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At the Pier Arcade

At the Pier Arcade

Reviews Summary

Most reviews praise the arcade as a fun, family-friendly spot with a good variety of games, reasonable prices, and helpful staff. Many highlight its appeal to kids and nostalgic value. However, several negative reviews criticize high costs, malfunctioning games, poor prize quality, and rude or unresponsive employees. The overall sentiment leans positive, but pricing and customer service issues are recurring complaints.

About This Listing

Has Retro Games
Has Arcade Cabinets
Has Food
Good for kids
Has Prizes
Wheelchair Accessible

Who Can Play?

Most arcades welcome all ages (some may have age restrictions for certain games)
Minors may need parent/guardian supervision (policies vary by location)
No gaming experience required - games range from beginner to expert level
Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes recommended for safety
Valid ID may be required for certain attractions or age verification
Groups and parties welcome (advance booking may be required)

*Note: Age restrictions and policies may vary by arcade. Check with your local facility for specifics.*

First-Time Visitors

First-time visitors may need to sign a waiver or register for a game card. Staff are typically available to help explain games and provide tutorials. Some arcades offer newcomer specials or free play sessions to help you get started.

Common Restrictions:

Age-Based Some games may have height or age requirements for safety reasons
Capacity Popular games may have wait times during peak hours

*Note: Policies vary by arcade. Confirm with your local facility.*

What to Bring

Cash or card for tokens/credits (some arcades are cashless)
Valid ID for age verification or membership signup
Phone to capture high scores and memories (check photo policies)

*Note: Payment methods and requirements may differ by arcade.*

Preparing for Your Visit

Check arcade hours and peak times online before visiting
Eat beforehand or check if the arcade has food options
Bring friends for multiplayer games and competitions
Wear comfortable clothes you can move freely in
Avoid bringing valuable items that could be lost or damaged
Check for special events, tournaments, or discount days
Set a budget for games and stick to it
Stay hydrated, especially during long gaming sessions

*Note: Tips may vary by arcade type and location.*

How to Get Started

Most arcades accept walk-ins, but call ahead during busy periods or for large groups. Check for membership deals!

Other Helpful Info

Most visits last 1-3 hours depending on games and group size
Popular games may have longer wait times during weekends and evenings
Many arcades offer unlimited play packages or time-based pricing
Some locations host tournaments and special events regularly
Prize redemption available at many arcades - save your tickets!

*Note: Policies, pricing, and features differ by arcade. Contact your local facility for details.*

What to Expect from Retro Games in Arcades

Step into the glow of retro arcade games and expect a nostalgic rush! Classics like Galaga, Donkey Kong, or Mortal Kombat await, housed in vibrant cabinets with joysticks, buttons, or trackballs. You’ll dodge enemies, chase high scores, or battle opponents in fast-paced, pixel-perfect gameplay. Modern restorations include sharp CRT or LED screens and authentic controls, preserving the 80s/90s vibe. Games are easy to learn but tough to master, offering quick sessions or deep challenges. With leaderboards and arcade crowds cheering, retro games deliver timeless fun in 2025.

How Arcade Prize Games Work

Dive into the excitement of arcade prize games! Expect claw machines, skee-ball, whack-a-mole, or basketball challenges where you test your skills or luck to win tickets or prizes directly. Claw games require precise joystick control to grab toys, while redemption games reward accuracy with tickets to trade for plushies, gadgets, or trinkets at prize counters. Modern setups boast colorful displays and smooth mechanics, blending nostalgia with fresh fun. The thrill of winning and the vibrant arcade vibe make prize games a captivating draw in 2025.

Features

Has Retro Games
Has Arcade Cabinets
Has Food
Good for kids
Has Prizes
Wheelchair Accessible

Contact Information

Address

Uptown Rapid, 2200 N Maple Ave Space 605

Rapid City, South Dakota 57701

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Monday 10AM-8PM
Tuesday 10AM-8PM
Wednesday 10AM-8PM
Thursday 10AM-8PM
Friday 10AM-8PM
Saturday 10AM-8PM
Sunday 12-6PM

Customer Reviews

Wonderful place to spend some time with kids and loved ones. Total throwback to a time without phones. You sign in and get a card to use for all the machines, which each has a different set of points to use to play. With each game played, you earn reward points to get a prize at the end of your play (candy and Knick knacks).

This place is a rip off. They didn't open on time, employee is no where to be seen. Not sure why you wouldn't have at least one person up front at all times. It's about $30 for 300 credits, but there is a claw machine that costs 125 credits. So about $15 for a chance at a stuffed animal. Major cash grab since little kids enjoy stuffed animals and don't understand the concept of credits. That is the most expensive game in the building. Others are around 7 credits. Nice job.

We came on a Tuesday afternoon and it was a blast! The guys working there were super with my kiddos! We will be back!

Pretty cool arcade right outside the food court. Wide selection of games; play for tickets, play for fun, or play for prizes. A new thing for me is the Namco play card. You swipe your debit card and load as much or little onto the game card as you wish. You then simply swipe the card at the machines to pay for the game &&& a bonus: no tickets as the card also stores your ticket count. We played for about an hour with 8 people & $80.

