Think back ... when was the last time (if ever) you played a classic arcade-style game like Pac-Man, Space Invaders or Centipede? Following the 2009 success of Save the Arcades, Stride today announced the program’s year two launch – Save the Arcades 2, which invites gamers to play an arcade-style game online and donate points to one of three gamer-nominated arcades competing for $25,000.

"Many iconic arcades across the country have closed their doors, leaving few places for true gamers to play the arcade classics they love," said Nipa Shah, Stride marketing manager. "We’ve launched Save the Arcades 2 to encourage fans to support this classic American pastime and ensure these incredible games won’t be forgotten."

Gamers can visit www.savethearcades.com to play Cowbots 2010, an outrageous new shooter game developed especially for Stride that pits man against "moochine." After the game is completed, players can then donate their points to one of three gamer-nominated arcade finalists from across the country. The arcade with the most points by the end of the competition – Noon ET on June 15, 2010 – will score $25,000 from Stride.

Save the Arcades 2 is the year two extension of the popular Save the Arcades program, which was launched by Stride in 2009. Arcade UFO in Austin, Texas was awarded the winner of Save the Arcades, receiving a $25,000 check from Stride. Save the Arcade 2 participants are Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade in Portland, Oreg., Rocky’s Replay in Winter Park, Fla. and Arcade Infinity in Rowland Heights, Calif.

Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade, Portland, Oreg.

Ground Kontrol was founded in 1999 and later purchased by five lifelong pinball and video game fans. The arcade keeps the classic arcade alive, both for those nostalgic for days gone by, as well as for those who have never experienced a real arcade. If Ground Kontrol wins Save the Arcades, they’ll use the money to add space to their second floor, and more classic games for everyone to enjoy.

Rocky’s Replay, Winter Park, Fla.

Since 1995, Rocky’s Replay has been a Central Florida entertainment destination for all ages. The arcade features a mix of pinballs, classic-style arcade games and the newest simulator- and racing-style games. If Rocky’s Replay wins Save the Arcades, they’ll use the money to help offset the rising cost of games, as well as purchase more retro fan favorites from the last 25 years.

Arcade Infinity, Rowland Heights, Calif.

Purchased by the current owners in 2000, Arcade Infinity is a Japanese-style arcade, importing the latest music and fighting games. If Arcade Infinity wins Save the Arcades, they’ll use the money to help keep the arcade afloat, buy new games and help fix broken arcade cabinets.