arcade reviews | Geekscape

Arcade Review DOUBLE HEADER: Coin Haus / Coin-Op

by Matthew MorrellOctober 19, 2016

Experiencing the regrowth of arcade culture first hand in San Diego is awe inspiring, especially considering that places like Coin Haus and Coin-Op Northpark have sprouted up as recent as 2013. Both of these arcades may be two sides of the same coin, but they are still distinctly different houses of play. What is clear is that they both deserve to be experienced…

"And if you haven't been, then you need to get out to these arcades." — “And if you haven’t been, then you need to get out to these arcades.”

COIN HAUS

Walking up main street La Mesa, you’ll hang a left at the top of the street onto Allison Avenue. You’ll go past a series of cute shops, wooden arches tangled in vines. You’ll hear the sounds of what could be just another artsy bar. It isn’t until you see the spray painted letters above the building that you know you’re in for something good.

"Ready Player One? Like you even have to ask." — “Ready Player One? Like you even have to ask.”

Now you’re inside, and possibly confused. Tables to the right (one with a Light Bright even), a giant orange shipping crate in front of you, and a few cabinet games to the left of you. Obviously, you go left to the games. But, you stop as someone from behind calls out, “You’ll need a wristband.”

As innovative as Coin Haus undoubtedly is, it does employ a potentially dangerous way of paying for drink and game. Simply wave your key fob attached to your wrist band, wait for the green light, and you’re set. There’s one little hitch. The wrist band doesn’t tell you how much you’ve spent. That’s not necessarily a problem if you’re even a little good at math, but there’s another minor problem in that being-good-at-math thing…

Self pour.

That giant shipping crate in the center of the arcade? Yeah, it’s filled end to end with a ludicrously large selection of brew on tap. On both sides. These aren’t your run of the mill big name brands either. Local brews, imports, fine wine, even coffee beer. If you’re not acting like the responsible adult you should be, you may totally forgot why you came here in the first place…

int-coin-haus-1 — “Here’s a hint: look behind you.”

The GAMES!

Yeah, Coin Haus has games too. Lining the back wall, a well curated collection of games from the eighties to today awaits. Activated by the same wrist band no less. Despite Joust being out of order when this reviewer was present, all the other games seemed to be in perfect order. In fact the whole place was in pristine order. Coin Haus in a sense is a micro brewery if it were owned and operated by the Mario Brothers.

There is no shame in saying Coin Haus is first and foremost one of the most innovative bars built around an arcade motif. They don’t do snacks. They don’t do specialty entrees.

They do beer, and they do it exceptionally well.

Personally, neither my wallet or liver were able to sample each and every beer, wine, (and coffee beer?) but with a self pour, and easy to use wrist band for beer and video games that is certainly an option for you.

Drink responsibly, play video games liberally, and go check out Coin Haus.

"This is the most polite way to say don't be a drunk asshole we've ever seen, so please take heed." — “This is the most polite way to say don’t be a drunk asshole we’ve ever seen, so please take heed.”

Coin-Op North Park

As one who has been through the cement hellscape that is Los Angeles, finding a prime parking spot on 30th street a stone’s throw away from Coin-Op in North Park was a pleasant surprise. Walking across Lincoln Ave toward University, there are many a cocktail lounge to stop by. But, there’s only one Coin-Op… sort of.

Before you enter, you’ll need to flash your ID. Tough luck if you’re under twenty one. This is a cocktail bar after all. Still once inside, you feel like you’ve walked into your best friend’s garage. You know the one; the friend that had the same console as you, but with all the games you didn’t have, and the snacks, and the drinks…

"Can you spot spot the Hulk serving you beer in this picture?" — “Can you spot the Hulk serving you beer in this picture?”

Coin-Op feels a lot like your best friend’s garage when you two were playing TMNT and one of you said, “Maybe we should invite So-So over?”

Then the other one of you said, “Let’s invite EVERYONE over!”

"Sure even these guys. But, if this turns into a Mario Party, may Arceus have mercy on your soul." — “Sure even these guys. But, if this turns into a Mario Party, may Arceus have mercy on your soul.”

The only wall not covered in video games is the one with the bar. We’re assuming the kitchen doesn’t have any arcade cabinets hidden back there either, but we’ll never know for sure. We only found the one change machine in the back. No key FOBs, no custom printed tokens, just quarters. There’s also a backyard with games if you need fresh air and some peace.

"Pictured: the saddest game of Jenga ever." — “Pictured: the saddest game of Jenga ever.”

