What you need to build your own retro arcade cabinet

Choose a Raspberry Pi model based on game demands: a 2 GB Pi 5 (~$65) runs classic titles; demanding games may require an older PC with Batocera. Required parts include a display, joystick, buttons, USB encoder, speakers, and power supply. Cabinet choices are plywood/MDF build, flat-pack purchase, or repurposed case, with accessories (mounts, storage, cooling, décor) bringing total cost to about $270 before a monitor.