Retro Lizard’s Custom Arcades

Retro Lizard’s Custom Arcades

Reviews Summary

Overwhelmingly positive reviews highlight exceptional customer service, expertise in arcade setups, and high-quality custom builds. Joel is praised for his responsiveness, remote support, and willingness to go above and beyond. Most customers report seamless experiences, with products working flawlessly and exceeding expectations. A few negative mentions cite unresponsiveness or technical issues, but these are rare exceptions. Many buyers plan repeat purchases, emphasizing trust and satisfaction with Retro Lizard's offerings.

About This Listing

Has Retro Games
Has Arcade Cabinets
Good for kids

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

Contact Information

Address

70 Calvert Blvd

Tonawanda, New York 14150

Hours

Monday 10AM-3PM
Tuesday 10AM-3PM
Wednesday 10AM-3PM
Thursday 10AM-3PM
Friday 10AM-3PM
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Customer Reviews

We bought two machines from him. Pinball is ok Shooting game nothing but problems. Virus in computer multiple times. He won't respond to calls or texts anymore. Don't ever buy from this guy he's a crook. Only cares if your happy first month. Wasted tons of money on a product we are gonna burn cause that's all it's good for is wood. Used twice. Sad. Can see brand new ready dried fire wood ready to burn.

Joel made a custom Guitar hero game for me. It is absolutely amazing. Worth every penny. I will admit it took 9 months, but it was worth the wait. I had a little shipping damage because the game shifted off of the pallet. I am going to recommend that he screws 2x4 pieces around the cabinet to hold the it square on the pallet. He uses a real pallet with thick plywood, shrink wrap and a 2? ratchet strap to secure it. I am thrilled with the sound, function, 5000 songs and quality of the screen. A+++

Really impressed with my Retro Lizard Ridge Racer PC mod. Joel has remoted in to my arcade to help me get things set up just the way I want. Retro Lizard?s Custom Arcades produces quality products. I'm glad I trusted Joel to turn my Ridge Racer into truly something special. Thanks again Joel!

I had a light gun PC built by Joel @retro lizard, I've had it about 6-8 months me and my kids love it. I had a few bugs Joel fixed easily, his customer service really is amazing. He's a great local guy for me, I look forward to more products and to see his business grow.

Retro Lizards Custom Arcades....what an absolute GEM to the arcade world! I had a very disappointing gun cabinet build from GRS....most games didn't work properly, cab buttons useless, no CS, and the list goes on. Joel contacted me and said he wanted to help. He diagnosed, figured out parts, told me what to buy, and then when everything came in, he logged online and worked on my cabinet for HOURS! He got me 220+ games that ALL WORKED and then configured my cabinet buttons to do whatever I wanted them to do!

Just purchased my third hard drive from Joel and the products and customer service are out of this world. He spent almost an hour configuring my pc remotely to make sure all the light guns games performed perfectly. Top products and top service !!!!

Ordered 3 computers from Joel, he delivered on all 3 beyond my expectations! He assured me from when i ordered , he would be there right beside me to make sure it all worked the way they were intended! I love all of them! It's nice having the piece of mind that Joel will support you no matter what, and is available. Great Job Joel!!! Can't wait for future updates on his stuff!!!

I bought the LightGun Hard Drive with the (2) Gun4IR Guns. Joel was amazing through the whole process. He answer all my questions (and I had quite a few). The best part is his support! he logged into my PC and spent almost 2 hours configuring everything and fixed 2 issues I had on my PC and Guns, that were NOT related to his drive, but he used his experience to help me anyway! I now have an amazing Lightgun setup and tons of incredible games to play. He even helped me a second time, a few days later wh

A++ You couldn't speak highly enough of a business! The quality and price point for these products is definitely here. Joel's customer service is absolutely priceless though! If I and any questions or concerns he was on the phone with me resolving anything fast! Was even kind enough to offer future assistance for free. Where do you get that these days!?

Retro Lizard is the best at modern arcade cabinet design and setup. Joel personally assisted me with the setup of my arcade racing cabinet and I couldn't be more grateful. Very professional and trustworthy. I'll be dealing with Retro Lizard for all my future arcade projects.

Joel went above and beyond helping me set up my racing cabinet. He handled all of my questions and concerns quickly and professionally. I highly recommend checking our his different products on his website. He makes sure thinks work on your system.

Great experience with the products and service. I bought the external drive with LGs and could not be happier. Joel is really helpful if you have questions though his included video tutorials pretty much cover everything. I would recommend a full arcade if you want the full experience without having to buy a PC and do any configuration (really easy though). Thanks for an awesome experience!

Amazing service and professionalism! I've purchased several items from Joel and it's always a great experience! 10 start if I could!!

Joel took a novice in technology and had me playing shooter games off my pc in a matter of minutes. Extremely patient guy with top of the line products. If you're on the fence about buying from Retro Lizard, pull the trigger!! (Pun intended!) I will most certainly be a repeat customer.

This guy is awesome. The custom built PC I bought for Retro Gaming (Light Guns) worked exactly as advertised. It shipped quickly, arrived well packaged. He answered all my dumb questions and got me set up. Very Highly Recommended!!

I ordered a light gun drive from retro lizard and man I couldn't be happier! I had a couple of small issues and Joel logged right on and was happy to help me configure a few things no problem! He is a wizard and I will definitely order again from him!!

I got the racing arcade from Retro Lizard Custom Arcades. Gameplay and graphics are terrific, just what I was hoping for. The cabinet is sturdy and looks great. Joel from Retro Lizards was wonderful in communicating through delivery and set up, and took time to answer all my questions.

I highly recommend Retro lizard. If you want a greatly priced arcade cabinet then look no further. Joel is excellent from start to finish (especially finish when he delivered my 4 person custom arcade cabinet)!

Tonight Joel setup my drive and watching him go to the process is impressive. I started using my drive and it work flowless. This man back up his work. I look forward to my next project with him.

Fantastic product and Joel gives A+ customer service and support! I will definitely be buying from them again.

Outstanding customer service. Mario Kart Racer with flight-stick is the highlight of my home arcade. Thanks Joel and Retro Lizards!

High quality work by Joel. Joel remotely set up my PC without issue and is an expert in this field.

just got my pc from joel and the product is amazing everything works as it should and he's more then helpful

I ordered the pinball drive about a month ago and haven't received any notice of it being shipped yet. I sent a few emails and no reply

Retro lizard has the most quality custom arcade systems. He is very helpful and down to earth person.

Fantastic service and great customer service!

Great Place To enjoy Playing Video Arcade Games

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.