Bowlero Melbourne

Bowlero Melbourne

Reviews Summary

The reviews present a mixed consensus. Positive feedback highlights friendly staff, clean facilities, and enjoyable experiences for parties and families. Many appreciate the atmosphere and customer service. However, negative reviews criticize high prices, poor food quality, and inconsistent management. Complaints include rude employees, malfunctioning equipment, and strict policies. While some visitors had great experiences, others left disappointed, particularly with value for money and service issues.

About This Listing

Has Arcade Cabinets
Has Food
Good for kids
Has Pool Tables
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 Pool Tables in Arcades

Step up to a pool table and dive into a classic, hands-on game! Expect sturdy tables with smooth felt surfaces, cue sticks, and a set of numbered balls for games like 8-ball or 9-ball. You’ll chalk up, aim, and strike the cue ball to pocket balls with precision, mastering angles and spin. Tables are well-lit, often with vibrant designs, creating a lively atmosphere. Whether playing casually with friends or joining arcade tournaments, pool offers strategic, social fun that’s easy to pick up and endlessly engaging in 2025.

Features

Has Arcade Cabinets
Has Food
Good for kids
Has Pool Tables
Wheelchair Accessible

Contact Information

Address

1099 N Wickham Rd

Melbourne, Florida 32935

Hours

Monday 12-11PM
Tuesday 9AM-11PM
Wednesday 12-11PM
Thursday 12-11PM
Friday 9AM-12AM
Saturday 10AM-12AM
Sunday 12-11PM

Customer Reviews

Not children friendly on Saturdays - The music videos that play on the large Screens are not family friendly and are not appropriate for children. My wife asked to see if maybe they can change the video and we were told no. Many of the music videos that played were very sensual and frankly ugly and not appropriate for children. Maybe at other times of the week it's better, but Saturday afternoon, I do not recommend it if you have children.

The arcade is big and so cool, they have nice big screens and the atmosphere and the staff was great! We had an amazing time celebrating my son?s 15th birthday! ??

Great first experience! We weren't expecting a busy night on a Thursday night, but it was booming! Great crowd & great staff. Tyler really went above and beyond to make sure we had a great smooth time. Will def be back!

For starters I had a group of 10 people, knowing it was a larger group I went an hour earlier than our scheduled time before everyone got there. I asked the manager if I could reserve two lanes an hour in advance and he looked and me like I was stupid and said no I can't reserve lanes and that I would have to wait till everyone got there. I totally understand the policy and that reserving lanes isn't possible but the tone he said it rubbed me the wrong way. The few of us that waited drank at the bar and pl

My son recently had his birthday party at the Melbourne Bowlero. For a mom that's never had a party at a bowling alley and nonetheless never really bowled it was a little overwhelming managing the order of operations in which to do things. Tameka was amazing in assisting us with our party and answering all questions. She set us up with Penny who helped us with our party, food and drinks who also was amazing. Tyler came and checked in on our party as well. He brought over the arcade cards that came with our

Last week we had our son's birthday party here and it was a hit. I didn't have to worry about much other than bringing his cake. Everything was taken care of by the bowling alley. The staff is really nice. It was awesome. Perfect last minute deal. 260$ for 7 kids, 2 hrs unlimited drinks, and food -two items with a side, plenty options, and an arcade card for all the kids. 5/5 10/10

The owners are so nice and welcoming. The pizza was stellar. So clean!

The place is clean, well-maintained, and has a fun atmosphere. The staff is helpful in answering questions. We had a great time. The BEST part is they don't have bowling leagues that take up every lane, like another local bowling alley does.

I had a fantastic experience with at you guys establishment. The service was excellent, the staff was friendly and helpful, and I would highly recommend them to anyone. Most thanks to Tameka and Jaymond

This place was disappointing. Thought there was gonna be cosmic bowling and there wasn't. Super over priced and workers were very disturbing, unpleasant. Im not a professional bowler or anything i was just trying to have a fun night out with friends, even when i tried to order food the lady with the fake eyelashes had a nasty attitude. Either new staff or prices need to go down. Would rather go to shore lanes bowling thats a few miles down and pay 60 for 2 hours with 7-8 people, rather than 85 for one hour

Highly dissatisfied, I bowled here tonight and it was over 60 dollars for me and my girlfriend. I proceed to bowl and quickly realize the lanes were not waxed what so ever. About an hour in I ask the manager why it's like that and he says those lanes are frequently used and the lanes that are waxed cannot be used at the moment and they save them for leagues, which why in the world are they getting priority like I'm so peasant. Take in mind I spent almost 250 on a rhino ball a week ago just to not even be ab

My girlfriend and I went yesterday Tyler the main manager last night was very accommodating to our needs he kept on making sure our experience was the best one ever . Kayla the snack person was also very friendly. They also both provided good customer service. We will be back!

