Update.
I ordered game room solutions kit with sanwa sticks. I used a raspberry pi 3 - retropie. I used it that was just to get it up and running. Now almost a year later I finally spent a weekend working to make it look much better.
Phase 1 completed - just get the thing running. I did that right away. As stated above. Just for the money curious folks out there, I will keep a tally going.
Partially finished cab with monitor - $100
Rasberry pi 3 - $40
Button/Joystick bundler $105
Total for a working system - $245
Phase 2 rebuild the control panel. A coworker cut 1/4 ply along with small 1x2 for framing it. I went to lowes and had some plexi cut. I also had bezel cut from the sheet and marquee; for next phase. I bought mario world poster online.
I picked a button layout from slagcoin. I printed out the size I wanted and taped it to the panel. I mounted plexi with holes in four corners. Then drilled the rest of the holes using step bit. First time with a step bit. It was much easier than I thought. I know a lot of panels are from 3/8 or 1/2 particle board. But, for me, framing the 1/4" play and overlaying with plexi made it easy to work with and plenty stiff.
I wired buttons, joysticks and LEDs. Then I attached to the cabinet with a hinge.
I also attached the power strip to the back. Before it was just sloppy. Cleaner look. A bit more pro looking.
I mounted the pie to the cabinet using velcro strips. Before I just let it hand inside. Very ghetto I know.
Step bit - $35
Plexi - $55
Artwork - $10
Mod Hodge, hinges, velcro and fasteners - $30
Total at this point - $375
So that is where I am at this point.