Arcade machine as household compromise

So you're not willing to share your abode with a full-size arcade machine? Wimp. If you're the type who does things only halfway--or if you just want to stay happily married--you might be interested in this model instead.

The "Katana" from Dream Authentics is a customizable game machine that's intended to replicate the arcade experience of our misspent youth, save for one difference: It sits on a table top. The purist might object to this, as it's kind of like playing craps while sitting on a barstool; but if you're short on space (or just plain lazy), it might be a good compromise. Despite its truncated size, it still has a 17-inch flat screen, two speakers with subwoofer and, best of all, more than 200 licensed arcade games.

The Katana isn't cheap but could save a decent chunk of change in the end. SlashGear says it goes for $2,495, but that's still a lot less than than something like a $19,000 Ford simulator. Plus, we're all about maintaining peace in your household.