Very nice staff, I have come here twice for a work event for the past 2 years and I love it. Much better than my personal bowling alley.

Dear Bowlero Management, I am writing to formally express my deep disappointment with the service I received at your location on February 7, 2025, while celebrating my birthday with a party of six. The unprofessionalism and lack of customer care from both management and staff completely ruined what should have been a fun and memorable evening. When we arrived, the employee at the counter, Tyler (who I was informed is the manager), failed to explain the unlimited bowling deals and instead attempted to char

Not a great bowler and was nervous when my neighbor asked me to join a league here. I did and wow I am having a blast. The staff as been great and the community and other players have been so cool and welcoming. Great alley and shop love this place. Keep up the great work. Hopefully they have some more specials or groupons soon

Tameka and Jaymond are the epitome of customer service! They worked fast to get me and our party of 8 on some lanes and some shoes.

My favorite go-to we go there every Sunday. I enjoy the atmosphere. The staff is friendly and they also remember their returning customers

We had our company holiday party here and it was fantastic, Tyler and his team did an amazing job. If you have a small company looking for a great event contact Tyler.

Purchased a ticket through Groupon bowlero never contacted Groupon abt them having an event and didn't let us use our tickets nor give us refund manager was very unprofessional about the situation and told me I needed to answer the phone call outside and couldn't do nothing about it mind you the tickets was $61 and they offer us 4 $10 game card which is not the same value. Very irresponsible and rude. Watch ur managers and how they speak to customers that the highest thing.

Service is fantastic. Price is a little high.. summer specials was 4 a person plus shoe rentals. I have a family of 5 and didn't understand why paying over $100...? But it was a fantastic time!

We had an awesome time! It can err on the pricey side if you don't go on a night that has specials, so keep an eye out for deals. The food was ok, and drinks were pretty good! The entire place was spotless and all the equipment was in good shape.

Bowlero was a amazingggg experience. Tameka and Jaymond provide excellent customer service. I will definitely be coming back !! Best bowling experience.

My daughter had a great birthday party. As soon as I filled out the information online to book a party, the staff was prompt, knowledgeable, and friendly. Once there, the staff was great. Friendly, attentive, and quick service. Food was hot and delicious. Arcade had great variety of games. Would go there again. Highly recommend.

Little pricey but a great time all in all

What family fun! Took our boys and their girls there on a Wednesday night for pool. It was great for us. We played a couple games, had a couple rounds of drinks, and super hot fresh bar snacks.

Very great experience! Tyler was awesome. He helped me get a spiderman plushy from the claw machine after learning it was my birthday. Super great guy, amazing experience and amazing atmosphere.

Bowlero of Melbourne hosted my daughter?s birthday party this weekend and they did a really great job. The whole process was very seamless and I appreciated the kind and helpful staff!

Facilities were fine. The food took a little while despite no real crowd, about half capacity. The price was not worth it though. Ended up paying $115 for 4 people to play two games. For that price go to Andretti or Route 7.

Great specials during the week... definitely worth doing. The game area is small but cool... good variety. The food menu is plentiful also. Free refills on medium drinks and up. Good times with a friendly staff.

Has of late haven't been practicing has much at bowlero. Trying to get a fresh shot out on the lanes is just difficult for this place. If someone sets up a reservation with it, just charge them extra for the oil and time it took. Food is fine, parking is great, and management is good. Just can't believe I have to drive to Orlando or Palm Coast to get a pattern laid down. Kinda pathetic

The hot dog with a jalapeno queso cheese is fantastic. Outstanding bowling alley, I really enjoy my time there, awesome leagues.

The best place to bowl ever. I have the most funnest time there every time there

You guys need to know what's going on at the facility, I understand the fact that the prices have to be high expecially for a Friday but the manager at this establishment is so rude he was Very rude to my sister and it was her birthday we came to this bowling alley for her birthday and he completely destroyed the night very very disappointing this is the second time I have had to reach out to you and honestly I could care less about receiving free bowling I will never step foot into this establishment again

came here to celebrate christmas with my boyfriend and his mom. we picked up sushi and came here to buy some beer and play a couple games of bowling probably would?ve spent over $50. they kicked us out for bringing in our own food while in a secluded corner. we don't like bar food and already bought food. you guys have lost money but not allowing us to bring in food we want to eat, great business model!!!

