version has an upright 3D-printed ring that holds 60 WS2812 LEDs. A further six in the center of the ring act as a score counter. An Arduino in the base drives the LEDs and runs the game, which is based on an earlier iteration built by [oKeeg]. An interesting addition is a large homemade “arcade button”, which is large and sturdy enough to withstand any abuse inflicted on it by a frustrated player.
Retro-style sound effects and flashing light sequences give the game a bit of an arcade vibe, even without a big cabinet and piles of coins. Simple LED games like this are always great eye-catchers in any home or office; if you like this one, be sure to check out other LED games like the handheld LEDBOY, the one-dimensional dungeon crawler TWANG, and this LED racing game.
Source: GOING AROUND IN CIRCLES WITH HOMEMADE ARCADE CLASSIC CYCLONE
- What is the main purpose of this project?
To create a home version of the classic arcade game Cyclone that allows players to keep playing forever without running out of quarters. - How does the player interact with the game?
The player must stop a light racing around a circular track at exactly the right place using a large homemade arcade button. - What type of LEDs are used in the build?
The project uses 60 WS2812 LEDs arranged in a ring and six additional LEDs in the center acting as a score counter. - Can I play this game indefinitely?
Yes, unlike the original arcade version, this home build allows addicts to keep playing forever without needing coins. - Does the project include sound effects?
Yes, retro-style sound effects and flashing light sequences are included to give the game an arcade vibe. - What component drives the LEDs and runs the game?
An Arduino located in the base drives the LEDs and runs the game logic. - Is the arcade button standard or custom?
The button is a large homemade unit designed to be sturdy enough to withstand abuse from frustrated players. - Where can I watch a video demonstration?
A video link is provided in the article showing the project in action.
