Brisbane's Getting a Retro-Style Freeplay Gaming Arcade

When it comes to all things gaming, Brisbane has been levelling up over the past few months. First came Netherworld, the city's first arcade game bar. Then Super Combo arrived with its Street Fighter-themed burgers. Come April 22, add 1UP Arcade's retro-style freeplay gaming to the mix.

Setting up shop in a yet-to-be-disclosed Lytton Road, Morningside location, 1UP has more than just pumping coins into machines in mind. In fact, the 80-machine joint wants you to mash buttons on usual suspects such as Street Fighter and NBA Jam and rarer finds like Garou: Mark of the Wolves without needing to reach for your wallet. Here, patrons will pay a flat entry fee or opt for a membership, and then play to their heart's content. If you've been having Timezone lock-in withdrawals, you'd best start stretching your fingers now because you'll be in your element.

"We want to attract players of all ages and skill levels, and that means removing all roadblocks to enjoyment," says owner and founder Stephen Holmes. "Usually you have to feed a machine dollar after dollar to get enough playtime to improve — but not at 1UP."

Yes, gaming is firmly in the spotlight — and, in a departure from the current trend, drinking and eating at the same venue isn't. 1UP proudly stands alone as dedicated arcade, rather than falling within a bar or cafe. Staying true not only to a retro vibe but also old-school parts is also on the agenda, with Holmes focusing on authenticity among the close to 60 machines he's already confirmed. Prepare to stare at arcade-standard CRT monitors in original cabinets for hours on end, with anything needing a bit of love being rebuilt from original bits and pieces. Game on.

Find 1UP Arcade in a yet-to-be-disclosed location on Lytton Road, Morningside from April 22. For more information, keep an eye on their website.