We are all kids at heart, which means not every night in Birmingham needs to be spent exploring the best canalside bars. Instead, there is a growing demand for gaming arcades around the Second City, as they have grown in prominence among gamers and those looking to have a good night out with friends with a competitive nature about it.
There is an excellent selection of gaming arcades around Birmingham nowadays, and some of the best that you can expect to find around the city can be found below.
F1 Arcade
One of Birmingham’s newest additions to their already wide selection of gaming arcades is the F1 Arcade. The arcade features 53 racing motion simulators that are guaranteed to bring your competitive side out. whether you’re a pro driver or not the simulators offer different skill levels making these games fun for everyone to play. Not only is it ideal for an evening of games but they also offer a delicious range of cocktails and foods making this the perfect night out. If you don’f fancy playing then the Arcade also hold Watch Parties where many F1 lovers gather to watch the racing on huge screens with live commentary.
This experience starts at £15.95 per person and is a fantastic date night idea or something fun to do with mates on the weekend.
2 Chamberlain Sq, Birmingham B3 3AX
Matrix Virtual Reality
One of the most interesting developments concerning the gaming industry in recent years has been the introduction of Virtual Reality. This gaming style is often not the most attainable for all, which means that the Matrix Virtual Reality arcade is one of the most exciting in the second city. Instead of paying for the £2,000-worth of kit for yourself, you can play some of the best games on the market at the arcade. The arcade is constantly changing too, and big developments are coming in the future with the introduction of the VR Cinema. Now, customers can explore the VR Gaming options available.
However, all those looking to visit must book up in advance to avoid disappointment. There is a range of games available to play here, including single player titles such as Project Cars 2, Onward, and some simulator games too. The price of the experience differs depending on the number attending. prices start at £25 an hour for one or two players, then £75 for three or four players, and £125 for five to eight players.
Fun Station
If you have ever been to StarCity and are an avid gamer, then the chances are that you have already been to Fun Station. The establishment is one of the most beloved arcades in the Second City, and is open daily from midday until 10 pm, while it is it open until 11 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. There are games for everyone at Fun Station, including carnival, arcade, and dodgems.
Players are able to collect tickets by playing on the games, and walk away with prizes before they leave. You can start playing for as little as £1 at Fun Station, as this gives you four tokens. Meanwhile, those looking to stay for an extended period can pay £15 or £25 for 80 and 140 tokens, respectively. If you haven’t already got yourself down to Fun Station, then you’re missing out on an enjoyable experience.
Star City Leisure Park, 32 Watson Rd, Nechells, Birmingham B7 5SA
Lane 7
One arcade option for the adult market is Lane 7. This is the place to go for a night full of fun activities and with the new Lane 7 location opening up right next to new street station there is no excuse for not visiting. After 7 pm, only guests over the age of 18 are able to enter, while under 18s can enter the establishment before the 7 pm curfew, but an adult must accompany them. There are a number of different packages available for visitors, with the bowling being the most popular. To play at a peak time, customers must pay £11, while the off-peak price is £8.50 per player. There is also a beer pong available which starts at £17.
Shuffleboard is another extremely popular selection, with players able to use the table for £18. Lane 7 covers bases that others can only dream of. This is further highlighted by the karaoke packages that are available. Arcade players will also be in luck as a wide selection of games is available. Hugely popular titles such as PacMan and Tetris can both be played among others. To avoid disappointment, all visitors that are looking to attend Lane 7 must book in advance, with the weekends being the most popular days of the week to visit. However, all who pay Lane 7 a visit can have an enjoyable night.