In contrast with Coin Haus, Coin-Op Northpark feels and looks like a really cool party that ballooned uncontrollably into a block party. So what if that block party is crammed into a space a little bigger than a three car garage? It has everything you need. Did we not mention the games?

Or the drinks?

coin-op-drinks — “Book ’em Danno. Quoting the television show? No, I was ordering the drink.”

Now we live in a time that is truly an embarrassment of riches in geek culture. Both Houses of Coin are but two of many arcades in San Diego; all of which Geekscape will eventually visit. Even greater still, Coin-Op North Park is but one of the soon to be Coin-Op Franchise. With one already in Sacramento, and another Coin-Op soon to be opened in San Francisco, arcade culture shows no signs of slowing down. It’s spreading.

This December, when Coin-Op opens its sister property in San Fran, you better believe Geekscape will be there to cover it.

Until then, get out there, and get your game on.

Arcade Review – Start Bar STL

by Matthew MorrellOctober 11, 2016

Continuing our pursuit after the strong resurgence in arcade culture, we at Geekscape are proud to travel nationwide in support of our fellow gamers. Such is the case with Start Bar, in downtown Saint Louis, Missouri. This bar ties together the focal point of gaming culture: community. We’ll show exactly how this glorious new arcade and bar does exactly that…

THE PRESENTATION

Saint Louis has been in the headlines recently, painted as a city divided. Despite the truth to that statement, those who live and breathe in STL are still a people who value community. They value coming together over a Cardinal’s game. They come together over a cold glass of beer on an ungodly humid afternoon. They are together when it comes to a shared desire to cut through the everyday bullshit of life and seek relief. Among the historic brick buildings encompassing Busch Stadium, the answer to that relief can be found within Start Bar.

"Pressing Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right, B, A, on a very specific bricks may or may not open the secret entrance." — “Pressing Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right, B, A, on very specific bricks may or may not open the secret entrance. Which bricks? We’ll never tell…”

Just a few blocks south of Spruce Street is where the after party is. Start Bar is nestled in a brand spanking new corner of one of the many brick buildings on your way back from a Cardinals game. Much like a TARDIS, the bar appears ordinary on the outside. Still, the glow of the neon lights and thumping bass beckon you to enter.

We suggest you do.

Much like a new companion to The Doctor, your reaction is the same, “It’s much bigger on the inside,” you gasp. To your left, a bar that spans from the front of the building nearly all the way to the back. To your right, rows and rows of your favorite standup cabinets from ‘82 to today. Above you are huge vaulted ceilings barely able to contain the live music blasting from the DJ’s turntables, and shouting from the loft ahead.

The interior sports a clean club vibe. Plenty of space to breathe and tables to order a drink and food. You won’t wait long for one of the many friendly staffers to take your order or simply show you around the floor. Despite the drama, the tensions, the labors of everyday life, Start Bar sends a clear message to all who enter; you’re among friends.

"As long as you're here, how about you relieve a little tension?" — “As long as you’re here, how about you relieve a little tension?”

THE GAMES

Having been around in the Arcade Scene, we try to be objective; not measuring the quality of an arcade by the quantity of games. Let’s be honest, there’s really only the one rule when it comes to gamers and games.

"We don't dare anger such an epic beard." — “We dare not anger such an epic beard.”

Keeping with the theme of community, Start Bar has done more than load their space with more than a dozen of your favorites. They did do that, but they also went one step beyond. There is clearly deliberate move to curate their space with games that would encourage a dedicated gathering of locals to return. Their loft space with couches surrounding three console gaming stations is certainly a step in that direction. However, one game in particular caught our eye.

"Close, but not exactly." — “Close, but not exactly.”

Having first debuted back in 2013, the movement around Killer Queen is gaining tremendous momentum. Twitch streams, leagues, local tournaments, this is the game that will solidify the modern Arcade Movement. It looks like a classic from the 8-Bit era. An amalgam of Joust, Mario Brothers, and a sliver of Command and Conquer, Killer Queen is an impressive five Vs. five strategic mad house.

"Trust us, it all totally makes total sense." — “Trust us, it all totally makes sense.”

So far, Killer Queen is only found in a handful of Arcades. It is in our humble opinion that you and at least nine of your friends play it immediately. Sure, you could play two on two, but what the good folks at Start Bar realized is that coming together as a group, a team, a community brings about an invaluable gaming experience.

THE EXTRAS

We haven’t even gotten to the drinks! The food! Sweet Christmas does this place have drinks and food. Their in house chef has cooked up a slew of snacks, and most importantly mouth watering pizza that must be shared with friends to believe a taste that good could be real.

