New use for bit parts in old style arcade gaming

GAME BOY: Jorge Araque recycles computer parts to create retro gaming machines from his Wanganui base.PICTURE/BEVAN CONLEY 210813WCBRCGAMES01

What began as an after-work project has evolved into a key string to Jorge Araque's business bow.

Four years ago, Mr Araque set up Mancuza and at that time set himself a challenge of building an arcade gaming machine in his spare time.

A qualified industrial engineer by trade, his after-work hobby struck a chord with friends. Soon one asked him to build an arcade machine, then another and then others.

Initially based in Christchurch, he and his partner moved to Auckland after the earthquakes.

"But I'm a small city boy, so we shifted first to Masterton and now to Wanganui. We like it here," he said.

He said sales had been "very good" with each unit retailing for $490.

It meant Mr Araque gave up his full-time job and shifted to Wanganui to continue making the arcade replicas.

"The arcade machines, from the cabinets to the circuits, are New Zealand-made and all assembled here in Wanganui. For example, the melamine-covered boards used in the cabinets come from Wanganui's Kitchen Contours," he said.

"The computers and screens used for the machines are often "saved" after businesses upgrade their systems. It makes for a very sustainable way of re-using computers and screens."

Mr Araque said the finished product could contain thousands of games from the 1970s through to 2004 including the popular classics such as Donkey Kong, Pac Man, Street Fighter, Frogger, Invaders and thousands more.

He is marketing them as "the perfect addition to any lounge, bedroom, garage or man-cave".

"They also have a jukebox feature that lets you add MP3 music files and dance the night away."

Mancuza has gained a central city location moving into 1a Victoria Ave. From here Mr Araque will promote the game machines. He will also offer computer repairs, upgrades, second-hand computers, computer screens and IT consultancy for medium-sized businesses.

He said eventually he would like to expand the business and moved into bigger premises, increasing production of the game machines and taking on staff.

Mancuza is open from 9.30am-5.30pm Monday to Friday and 10am-1.30pm Saturday.