Used to bowl here as a child, now I bring my grandson. He had a blast. Game room a little pricey, food a little greasy...but overall 12 buck a game made for a great time.

The outside is a bit deceptive, thank goodness. The inside is very clean with a great set up nice amount of space good technology/equipment. It is a bit pricey but what isn't these days. Great spot to have some fun with the whole family. The only reason I gave 4 stars instead of 5 is because I was a bit annoyed with the process when your reservation is finished. They were only about 1/2 full and when our 2 hour reservation was finished the game just literally stopped with no warning no nothing. It would be

If I could give less than 1 star, I would! Completely rude manager refused to help us with a reservation issue. Wanted to place all the blame on us and ?sales? rather than take any accountability for his operation. Paid $450 for 8 people to bowl 2 hours. Was told it would be cheaper to come in without a reservation and pay individually per game. Then when we wanted to add a bowler we were informed it would be another $40. This operation is a joke I will never come back here after this experience!

Nice air condition, staff very friendly, good deal for summer bowling, food and drink is plentiful, very clean

Nice clean facility. Lanes well maintained. Beautiful arcade for the kids.

This is a beautiful bowling alley! They have an arcade area to keep you busy if there is a wait, there is a bar with a few pool tables as well. Bathrooms are kept clean and stocked the times that I have been and there are hand sanitizing stations through the place too. They also have an app that you can download and play bowling games and earn money and rewards which is excellent!

My son is on the Junior Scholarship League. He earns money toward his education, gets to participate in a sport, and meet new people. All the people at the bowling alley are awesome. Coach Mike and Coach Kevin (pictured below with my son) have been dedicated to the kids for the three years my son has been bowling. ;)

Great time with my son today. Staff very friendly and it was clean. If it's beginning of summer check into their summer pass. Looks like a good deal if you think you would go often, but not a bad price without it ( my 5 year old can't do more than one game or he loses attention so not worth it for us to get pass). They did have lighter balls, bumpers and the roll rack perfect for my little guy. He has a blast. We will definitely be back!

5 stars to Mike (Event Manager) for taking care of my kid party. We had a good time and everything was taken care off. He definetly take care of everything. I wpuld deffinetly recomment for kids birthday party!

A little high price and our table they gave us had other people's drinks and food left on it. that's why I give 4 stars. But all the staff was great!! Me my son and grandson had a lot of fun.

Melbourne facility is awful, staff was very rude. Went there for a fun family night. We didn't even finish our game. Would never go back and would highly recommend finding another bowling establishment.

I just want to say that we was very pleased with the customer service we received here during my son's birthday party. I would definitely recommend this bowling alley for parties. The set up was nice and then we added our own touch to it as well. The event coordinator was great too. The food wasn't bad and the managers Mike and Chris was the best!! Thanks again.

Like the new bowling alley. Love the videos playing over the bowling balls matching the music playing really nice. We had out JA Bowl A Thon there last Thursday we had a blast

The arcade was fun and the credits weren't too pricey. I wish there was more variety of fun games that weren't just test your luck games. My biggest complaint is that their credit prizes were very lackluster. They were targeted mostly for little girls and the prize for 750 credits was just unicorn putty.

Came here for a birthday party and the catering in house was on point. They checked on the the family every 15 mins and kept the food and drinks filled. No issues with this bowling alley! Perfect for family gatherings. Oh and they do the birthday decor also!

I might be generous with a 3 star. We stopped in a few days ago to bowl and eat. However, The lanes were being waxed and furthermore our food was utterly disgusting. We ordered the platter sampler (wings were not of great quality and the cheesy bread sticks tasted awful. However, the nice lady at the bar was very polite. As we sat to eat at one of the tables, we were asked to move to another table due to league bowlers coming in. So we moved, paid our check and left. I would not recommend the wings h

We really like this place, clean and staff is very friendly! Love the shop inside also!

We came in on a Groupon while on vacation, purchased some extra goodies and played in the arcade... it was a great time!! They're clearly still going through upgrades, but the service was excellent and everything immaculate.

The first and the last time... I have to said for a bowlero in a small town it's incredible expensive, we play the same day at the same time, the same people (after we went here) in the bowlero at disney spring and was 30$ under the price we paid here. I'm sorry, I don't want to be rude or not polite, but it's true.

