High Scores Arcade

High Scores Arcade

Reviews Summary

High Scores Arcade is a beloved retro gaming spot with overwhelmingly positive reviews. Customers praise its $10/hour unlimited play model, calling it excellent value. The arcade features well-maintained classic games that evoke strong nostalgia, particularly for 80s/90s era. Visitors highlight the friendly staff, great 80s music atmosphere, and recent addition of drinks. Families appreciate its intergenerational appeal, while locals frequent it regularly. The only noted drawback was a lack of accessibility accommodations. Overall, it's considered a fantastic addition to Monterey, offering fun, affordable entertainment with authentic vintage charm.

About This Listing

Has Retro Games
Has Arcade Cabinets
Good for kids
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.

Features

Has Retro Games
Has Arcade Cabinets
Good for kids
Wheelchair Accessible

Contact Information

Address

459 Alvarado St

Monterey, California 93940

Hours

Monday 12:30-10PM
Tuesday 12:30-10PM
Wednesday 12:30-10PM
Thursday 12:30-10PM
Friday 12:30PM-12AM
Saturday 12:30PM-12AM
Sunday 12:30-11PM

Customer Reviews

$10 is cheap! Considering how much you play, if it was quarters it definitely would have added up. Even better they plays 80s music all the time and had 80s beer. Honestly this is the best thing that has happened on Alvarado street. Joust was honestly my favorite game. Try to get your high score on their board while you're there.

Super nice staff and no coins needed! You pay $10 per person and those not playing can accompany player without paying the $10. Great music and super cool old school games!!

The bright colors and lights just from looking outside caught our attention. The lady at the front desk welcomed us and allowed us to look around. We were able to play for an hour, and their rates are very inexpensive. We enjoyed playing a lot of their retro video games which included Super Smash Bros Melee, Punch Out Arcade, Classic Donkey Kong, and even the famous Pacman arcade machines. That was our first time in Monterey but we definitely will come back to this place for some more fun time ??

WOW! MPUSD is so thankful to the amazing High Scores Arcade team! We took a group of 30 students to the arcade to learn about Game Design and history and were not disappointed, the delightful owners worked with us every step of the way from detailed planning to welcoming our group and giving us the presentation themselves! It was echoed throughout all of our students that this was the best field trip they had been on. Not only did they learn about the industry ,but they had a blast playing at the arcade to

Fun addition to Monterey! In the middle of Alvarado Street, this retro arcade is packed with a rotating collection of the best games from the 80's. Clean, well managed with a super helpful and friendly staff ... oh, and a perfect 80's playlist set at just the perfect volume. We're local and go a couple times a week. Highly recommend.

This place is super neat! $10 for all you can play for an hour, lots of classics!

This was great fun for the whole family (two parents and three kids - 18, 16, 12). For the adults, it was a nostalgia-filled trip down Memory Lane; and for the kids, it was a cool experience to play some of the original video games of the 1980s. Complementing the experience is 80s music playing from the jukebox. $10 per person per hour is extremely reasonable given that you get unlimited play on all the games. The staff member on-site was welcoming and friendly. We went on a Thursday evening, which meant i

Definitely brought back those early 90?s vibes! I brought my kids and they loved it more than me lol!

Our family loves this place! The price is such a good value instead of having to pay for each game. Such a great addition to the community!

Awesome place owned by passionate people. There's something for everyone to play, and you're bound to have fun with something in the arcade. A place like this was NEEDED for Monterey. Insanely great pricing too, with unlimited plays for all games at $10 an hour. I genuinely can't wait to see where this goes, and I'm wishing the best for the team! Hoping for a membership option as well as a competitive tournament scene soon!

not a ton of games but great value for $10, nice staff and reasonably priced drinks! Would definitely go back.

They need to accommodate persons with disabilities like shorter stools or chairs.

A small, but epic arcade. I'm always happy to see one as they are so rare to find anywhere anymore. The price to play for an hour is fair and good, giving you lots of games to choose from. There are several multicabinets too, giving you ever further choices to pick from and numerous classics to play with friends. This place is a good slice right out of the 80s and 90s nostalgia, so I certainly reccommend visiting with friends. Give this place some good support.

Super fun place! Authentic classic arcade machines with a really great vibe. Owners were really nice and pretty soon they'll have beer too! Unlimited play for an hour for $10 or all day for $22. Fingers crossed they'll have an option for membership cause this is sick! Happy to have an arcade like this in the area.

My kids love this place, it's a throwback to the 80s with oldschool pac man, streetfighter and tron games. 10 bucks gets you an hour of unlimited play. They even have beer!

A trip down memory lane, for a reasonable price. The arcade is packed with classic arcade machines and they're all free to play (hourly/daily admission fee). +1 for atmosphere (80's jukebox, bright colors in a dark room). Everything was clean & working, the employees are friendly.

Love this place! The owner seems very nice and they're very reasonably priced. The games are super fun and I love that they offer drinks now too

Great spot; $10 for all you can play for an hour. Really fun way to spend some time and some classic games!

Really cool concept. You pay $10 and can play all games for an hour. They also serve beer and hard seltzer.

All the best coin op games in one place. It's a trip down memory lane for me. And the best pop music from the 1980s.??

Great addition to Alvarado Street! My husband and I did the $10/ hour option, and it flew by! Lots of great options for games & the place is well maintained. Definitely recommend!

Great place to play some retro games! $10 for 1h is a great deal!

Super fun place! Brings back childhood memories and nostalgia! $10 for an hour is a great deal!

All the games' controllers are in perfect condition, and the hourly rate with infinite credits on all the games is awesome (especially on arcade Contra)!! I am SOOOOO stoked to see this in Monterey ????

Such a fun spot! Lots of cool retro games perfect for 2 players. Would love to go back.

Great value, and a great array of classic games!

Incredible Can't wait to come back here

A good day at the arcade ??

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.