I've been playing with the idea of doing a pedestal cabinet that would use a projector, but also have a monitor embedded in the control panel. In normal mode, it would have the marquees and/or instructions for games. In a pinch (no place to project) it would be used for play. I would use a 22" monitor which would be under plexi.
I've sketched a couple themes...one being steampunk (I feel like I've already done this so probably wouldn't do this). The other is an idea I've had for one based on vintage space program stuff...using the "skeleton astronaut" concept. The helmet would be inside the column...lit with some spooky lighting.
Here are the rough sketches and a render of the control panel top...it would be 48" wide and 22" high.
I would use lit buttons and trackball...possibly joysticks.