Little pricey compared to other lanes around. But with that it seems like a little better upkeep, better seating areas and so on. Just an update: they get off on having the lights off. If thats your thing. Go for it. Of you really want to bowl or practice.. well, early Saturday morning, some nights throughout the week. Other than that you're outta luck.. go to shore lanes in Palm Bay... it's cheaper, better food. And LIGHTS!!

Great place, great environment, and good food. Would 100% recommend it.

Went today 7/11/24 with my sons and had so much fun! I opted to reserve my spot just in case and I would suggest others do the same. It fills up quickly! Employees were nice and the space was very clean

Pretty good, kinda pricey tho.... If you're not in a league... Hope you like bowling in the dark. Stupidest thing ever.

Our first time here for a 4yr old birthday party and my daughter's first time bowling!! We had a awesome time and the staff there were so helpful if one of the balls got stuck. Your staff definitely made me feel welcomed! We most definitely will be back to practice our game!! Thanks for our first time!!

I don't go bowling often but this is the place I'd recommend. I'm a child at heart and awful at bowling - which is why this is like my top choice since they let me be a "child." I don't wanna spell it out but I still like the advantage. It can get busy, even though I neglect to realize bowling is hip thing.

Great time team building at Bowlero.. Food and service was awesome.. We will be back soon. Thank you

Nice bowling alley and arcade. Staff was friendly and helpful.

Great afternoon of bowling with family. Food was better than expected. Nice atmosphere too

Nice clean facilities, friendly staff, and new bowling lanes. Decent selection of video games and air hockey. Food is ok. Selling their stock at the shoe rental was a little off-putting.

Been coming here for years and years. Took my 2 year old here tonight with my fiance for her first time and had a blast as always. They have a mini restaurant inside and a full bar, pool tables, a full size arcade, and plenty of lockers.

These people are awesome. Let us crash in the parking lot when we had to sleep in our truck for Milton. Untill we had to leave. No issue with us using their facilities and everyone that bowled there asked us if we needed anything. Frendly area. Wish I had the time to bowl there but l think acouple of the guys did that first night. Thanks again for your hospitality. And hate that we were there under the storm conditions and not on vacation.

We had a great time. Atmosphere is fun, however, the food is an absolute waste of money. We ordered nachos to start and was just chips and grease. I asked the employee if there was cheese on the nachos and he said yes 4 ounces. I'm just wondering if there was 4 ounces of cheese or grease because there was barely any cheese but definitely soggy chips from the grease. Anyways we didn't order any additional food. Eat before you come.

Our experience was great and I have nothing bad to say about the bowling. I gave one star for the price. I started a tab and when I went to check out the total came to $108 for a family of 4 for 2 games and shoe rentals. When I called to make sure that price was correct later they said corporate sets the prices. They wished it wasn't that high for the area but it's out of their control. It's 10 dollars a game per person. I like to bowl but I don't like it that much.

Staff is friendly! Positive and Laid comfortable atmosphere ! With well maintained lanes!

Bowling is always fun, place is clean, great atmosphere and they are always so accommodating to our special needs children when we have parties Thanks for everything Bowlero of Melbourne

My fianc? & I came here for the first time today (6/16). The atmosphere was nice, it was a little loud but that was expected. We were originally going to get some food, however once we got to the table near our lane, there was a dead roach next to it, so we opted against it. We haven't been bowling in almost a year, and didn't realize it was going to be over $50 for two people. Overall, we had a good time but probably won't be going back.

Nice place, Employees are friendly and Mike who works the desk if the best; always friendly and helpful. I hope he never leaves. Unless you're on a league and get the league discounts, it's a bit pricey though. My biggest complaint is that they turn the lights off too much. You can't see the marks on the floor, very annoying, especially when you're on a league and are trying to improve your game. Great arcade, food is decent. All in all, a fun place to bowl.

We had a holiday party there yesterday with a group of 100 kids and adults. Working with their event planner was a breeze and so easy to get the day planned. The staff was on it and all were so incredibly kind and helpful and the day went off without a hitch. Would definitely recommend for a group party - bowling, arcade, food, and drinks - fun was had by all ages! Thank you for a wonderful experience! ????

It was a great kid's birthday experience.

