Remember the good old days when gaming wasn’t about 4K graphics, high-definition audio and a never-ending stream of downloads? Whether it was the satisfying clunk of a coin going into a machine, the warm, comforting glow of a pixelated game screen, or the simple pleasures of button-mashing until your fingers ached, arcade gaming has a special place in many of our readers’ hearts.
If you’re yearning for a hit of gaming nostalgia, Newcastle has you covered. Whether you’re a Pac-Man pro, a Street Fighter champion or you’re intrigued to sample some of the retro games the oldies enjoyed in their younger years, this quartet of arcade venues will transport you to gaming’s golden age.
NQ64 Arcade Bar
If neon lights, craft beers and a healthy dose of classic arcade games under one roof appeals, head on over to NQ64 Arcade Bar. Situated in the heart of the city centre, it’s within easy reach for anyone living in and around Newcastle. This place fuses retro gaming with a trendy nightlife vibe. Last summer, it treated locals to a top-tier drinks menu, with many hoping this returns in the coming months.
There’s heaps of vintage arcade cabinets to choose from here, from Tetris to Space Invaders. The latter remains a hugely popular gaming franchise, despite originating from Japan in 1978. This shoot ‘em up classic has recently received a new jolt in popular culture. That’s thanks largely to the launch of officially licensed slot titles, with online slots like Space Invaders Win and Spin proving a hit at leading iGaming platforms licensed by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC).
There’s also plenty of classic games consoles at the venue, all set up for unlimited play once you’ve paid for your game tokens. Whether you want to challenge your mates to a round of Mortal Kombat or dive into a nostalgia-inducing session of Time Crisis, NQ64 delivers in spades.
Four Quarters
Four Quarters is another top addition to the retro gaming scene of Newcastle. Named after the iconic arcade tradition of lining up four quarters on a machine to reserve your next turn, Four Quarters encapsulates the spirit of the vintage gaming scene.
There’s an epic choice of original arcade cabinets which have been well cared for and, in some places, lovingly restored. There’s Donkey Kong, Street Fighter II and even Crazy Taxi. It’s one of the best locations for a social gaming session in the city.
Four Quarters have teamed up with a string of local breweries to offer plenty of local beverages and cocktails, not to mention fresh pizzas, as well as multiple vegetarian and vegan alternatives. Private and corporate hire packages are available at the Dean Street location, available at a minimum spend of £1,000 if you’re booking for a peak session (Thurs-Sat evenings).
YuMe World Newcastle
If you’re looking for an arcade experience that’s fun for all the family, YuMe World is the perfect pick. Located in The Gate, YuMe World Newcastle offers the perfect blend of old and new arcade games.
The retro section includes all the classics like Pac-Man, Space Invaders and Tetris. Meanwhile the more contemporary area of machines delivers immersive experiences for those who are happy to mix things up a little and dive into what current gaming technology can offer.
Unlike some of the venues listed here, which focus on the bar element, YuMe World is all about the gaming. On top of the vintage offerings, there’s a huge variety on offer here, from rhythm games to claw machines and racing simulators.
The CTRL Pad
YuMe World Newcastle is a bigger, bolder arcade gaming venue, but The CTRL Pad offers a more intimate setting in Newcastle. Also based in The Gate, The CTRL Pad is a dedicated venue which focuses on retro gaming, as well as 21st century console and desktop gaming.
There is a friendly atmosphere here, with new players always welcome. The venue regularly hosts competitions and tournaments for some of the newer, trendier game titles. Alternatively, you can kick back and immerse yourself in some of the timeless classics like Tekken and platform hits such as Sonic the Hedgehog.
There’s a reason arcade games continue to capture hearts decades after their release—their simplicity is their strength. No complicated tutorials, no endless updates—just pure, engaging gameplay that anyone in the Newcastle area can pick up and enjoy.