"Spoiler alert, 'Bruce Willis was Dead the Whole Time' may keep you drunk the whole time... drink responsibly, etc..." — “Spoiler alert, ‘Bruce Willis was Dead the Whole Time’ may keep you drunk the whole time… drink responsibly, etc…”

Given the length and breadth of the bar, it goes without saying that the drink selection is just as vast. This reviewer found that most drinks were poured with a liberal amount of alcohol compared to whatever they were mixed with. Not necessarily a complaint. Just a fair warning. Depending on how much of a dedicated gamer you are, you may want to keep this in mind and pace yourself.

Tuesdays and Thursdays nights (subject to change?) live music will be spun and played loudly. We had the pleasure of jamming to some deep NWA cuts from Dan Sexauer from Music Record Shop; another local STL shop worth a visit.

We also fell in love with what could only be described as the Gamer Hall of Fame Gentleman’s Formal Sitting Room complete with; plush couches, crackling fireplace, and Bowser’s head mounted on the wall.

Sitting room INT — “Pretty damn classy.”

There is also an ongoing sign up for a Killer Queen league. If you’re in the area we suggest you get on that list. If you’re debating whether or not to relocate to the greater St. Louis area, consider putting this in the top of your “Pro” column.

THE VERDICT

If you ever wondered what else besides the Gateway Arch would make a trip to Missouri worthwhile, The Start Bar is the answer. This arcade and bar is faithfully among the movement to celebrate gaming culture, and cultivate a community of gamers to come together and celebrate each other.

*Photo credit – Sara McLaren

**Thank you – Stephen Savage

Arcade Review: Los Angeles – The One Up

by Matthew MorrellJune 21, 2016

Venturing back into Los Angeles is like willingly sliding down a water-slide without any running water; excruciatingly slow, uncomfortably hot, and often physically painful. Nevertheless, there was an Arcade that needed exploring. So, away we went…

Turning East on the 101, and exiting Woodman, you may pass by what at first glance looks like any other cocktail lounge on the Ventura Avenue. Look closely at the marquee however, you’ll see it perched above the entrance: a lone Space Invader.

If you’re smart, you’d have made this journey a little after seven in the evening where the lounge is only twenty-one and up. You may also need to make reservations ahead of time as the place can get awfully crowded. However, every inch of this space is used to the fullest.

"You have a lot more bar room if you just jam your living room into the ceiling." — “You have a lot more bar room if you just jam your living room into the ceiling.”

Artistically, The One Up exists in a space if Captain-N built built a Gypsy Den in Wonderland. Pretty to look at while sober, mildly disorienting depending on how long you’ve been at the bar.

In order of function, The One Up is decidedly a cocktail lounge that also has an arcade. That’s not necessarily a negative criticism mind you. The cocktails are excellent (try the Monkey’s Brew), with a selective wine and beer menu to match. Entrees are also expertly crafted, from the mouthwatering turkey meatballs to their unbelievably savory Hawaiian pulled pork sandwich. A refined and unique style and taste has clearly been cultivated at The One Up.

These sliders lasted about as long as I do playing Dark Souls: all of them were devoured in mere seconds.

When you first step in, you’ll be asked how many in your party or if you have a reservation. If you intend on bringing a friend, definitely phone ahead. Seating is limited, but this does allow for a relaxed, intimate and cozy atmosphere.

So why a lounge first and arcade second? If you do your homework, you’ll find well over a hundred unique games. You read that right. It’s over a hundred. Also, they’re all free to play. You could be laying some serious hurt down in Mortal Kombat 4, all night long, for free… Unless you’re best friend is secretly a Mortal Kombat savant and wrecks you.

"Oh, sorry, I totally didn't know that move would disembowel you." - A Liar — “Oh, sorry, I totally didn’t know that move would disembowel you.” – A Liar

At this point, the sheer number of free games makes The One Up certainly sound like an Arcade. And you would be right. With the house lights turned low, and bright neon pink accents illuminating the game room by all intents and purpose this place is an arcade. One can’t help but consider however that the games are in service of the overall style of the lounge, and not the main attraction.

"Pictured: zero arcade games." — “Pictured: zero arcade games.”

With a name like The One Up, it certainly suggests that this particular arcade is a cut above the rest. More games? Free games! Dress code! Every square inch of the place is tailor made to look like the coolest eighties hangout there ever was. They’re even playing The Last Starfighter (1984) on one of the flatscreens for Glob’s sake!

