Tilt Studio Dakota Square

Tilt Studio Dakota Square

Reviews Summary

Tilt Studio receives mixed reviews, with strong polarization between 1-star and 5-star ratings. Positive feedback highlights fun games, friendly staff (especially the manager Christian), and family-friendly atmosphere. Many enjoy the variety of attractions and military discounts. However, frequent complaints cite extreme pricing, malfunctioning games (especially claw machines), and unfair ticket redemption. Negative reviews accuse the arcade of being a scam, with rigged machines, poor prize value, and rude or dismissive staff. Cost is a major pain point, with many feeling games are overpriced for short playtime. Some appreciate the experience despite flaws, while others vow never to return due to perceived dishonesty and poor management.

About This Listing

Has Arcade Cabinets
Has Pinball Machines
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 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 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 Arcade Cabinets
Has Pinball Machines
Good for kids
Has Virtual Reality
Has Prizes
Wheelchair Accessible

Contact Information

Address

2400 10th St SW Building E

Minot, North Dakota 58701

Hours

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

Customer Reviews

One of the best date nights of our lives. The games were super great, the food was good, and the atmosphere was nothing short of welcoming. Everything was top level fun and quality. The best part of the night was (I assume) the manager. Extremely courteous, kind and very helpful. Unfortunately I never got his name. But him and the rest of his staff were amazing. Me and my girlfriend are very grateful for this place showing us a great time for a value.

While we do enjoy this arcade I've noticed some games are a ripoff. The claw machines are impossible to win anything. My son had a stuffed animal all the way inside the claw and when it moved the claw opened and dropped it. Fix this issue please because it's happened too many times and at this point you're stealing people's money.

Bumper car was malfunctioning and seemingly not responding to the controls. the worker dismissed family members who were trying to bring attention to the unsettling and unsafe situation. (Car was spinning upside down) A shooting game had a gun malfunctioning which caused players to immediately be eliminated. After bringing this to the workers attention he mentioned in passing he would tell his ?technical support? but never offered to refund my card and didn't seem to alert any other customers to the ripoff

Brand new arcade in the Dakota Square Mall in Minot, ND which is great place to take the family to. It was clean good prizes to pick from. The only thing we didn't care for was the ticket redemption center they only had one machine which you have to use in order to get your tickets from playing the coin machines. The place needs two more ticket redemption machines and sometimes does not put the correct amount tickets on your card and shorts you tickets. So make sure you take a picture and verify it on your

Employees were very rude and unhelpful. A ton of the games were broken or took our points without letting us play. And don't breath or move during laser tag or they will end your time early with no warning. Manager was very rude and unhelpful. We were not offered any other attractions except to play laser tag again, which why would we. We were absolutely not unsafe playing laser tag. We have played laser tag many other times at other places and never have had that before. We did talk to multiple employees

This place is outrageously expensive to play a decent amount of games. $20 gets you 3-5 games if you're lucky! Get air's lite arcade is much cheaper.

The regular manager is great, but one of the 20 year old managers on a power trip told me and my daughter to leave because I was dribbling a basketball while my daughter who is 2 and half years old finished playing skee ball. We spent 5$ playing games in about 10 minutes time close to closing when it's not crowded, I have a VIP card and come all the time. Such a rude worker considering the basketball machine wasn't even working.

I recently went to the Tilt had a lot of fun with the mini golf. Pin ball games are also fun. I bought the $20 card=100 points so the mini golf was around $8=40 points. I think the pin ball was around 6 or 7 points so between $1.00 or $2.00. So not too bad of prices!

Fun place, but not a fan of the point currency system the decimal makes it tough to evenly spend the points. The laser tag is fun but really short game time compared to planet pizza, the course is huge for laser tag but also makes it tough to have fun for smaller groups, our group was 6 so kinda spent more time which is already short trying to find other players than actually playing, but if you have a big group the size of the coarse will be awesome. Still highly recommend to check it out.

The cost of points per play is HIGH! I did the math and some games cost $6.50 to play a minute round. It also seems like the cost of points per play is going up. If the best value is to spend $100 and get 500 points, some of the games that especially don't earn any tickets to redeem shouldn't be 20* points per play.

