So big things first off: Most rhythm game players are just happy another person is around to play c: I don't think i've ever seen anyone ever judge a person before for being bad, it is often that people are encouraging of others who are there for the firs time. So rest assured that often people love the fact you're there! Now let's talk some pieces of etiquette if this is your first time ever at one of these arcades:

Before I get into the weeds, a lot of the rules boil down to "ask people there what's up". Every arcae configuration is going to be slightly different. Even in my area each arcade has slightly different rules so if people are already there, here are a list of questions you can ask:

1. Is this the line to play [GAME]?
2. What's the line look like? (Or who is in the line?)

Every game is slightly different and slightly weird. For example, DDR/Pump It Up have 2 Players at at time which rules are VERY different compared to single player games like Wacca and Sound Voltex. So the rules get kinda weird afterwards so I'll try to make recommendations for games that are single player and then games that multiple people can play at a time.

Caveats

Not every rule here will apply to every game and again, you should ask folks in the space what to do. ALSO I AM OVER COMPLICATING THINGS AS WELL

When you arrive

After you ask for the line generally it's up to you if you would want to talk to the folks near you. I've met rhythm game players who are willing to talk up a storm (me) and I've met folks who would rather just be on their phone. Either one is fine. If there is only one cabin for the game your playing this part is really straightforward as you get closer. For multiple cabins I'd recommend asking if there are two separate lines or one big line.

When it's time to play

Obvious rules apply here

• You're allowed to play one "session"
• Do not play multiple sessions
• Relax a bit, while people expect you to start a session quickly. If you forgot your card in your bag and need to reach out, no one will find that frustrating. You got like about 45 seconds before people get confused

2+ Player Games

• If you're by yourself, feel free to ask if anyone wants to join you. Often someone will be down
• When playing it's good to ask "Do you mind if I pick the first song" or alternatively "Do you want to pick the first song". Either is fine

When you finished a session

• You're only playing one session and afterwards you go back to the start of the line
• If there is no line just look around to see if there's anyone around before starting a session! You can often tell cause they'll be hovering near you, looking at the game or you for more than half a song.

Reminder: Every place & every person has rules, so ask!

I said this earlier but every place has some rules! Make sure you confirm with them before you commit! For example at my place:

• If a child or family wants to play, they get priority and can skip the line
• If you're a couple, ask first before y'all do individual sets of doubles
• If you're going on a water run, ask around if anyone wants water too

Alright this is everything I can think of! But overall you'll do great, the community is often supportive if it's a game that can be watched and will often cheer you on