It does certainly depend on one’s perspective on what one needs in an arcade. If you’re looking for a comfortable lounge to take a date and enjoy pristine cocktails with a delicious entree’ or two, look no further than The One Up. If you’re looking for a place that wants to showcase as many original arcade cabinets they can cram into a room, perhaps this isn’t what you’re looking for.

It’s true that The One Up will surpass most every other lounge as the most stylish, and certainly nostalgic bar on the block. Their ability to have so many classic 8-bit games is also truly impressive. But, there’s something beyond quantity and style when a place is willing to jam dozens of refrigerator sized machines into their place to allow the games to speak for themselves.

Pictured: over 100 games in this one hallway.

When you visit The One Up, and this writer strongly urges you to do so, keep in mind that you’re getting the total package of equal parts bar, restaurant, lounge, and arcade. All things being equal though, the games aren’t any more or less than the whole; they’re part of the ensemble.

So leave the quarters at home, bring a date, and if you arm yourself with the right cocktail, get ready to have a merry night full of all the classic eighties feels.

Arcade Review: Cobra Arcade and Bar

by Matthew MorrellJune 5, 2016

American Arcades are Reborn!

If anyone’s ever had that moment while being harassed by some troll online in the comfort in their own home and said to themselves, “Where the hell are all the adults who play video games?”

Cobra Arcade and Bar in downtown Phoenix, Arizona is that place.

To verify this claim, this field reporter spent his Saturday trekking over 700 miles into hell’s front porch, Phoenix, Arizona. Temperatures reached a soul crushing 114 degrees. Expectations for whether or not this little pub was worth it began to climb.

Located just a stone’s throw away from the Phoenix Convention Center, this bar immediately exceeded those expectations. It is exactly what you’ve been looking for: a haven for gamers who grew up in the classic arcade era. Of course, if you’re at least over twenty-one they’ll let you in regardless of your recollection of the eighties and nineties. That being said, the nostalgia factor is strong in this most beautiful of bars.

She's not looking down on you, she's wondering, "What took you so damn long to come home?" — She’s not looking down on you, she’s wondering, “What took you so damn long to come home?”

Beautiful is by no means an over exaggeration (Nor was this field reporter paid to be this flowery). Even before you enter, a gorgeous black and white mural, wooden patio deck, and the delicious scent of the food-truck-of-the-week welcomes you in. Your senses aren’t lying, you’re home now.

Inside, situated underneath what looks like the engines of the Rebel Blockade Runner from Star Wars, you’ll find bartenders frantically running orders. Two huge flat-screens will play whatever happens to suit the night best; Heavy Metal, Planet of the Apes ‘68… you name it. Crammed in the corner is a live DJ spinning a perfect mix of eclectic, and kinetic tracks to mash buttons to.

Even on the busiest of nights (Saturday post Arizona Comic-Con), everyone is greeted, served, and given the time of day by friendly staff. Their in house cocktails are second to none (try an Invader). Or if you want a plain brew, they’ve got plenty to choose from along with a rotating list of ciders and beers. Take your pick from a respectable wine list too. Or, if you just really need the caffeine, Cobra’s got you covered.

What Cobra real boils down to however is that it’s far beyond a bar that just happens to have arcade games. It is without question equal parts bar as it is arcade. Among the handful of people this writer spoke with, the only criticism that could be given was a lack of racing games, and only one shooter to speak of (None other than the OG CarnEvile). But, that’s hardly a factor if you’re busy sinking quarters into TMNT: Turtles in Time, The Simpsons, or an intense two on two game of NBA Freaking Jam.

They even had Space Harrier. You heard me. Space. Harrier.

Well worth the loss of many a quarter #humblebrag

Seriously, feast your eyes upon the official list here and tell me, are you not entertained?

What was even better than the astounding selection of games, was once again, Cobra cares about their cabinets and the gamers who use them. From open to close while present, this report found NONE of the games Out of Order. None of them. Street Fighter II had a weird joystick issue going on at one point. Within mere moments, an In-House Tech had surgically opened the cabinet, healed it back to good, and players were kicking ass until last call. When the token machine ran out of tokens, a heartbeat had passed before it was refilled again.

So if you’re asking yourself, is it worth to escape the comfort of the ole’ homestead console or PC and venture outside? Deep down in your heart of hearts, you’re craving a friendly environment, delicious drinks, and an expertly curated collection of game cabinets. Cobra Arcade and Bar is the second home you’ve be searching for.

Cash in a sick day or two.

Go there now.

Matthew B. Morrell