Went out with a group of friends last night (08/02/2024). We could have gone anywhere but we decided to go bowling. The kid at the front was rude and unprofessional. He took our number to put us on a "waiting list" for a lane because a Friday night during busy hours is a good time to "wax the lanes." I can't make this up. So, we went to the bar area, ordered food and drinks. After over an HOUR with absolutely no contact, my husband went to ask about it. He was told there had been three lanes available the

I visited your establishment on Sunday around noon to celebrate my sister?s birthday on 08/11. Unfortunately, the employee at the front was rude and unprofessional. Despite several lanes being open, we requested two lanes, but the guy at the front claimed he wasn't comfortable providing them and falsely stated that no adjacent lanes were available. However, we clearly saw multiple spots with two lanes open side by side. Additionally, the ball and lanes kept getting stuck about 4-5 times during our visit.

Would love to go again but it's not worth it for the price. Went here two weekends ago on a Saturday night around 8pm. Expected a wait for two to bowl but with so many lanes we got right in. Although it was quick to get started we had thought we paid for two games but when the mistake was realized on both sides.. it made us aware we paid $30 for two shoes and 1 game. When you purchase a game here you pay per person playing, not just for round. This was the only negative thing we found. Otherwise we had a g

Bought the fall Pass and went in for the 1st time to bowl...let my buddy know and he came in to bowl after i was bowling...wanted to get him set up with shoes etc and to add more games...went to the desk and no one there had to go to the snack bar where the guy was and advised him he told the guy behind the counter...no one ever came over to the counter to fix for lane to add him...so we left...let Eric know upon departure ....we were planning on eating there too...not pleased with first experience...

Took 9th graders and celebrated with a package that included bowling, refreshments, more bowling and shoe rental, and arcade. They had so much fun!!!! Definitely want to play this game again! The cookie pie... we ate it again in study hall the next day!

It was alright but the pizza was burnt and sour the arcade could use some upgrades but other than that it was good

Went here a few weeks ago with my little brother from big brothers/ big sisters and we had a good time. Luckily they put us at the end which let us talk more since it was a bit busy. It had been awhile since I had been to this bowling alley with our daughters when they were younger and believe these are newer owners. Place is a bit dated and could use a little updating. But it was clean and we had fun. So here is why 3 stars. We went at 11am on a Saturday and bowled 4 games and rented shoes and it was $7

Went to this location for the first time in years since the name change and didn't know you needed to have a reservation to even get a chance at getting a lane. We spent $93.70 on food while waiting over 2 hours for a lane we never got. I tried to email the company before leaving a review but the only contact info was the phone number. I'll change my review if I get a chance to give this place a second go around. I went on a Sunday and still needed a reservation to get in. Didn't even get to play and still

We had our daughter's 13th birthday party here in March and it was a lot of fun. Six teens total, and us parents. The staff went above and beyond to ensure we all had a great time and were so nice and helpful. They even decorated the party tables! The food was really good too. The kids really loved the mac n cheese bites. The value for money spent is unbeatable IMO. Thank you Bowlero staff for a great experience!

Staff is very rigid, lacking people skills. I understand this is a chain but our son was bowling in a tournament and everything was a hassle. We paid a lot for what we got. We did not have this issue at other locations.

This place is not what it used to be. Now it's just so poorly ran and employees are always is bad moods, especially that old bartender.. When you come here, you will just feel like a burden.

This place is not kid friendly. Cost well over $100 for 1 adult and 3 toddlers to bowl 2 games. The toddler size shoes were worn and torn up. They took away my children?s water cups because of a ?no outside food or drink? rule. So I ordered water from the concessions?assuming it would cost money since they took away the children?s water. They said it was free. Please tell me why a business would take away spill proof water cups from 3 toddlers and then give them free cups of water with NO LIDS. No surprise

This place is pure trash. You'd be better off finding a dark alley downtown to throw a ball down.

Staff is great, lots of laughs and fun. Have your party here, we did!

We love coming here and we even had my daughters birthday party here. They did a fantastic job including lots of extra touches that made her feel special. Staff is always friendly and helpful, great food, clean and good prices too.

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 pool tables in arcades still good in this modern age?

Yes, pool tables in arcades remain a fantastic draw in 2025! Games like 8-ball or 9-ball offer tactile, skill-based fun that blends strategy and precision. Modern tables feature smooth felt, responsive cues, and vibrant designs, enhancing the classic experience. Arcades foster a social vibe with casual matches or competitive tournaments, appealing to all skill levels. Unlike digital games, pool’s physicality—lining up shots, feeling the cue’s weight—keeps it timeless.