At the Pier arcade was a fun time. A little warm in there, but overall a fun time for the kids and adults. Good thing to do indoors and pass the time. We will be back.

My grandkids love it when I bring them here

We really enjoyed this arcade. We used to come quite often when we lived there. They have a good variety for different ages. It was a lot of fun and fairly priced.

As an arcade it's a very fun experience and overall highly enjoyable for Mall goers! If you find yourself wanting to play some video games at the arcade, this one has plenty!

Older arcade, not a ton of games but enough for smaller kids. Plenty of small ball games and flashing lights and a small party place. I went here as a little guy and I'm glad it's still hanging in the mall and my son can experience it as well. It's a good way to spend an afternoon

Nace place to enjoy with family and friends I like it so much to have fun. Highly recommended

I purchased food in the food court and sat near Time Out for over 5 minutes and watched my niece stand at the counter for help. I called the store and when the man answered he said, "God helps those who help themselves" and hung up on me. Wow. Super bad service.

Had a old white guy (worker) tell me ? you can't detail a car with the hood on? when seeing me and my girlfriend makeup after a slight argument?I don't think minors should be looked or even talked to like that

Had my sons party here price was very reasonable priced and everyone enjoyed ever bit of it! They also give you a coupon for pizza and more in the food arcade

Good arcade for the kids, runs off a card for playing the game and for saving tickets. Way better than Chuck e cheese!

Fun place. Granddaughter had a lot of fun. It is clean and the employees are very nice.

Machine hit 100 tickets pays my six year old ten, showed the counter worker, while the spinner was still on 100, counter workers attitude was oh well, and no supervisor exists according to her, avoid waisting any of your money in this filthy rat hole.

They raised the credits to play the games cost a 100 dollars for half hour of playing and there prizes are junk

It was my 1st time there and I had a blast .Only one prob the ddr game this screen was really hard to see to play the game .

Tons of games I like it nice staff

What was this arcade called when we were growing up in the 80s & 90s?

Went with friends. Good place to kill a few minutes. Has a bar downstairs.

Good gaming selection for kids but prices are high.

I'm 36 and the kids and I like it. Not the biggest but still fun.

Fun place for my kid

Son had fun, will comeback.

Expensive and half the games weren't working.

Good selection, very fun

Had fun with my granddaughter

My daughter and I love going here

Nice to see the place updated

Good place to take your kids

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s it like visiting an arcade today?

It’s a mix of nostalgia and high-energy fun! Many arcades blend retro classics like Pac-Man and pinball with modern VR games, racing simulators, and rhythm challenges — often with music, lights, and a social vibe.

Is it better to go alone or with friends?

Both can be great! Solo visits let you focus on your favorite games, while going with friends adds competition, teamwork, and laughs. Many people plan arcade meetups as a casual hangout or even date spot.

What should I bring to an arcade?

Usually just yourself and a way to pay (some arcades still use coins, others use cards or apps). If you're competitive, bring your A-game. If you're social, bring friends or meet new ones over multiplayer games.

What’s the best time to visit an arcade?

Weekdays or early afternoons are usually less crowded — perfect for focused play. Evenings and weekends bring the buzz, especially at barcades or venues with DJs, tournaments, or themed nights.

Can I meet new people at arcades?

Absolutely! Arcades attract a mix of casual players and serious gamers. Whether you're jumping into a four-player co-op or chatting between rounds, it's a fun, low-pressure way to connect over shared interests.

Are arcades still just for kids?

Not at all. While many arcades are family-friendly, there are also adult-oriented ones with full bars, 18+ nights, or vintage nostalgia themes. Arcades today cater to everyone — from first-timers to lifelong gamers.

Are there events or tournaments I can join?

Yes! Many arcades host regular competitions, retro nights, cosplay parties, and more. Whether you're into high scores or just want to watch and vibe, events add an extra layer to the experience.

What if I’m not great at arcade games?

No worries — arcades are about having fun, not being perfect. Try a variety of games, ask others for tips, and remember: the vibe is more “let’s play” than “let’s win.”

Are retro games in arcades still good in this modern age?

Absolutely, retro games in arcades remain a thrilling draw in 2025! Classics like Pac-Man, Space Invaders, and Street Fighter II offer simple yet addictive gameplay, blending nostalgia with timeless challenge. Modern arcade cabinets often feature crisp displays and restored controls, enhancing the experience. These games thrive on quick reflexes and strategy, with vibrant pixel art and iconic soundtracks that spark joy. Arcades host tournaments and leaderboards, fostering a lively community. While modern games dominate, retro titles provide a unique, accessible thrill that keeps arcades buzzing.

Why are arcade prize games so exciting to play?

Arcade prize games are a thrilling highlight in 2025! Claw machines, skee-ball, and ticket-redemption games like basketball offer a rush of skill and chance, with rewards like plushies, toys, or electronics up for grabs. Modern machines feature vibrant lights, digital scoreboards, and responsive controls, amplifying the fun. The lively arcade atmosphere, with cheering crowds and buzzing energy, makes every win feel epic.