Back to school is almost here! For many, this means work and kids going back to class, but it’s also the perfect opportunity to get back into retro gaming. This year, like last year, Recalbox is launching a new arcade challenge every 15 days starting on September 1st, with an all-new format!

The first season of the One Credit Challenge, running from September 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, will feature 20 arcade games, with two challenges per month (from the 1st to the 15th and from the 16th to the last day). Shoot ’em ups, beat ’em ups, sports, racing, platformers, puzzle games… there’s something for every taste.

Participation & Ranking

You don’t have to play every game to join the season — play at your own pace. Every 15 days, at the end of each challenge, a ranking will be calculated based on scores. The top player will win a game from a list of around 100 titles (as long as they haven’t won one in the past three months; otherwise, the prize goes to the next in line).

Points are awarded based on your ranking (see the table below) and accumulate throughout the season. On June 30th, the overall ranking will crown the champion of Season 1 of the One Credit Challenge.

The champion will choose between a RGB Dual 2 or a one-year Recalbox Patreon subscription.

Challenge Rules

The rules remain the same as last year: each score must be achieved with a single credit. No save states, rewind, or cheats are allowed. Exploiting glitches to artificially inflate scores is also prohibited, ensuring fair play for all participants (gentlemen’s agreement).

Scores should be shared on the #challenges channel of our Discord server as follows:
Photo of your score screen + your username + your score.
You can also share tips, strategies, and discuss games — the main goal is to play together, discover new titles, and celebrate our shared passion.

Open to Everyone

You can participate on any platform — arcade cabinet, TV, handheld console… no matter your skill level. As they say: come as you are! The goal is to have fun, but be warned — arcade gaming can be addictive!

See you on September 1st, and for any questions, head to the #challenges channel!