We took our children to play at tilt in minot. The machines are a scam. We had the prises in the claw and just before it went to the shoot it opened up the claw and dropped the item We had firmly in the claw. I inquired about it and they said that's the way it is. THE GUY LOOKED AT ME LIKE I WAS STUPID AND TREATED ME AS SUCH. Other games were not giving tickets and the point system that they have don't make any sense and try to spend all the money that was loaded onto the card was impossible. If you want to

We enjoy tilt and come frequently. However, we have noticed that more often than not we are waiting longer and longer at the "prize desk" because staff are too busy hanging out or hanging all over one of the managers. Last week two girls were getting in an argument over who would help people get prizes and who would not. One of them wanted to continue her conversation about when she could leave because she hates working. Today on our visit there were minimum 3 families waiting in line while one girl was h

Prices are just to high probably have if you drop 300 bucks just to have some fun with kids. Played one game of roller bowling me and 2 kids charged off 80 credits which is like 20 bucks only let us play 4 frames everything feels about twice as much money as it should be.

Some games were unavailable or kinda worked, it was very bright, loud, and flashing colors from the machines were very overwhelming. It's very much a scam and super expensive. Most prizes You get from tickets are overpriced, you can probably get those prizes for way cheaper online or in stores somewhere. And the games itself are expensive and overall not good quality.

Fun place to hang out or go with your family. Yes games are based on points but works out to 1-2$ per game which compares to most other places. All kinds of arcade and prize games to play. Prizes are a byproduct of having a good time, if your looking to save money on prizes by them online at a store. Attractions are a nice touch.

My family and I love coming here. The managers here are so friendly. Well all the staff is really friendly. They remember our names and ask us how it's going. I love that. There are so many people here always but yet they take the time to make you feel welcome.

Once you get down to 3.5 points on your card games become unplayable. $20 will let you play about 3-4 games. Air hockey last 45 seconds before shutting off. Bowling machine broken. 60% of the games are coin sliders and claw machines.

Goomba.Goomba?Goomba?.. In Tilt Studios' realm of play and fun, Where laughter and joy under the neon sun, An encounter amiss, a Goomba's prize to grasp, In the clutches of the claw, a challenging task. Yet fate turned sour, the machine's heart did fail, Leaving young hopes crushed, a tale to bewail. With points spent like raindrops, hundreds lost in vain, Three managers stood, emotions to contain. A Karen-like figure, hair crowned with might, Asserting her stance, her demeanor so tight, An NPC-like pres

Games are okay, they need to update prize amount signs, can't just change what you owe because ?they're pretty sure it changed? well change your signs or take them down.! False advertising.!!

What a great place for the whole family! Lots of awesome games to play. Definitely coming back.

It was fun but for not long. So expensive for only a half hour. Maybe a fun place. If your fine with the price

fun relatively inexpensive day. had a great experience overall. the general manager christian was very kind and helpful at the ticket counter and answered any questions we had.

The staff was super helpful, and the facility was really nice with a lot of fun games. Also really like the fact that they offered a military discount. Will for sure go again.

Lots of games to play and test your skills. Had a great time here with my 10 year old son. Played multiple games and 18 holes of miniature golf.

Had so much fun! Big shout out to the general manager, Christian?he was so helpful and very welcoming. I would definitely come again; It was so worth it :)!

The claw machines are a joke. Don't put any money into those machines, you will loose 99% of the time. Overall experience BASIC.

I love Tilt Studio. I love coming here. And I won a 5000 ticket bag! Even though it's tough trying to win those. I was lucky.

Cool place. Would be better if their claw machines didn't literally open up when you pick something up. Other than the claw machine SCAM, its a cool place

The most fun I've ever had! The GM, Christian, was such a big help and very professional. Definitely worth the trip!

This place is stupidly overpriced. And so many of the games are either claw machines or coin pushers, which are the least fun for kids.

Way over priced I played 2 games off of 10$ The arcade in the hotel/pool is way cheaper

This place might be the biggest rip off I've ever seen in my life. The games are so expensive that a kid playing around for an hour could bankrupt you.

had such a blast at tilt! GM christian was so nice and helpful! overall a great experience, i would recommend to a friend!

Probly the biggest scam ive seenand theres no way to get ur money back. Also basicaly underage gambling

Rude staff, faulty games and system, too expensive, half of the building is gambling games.

Food is bad they gave us burnt pizza!!! This is outrageous!!! Also one of the white ladys we're giving us attitude!!!

First time going there. It was huge. I would definitely go there again.

It was fun to keep little one busy for a bit

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 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.