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Gary’s Place

Gary’s Place

Reviews Summary

This arcade consistently earns praise for its exceptional mix of classic and modern games, including rare Japanese imports and well-maintained pinball machines. Reviewers highlight the owners' passion, with meticulous machine upkeep and reversible upgrades preserving authenticity. The friendly, welcoming staff enhances the experience, alongside quality food and drink options. Cleanliness, nostalgic vibes, and unique titles like Wacca and DDR stand out. Minor critiques mention limited song selections on some rhythm games, but overall, it’s celebrated as a must-visit spot for arcade enthusiasts.

About This Listing

Has Retro Games
Has Fighting Games
Has Tournaments
Has Arcade Cabinets
Has Food
Has Pinball Machines
Good for kids
Has Rhythm Games
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 Pinball Tables in Arcades

Step up to a pinball table and dive into a vibrant, hands-on experience! Modern machines, like those from Stern or Jersey Jack, feature dazzling LCD screens, immersive themes (Star Wars, Stranger Things), and dynamic soundtracks. You’ll use flipper buttons to launch a steel ball, aiming for targets, ramps, and bumpers to rack up points. Each table has unique missions—hit specific targets to unlock bonuses or multiball modes for high-scoring chaos. Expect tactile thrills, flashing lights, and a lively crowd vibe, with tables rewarding skill and quick reflexes. Perfect for casual fun or competitive play, pinball delivers timeless arcade excitement in 2025.

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.

Addendum: What to Expect from Rhythm Games in Arcades

Get ready to groove with rhythm games! Expect vibrant machines like Dance Dance Revolution or Pump It Up, featuring touchpads, dance platforms, or instrument controllers. You’ll tap, step, or hit notes in sync with catchy songs, guided by colorful on-screen prompts. Modern setups include LED screens, powerful speakers, and eclectic playlists, from pop to techno. Games range from beginner-friendly to expert-level challenges, rewarding precision and flair. With arcade crowds cheering and online leaderboards, rhythm games offer an electrifying, music-driven experience in 2025.

Features

Has Retro Games
Has Fighting Games
Has Tournaments
Has Arcade Cabinets
Has Food
Has Pinball Machines
Good for kids
Has Rhythm Games
Wheelchair Accessible

Contact Information

Address

2820 Alki Ave SW

Seattle, Washington 98116

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

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

Customer Reviews

Pinball machines are in excellent condition. They are cleaned frequently and well taken care of. Love that they have the Stern Scoreboard on a flatscreen above the machines. Owners and staff are really nice and welcoming.

If you're by Alki Beach, I highly recommend this arcade bar. It has a selection of pinball machines and arcade games you'll love as well as some games you won't find at your average arcade. The food, while limited, is delicious. My favorite part is how dedicated the owners and employees are to giving people a great experience and taking good care of these classic games.

An amazing arcade with fantastic and friendly owners and employees. The owners truly care about the machines they purchase and maintain, ensuring that each one is preserved in its original state whenever possible. They only make upgrades that are fully reversible, respecting the history and integrity of the machines. It's clear they're dedicated to providing a genuine arcade experience while keeping the charm of classic games alive.

Awesome arcade with oldies, new oldies and new innovative arcade games that I've never seen before. Really liked the circle rhythm game

Gary?s Place is awesome! The machines are in perfect shape and play like a dream?you can tell the owners really care about keeping everything running smoothly. The vibe is super chill and nostalgic, and the owners are so friendly and welcoming, it's like hanging out at a friend?s place. Whether you're into pinball, classic arcade games, or Japanese faves this spot is a total win. Highly recommend grabbing a beverage and spending an evening out here!

Loved it. I've been to several arcades in the city. This one is quality. Value per play is much higher. Game play is longer. The import games are more entertaining. The options for food and beverages are priced right. Very clean.

One of the best arcades in the city! You can feel the passion that the owners have for all the machines. This is one of the only places with in house technicians and as a result everything is in excellent shape. The selection of machines is excellent with a nice blend of pinball, fighting games, retro classics, and modern picks. The space is comfortable and clean with excellent food and beverage options. Highly recommend!

Such a Nice and fun environment with the best staff! One of the staff members, Giovanni, even helped us jump our car when the battery died! Highly recommended for a good evening out ??

I can't go to Alki without stopping by. Super fun games and pinball machines that you won't see anywhere else. It's clean, the food is delicious, the staff is friendly, and it's great to have a beer while playing.

Great vibe, great games (cool imports from japan, and they have dance dance revolution!), super clean, and staff are so friendly. Run by people who have a love for arcade games and take great care of their machines. A must if you live in the area, and absolutely worth a trip to west seattle otherwise.

Cool little place. Nice selection of mostly video games and pinball with one or two ticket/prize games. A few sit down cabs which is nice, though most are fighting games so not a ton of variety in genre. Only real complaint would be Wacca is set to one song which for 75 cents isn't a good deal. The standard would be 3 songs per credit.

Wow! I don't know of another arcade that has the fave classics Asteroids, Defender, Donkey Kong, and Ms Pac-Man. And they save the high scores!

Great arcade and pinball selection along with a few quirky multiplayer Japanese arcade cabinets that are sure to be a hit with you and your friends. Not to mention they have WACCA and DDR ??????

Good selection of pizza and beer. Lots of pinball machines and fighting games. Classics and retros. Marvel vs Capcom 2,check out my highscore ASG

I'm a fighter head, so when I saw Street Fighter, MVC2, and especially. Tekken 3, i knew I would be coming down often. Thank you for having these classics.

Great place! Glad there's an ?adult? version of their sister arcade next door. Grab a beer, have a pizza, play some pinball!

Great arcade! Machines are clean and all in working order. I discovered a rhythm game "Wacca" here, super fun!

Amazing vibe and cozy place! Friendly staff and excellent pizzas and snacks and?. Beer! Yay! Play some games and enjoy a beer.

Great small barcade with some awesome machines. The environment is super chill!

A cool new for a hearty snack and some video games

Cool spot to hang out and kill a few hours

Cabinets are all in very good condition.

Amazing arcade, lots of new cutting edge stuff from Japan and lots of oldies but goodies. Also some new American arcade games like Perfect Pour. The arcade owner is definitely passionate about his work and the quality of the place shows. There's also tons of drinks and some food options. Check it out!

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 pinball tables still good in this modern age?

Yes, pinball tables in arcades remain a blast. Their hands-on, skill-driven gameplay delivers a thrill digital games can’t match, blending nostalgia with modern flair. Newer tables from Stern and Jersey Jack feature LCD screens and themes like Avengers or Stranger Things, keeping things exciting. Arcades are seeing a pinball resurgence with vibrant scenes and tournaments like IFPA events drawing crowds. Though less common than video games, pinball’s tactile charm and community vibe make it a standout arcade experience in 2025.

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.

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

Yes, rhythm games in arcades are a vibrant hit in 2025! Titles like Dance Dance Revolution and Beatmania deliver high-energy fun, blending music, movement, and precision. Modern machines boast vivid displays, booming sound systems, and diverse song libraries, from J-pop to EDM. They challenge reflexes and rhythm, with competitive leaderboards and tournaments fostering a lively community. Arcade dance floors are regularly packed, proving rhythm games’ immersive, physical thrill keeps them a standout in today’s gaming scene.