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The Underground Arcade

The Underground Arcade

Reviews Summary

This arcade is a fun, family-friendly spot with mostly positive reviews. Many highlight the free games, helpful staff, and great birthday party options, including the Nerf Zone. While some note mediocre food or rundown games, most praise the clean facility and wholesome atmosphere. A few mention issues with party hosting or value for money, but overall it's considered a wonderful place for kids and events. The nonprofit aspect and safe zone for supervised visits add to its appeal. Most reviewers rate it highly, especially for its nostalgic charm and affordable entertainment.

About This Listing

Has Retro Games
Has Arcade Cabinets
Has Food
Good for kids
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.

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 Arcade Cabinets
Has Food
Good for kids
Has Prizes
Wheelchair Accessible

Contact Information

Address

306 E Main St

Stockton, California 95202

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Monday 11AM-5PM
Tuesday 11AM-5PM
Wednesday 11AM-5PM
Thursday 11AM-8PM
Friday 11AM-5PM
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Customer Reviews

Good place for a birthday party. The food is decent. Good salad and mediocre pizza. Some or the games are pretty rundown. There is ticket games that cost quarters but the ticket prizes are very lackluster. Helpful staff on hand. Non profit so all proceeds go to a good.

I had my son?s birthday party here and although he had a great time I felt I didn't quite get what I paid for. It says you get a host I wouldn't really call it a host at all. I hosted that thing myself completely. I emailed the facility about a week before the party and it took a week to get a reply which is a long time if you paid $350 upfront. I usually go to places like sky zone for much cheaper and come with more. Overall the food was good I just felt for that much money and to pay upfront it's not wort

Clean and fun facility for kids birthday party. Friendly staff - not the best part of town but street parking was readily available and had no issues downtown. Kids loved their Nerf Zone for Nerf gun battles.

What a quaint fun throwback wholesome bit of fun Most of it is free and you get in free if you eat at the Plaza which we did It's clean and well taken care of Loved all the old games Attendant very helpful Low key fun My 12 year old son loved it

Our family loved it! The staff was extremely helpful. The party space is huge we didn't have 50 people, but 50 people would have fit comfortably. The restaurant that provides food was really good. Definitely recommend!

You can rent it for $350 dollars for some hours on a Sunday have the whole thing to your self for a birthday party or whatever kinda function. It's Free Monday-Saturday. There are other restaurants inside open Monday-Friday part of the money helps out the downtown school. It's a safe zone for parents to meet for legal purposes for child visitations who have to have supervised kids visits. The arcade is so fun they even have the throw backs from the 1970s-2000s games, they have prizes for the games that p

I visited this place at night, when it was closed. I went there for a night ghost hunt. It was really fun to explore the building. We had a lot of fun. The paranormal group was so nice and helpful. ??????

We just had an event. It was perfect. And the staff was very helpful. I will have more events. Thank you?

Wonderful place to have a kids party. Nerf gun room and arcade. Staff was extremely helpful.

Wonderful place for Birthday parties and something for kids to do.

Most of the games are free, can't beat that!

Great spot. Kids and family loved it!

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.

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.