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Independent Arcades

So many games,
so many events.

Arcades aren’t a relic of the past, they’re real and popular community spaces for people that enjoy retro-style gaming.

With tons of cabinets (the big boxes arcade games live on) that have easy to learn instructions, this are vibrant places with activities to do.

They often host tournaments related to a few of these games as well as retro-adjacent events. Read more about them below.

Cabinets

Cabinets are definitely rarer than they once were. And they take up a ton of space -- which is why arcades are a double win. They get a home and you get to play a huge variety of games.
Some arcades specialize in the classics: pac-man, galaga. Other's do fighting games, imported from Japan. Other's create their own or host independent creators.

Bar

Arcades typically have a bar area where you can grab a drink to bring with you to the cabinets.
It's a great way to mesh a classic night out with games to play. Many of these bars also now serve non-alcoholic drinks, often times tastier than the alcoholic verions. We encourage you to grab a drink if you can, it's the best way to support these arcades.

Tournaments & Events

Arcades are home to some of the most devoted fanbases for retro games. And arcades cater towards giving these folks a place to play.
You'll find weekly and monthly tournaments for fighting games, team games, music games. You just have to ask what's coming up. Then from there you can ask to join!
Events at arcades typically revolve around retro gaming. But that doesn't mean you have to be a follower of the interest.

They may bring together game developers to hang out and chat. Music nights to showcase new artists in the area. Or simply just a party in an arcade.

Brooklyn Games & Arcade even does an annual summer barbeque!

Cabinets are just the start. Follow your local arcade to see what events are coming up.

Hangout after work.
Dive into a weekend event.

Check out how one independent arcade sets themselves up!

Location
Brooklyn Games & Arcade

Year
2024

Entrance - Here’s where you check in! Most arcades nowadays operate by hour. They’ll let you know the price and then you head on in. You usually pay when you leave. They also offer day passes where you can play as long as you like for the day — you can even leave and come back.

Cabinets - Some of the many cabinets. Brooklyn Games & Arcade cabinets mainly focus on classic fighting games: Marvel vs Capcom, Neo Geo, First Strike, etc.