Saturn 5 Arcade

Saturn 5 Arcade

Reviews Summary

The arcade receives mixed reviews, with many praising its clean environment, fun games, and friendly staff (especially Mike), making it great for families. However, several negative reviews highlight rude behavior from an older employee, poor customer service, and unwelcoming attitudes, particularly towards children. While some visitors enjoy the modern/vintage game mix and reasonable prices, others criticize the high cost and lack of refunds. Overall, positive experiences often depend on interactions with specific staff members.

About This Listing

Has Retro Games
Has Fighting Games
Has Arcade Cabinets
Good for kids
Has Virtual Reality
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.

What to Expect from Virtual Reality in Arcades

Step into virtual reality for a breathtaking adventure! Arcade VR stations boast advanced headsets (like Oculus or HTC Vive), motion controllers, and sometimes full-body tracking or treadmills. You’ll dive into games like Beat Saber or VR shooters, swinging, dodging, or aiming in 360-degree worlds with vivid visuals and immersive sound. Gameplay spans solo quests to multiplayer battles, with intuitive controls for all levels. Arcades offer vibrant, social VR zones, delivering a thrilling, cutting-edge experience 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 Fighting Games
Has Arcade Cabinets
Good for kids
Has Virtual Reality
Has Prizes
Wheelchair Accessible

Contact Information

Address

250 Westshore Plaza

Tampa, Florida 33609

Hours

Monday 11AM-8PM
Tuesday 11AM-8PM
Wednesday 11AM-8PM
Thursday 11AM-8PM
Friday 10AM-9PM
Saturday 10AM-9PM
Sunday 12-6PM

Customer Reviews

The girls loved the space invaders big screen,motor cycle racing and the mini merry-go-round. The place was clean and the employees were helpful with purchasing a game card.

Nice little arcade. Machines use a card system (the norm for arcades now) which was easy to set up / buy using the self serve system

I really don't appreciate being spoken to like I am an idiot. You don't want to allow drinks, no problem. It's an arcade, it makes sense. Don't make it a point to walk all the way to the front of the store and point to the no drinks sign. We trusted you and believed you before you made it a public show in front of my children. I don't know how much money I would have spent here but I know that number will be 0 from now on and into the future.

To the very rude elderly employee that snatched a gun out of my child's hands today when he was simply playing the game, is there a reason you were too cowardly to give your name when my husband asked? Is there a reason you were too cowardly to explain your actions, even if no answer would be justified. Is there a reason you followed us to the food court and sat across from us while staring? We have visited almost every Tuesday until today. We have continued to visit even after employees have been obviousl

My daughter has been coming here to play ever since she started walking. She loooves to come here and can play for hours. The place is super clean the machines are kids friendly. We definitely have a blast everytime we go and we go atleast 1-3 times a week if not more.

We used this place to take a couple pictures on my camera. We were extremely respectful of the games and other guests (there weren't many people until about 10 minutes before we left) the owner or manager never came up to us at any point during the entire hour we were there but as we were leaving he asked if we went to UT and I responded no, we don't. He apparently didn't hear my response and followed us out of the arcade into the main mall and started yelling at me and the two girls i was with and using pr

The older gentleman is rude he stalks you. He has zero personality. You walk in and are looking at the games and he lets you know rt away you can't look or be in there if you not spending money. Don't know how he can work around kids. I had $100 to spend but would never give him my money. Doesn't say hi to the kids doesn't say hey welcome look around, come play some games. We only spent $20 and as we left, he didn't say thank you for coming he just with his rude look on his face he has zero personality.

Great little arcade with 2000s games. Their prices are pretty reasonable especially for a shopping mall spot, most games are $1 per play and $20 will probably be enough. They do have some classic games but they are on modern multicade cabinets. I've been wanting to stop here for a while, I'm glad I did. For a family with kids this is a great place to take a break from the mall for a bit. Owner is very friendly.

Been here several times with the kids. Clean...good modern/vintage selection, and the games are reasonably priced. The kids enjoy the claw games and actually win (multiple times)! Gentleman working there, assuming the owner, is helpful and has a welcoming personality. A+

Thanks to the owners/proprietors; I was able to bring my kids to the same mall to play in an arcade -- that I did in the 80s: Westshore Plaza, Dream Machine is back--with a modern twist. My kids LOVED it, and the gentleman there explained everything in detail and provided direct assistance with a great, friendly attitude. Please become a regular there, do bday parties there, keep this wonderful place going!

We (two millennials and their school age kids) had a fantastic time here at Saturn 5. The staff member on duty was attentive and helpful. All machines were in great shape. The terminator light gun cabinet had a calibration problem and the staff member fixed it immediately instead of ignoring the issue. Clean. Awesome decor. A little warm inside, but not unbearable. The claw machines actually dispensed prizes. There was a multicade unit with tons of old snk games, could possibly use a better monitor as I not

Very poor service. We paid for a card for our family and they asked us to leave before closing time without offering us any type of refund before our card was used. We only had 20 credits left to use and we would have finished before it was time. Very disappointing. We explained we lived out of state without any way to use the card but didn't matter.

The gentleman working here is so nice!! Thanks for showing us around and making our experience here better. Can't wait to come back

Small but very clean, great games, and the staff (Mike) is incredible. My family played there recently and had a blast. Glad we found it!!

If your ever in Tampa be sure to check this place out. Great entertainment for children And adults. I highly recommend

Great little arcade to entertain kids and adults. Very clean and fun for all ages!!!

Great place to take my grandson Fun games and Mike the staff member was incredible

It was AMAZING ?? ME AND MY CHILDREN ARE SATISFIED MIKE WAS AWESOME ??

Was rude to my nephews (who are respectful and nice) so won't be getting my business

SHOCKING FUN hidden in this plaza!!!

Nice little spot but expensive for sure.. Only played three games for $10

Awesome fun for the kids. Nice break between shops.

Fun place the guy working there was very helpful.

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.

Are virtual reality games in arcades worth playing?

Yes, virtual reality (VR) games in arcades are a top attraction in 2025! Titles like Beat Saber and Half-Life: Alyx deliver immersive thrills with cutting-edge headsets, motion tracking, and responsive controllers. High-resolution displays and spatial audio create heart-pounding experiences, from slashing rhythms to battling zombies. Arcades feature multiplayer VR zones and tournaments, fostering lively communities. VR booths are regularly packed, proving their captivating, next-level gameplay makes them a must-try arcade experience.

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.