What do a miniature mansion, an alien, and a nuclear reactor have in common? They are all arcade machines created by English engineer, cartoonist, and writer Tim Hunkin. His two arcade halls are packed with hand-built models designed to entertain not with action, adventure, or simulation, but with a very particular sense of humor.
Between Nostalgia and DIY
Just as some classic consoles are making a comeback, the arcade market is trying to regain traction with modern variants of unforgettable classics. At the same time, enthusiasts are undertaking Herculean rescue efforts to save old systems from humidity and oblivion, with extraordinary results. However, there is a third type of arcade: the DIY. The most common projects are based on a Raspberry Pi and emulation platforms, but if you have the chance to visit England—specifically Suffolk or London—you should check out the two halls maintained by Tim Hunkin.
Who Is Tim Hunkin?
Who is Tim Hunkin? First, he created the educational series The Secret Life of Machines, which in the late '80s and early '90s taught the secrets of different machines and household appliances, including vacuum cleaners, televisions, VCRs, and quartz clocks. He also had a connection to the rock world, handling the pyrotechnics (with flying pigs and sheep) during Pink Floyd's In the Flesh tour, which promoted their album Animals in 1976. But what brings us here today are his arcade machines. One lets you "fly" a drone around a mansion to see the silly things celebrities do. Another features a giant robot that inspects you like a police officer. Then there's a podiatrist (?) where you basically insert your foot, and my favorite, "My-Nuke: Personal Nuclear Reactor," which rewards you with candy after causing a nuclear accident.
Tim Hunkin's Self-Description
All the machines serve to explore Hunkin's colorful personality. He describes himself as an artist "for tax reasons" and an engineer "when he wants to escape awkward conversations at a party." His creations are published all over the web, with talks, interviews, and the occasional tutorial.
