SARASOTA – A new business on the Suncoast is the site where old generation of gaming clashes with the latest high tech game consoles.
From the neon lights that steal your attention, to the sound of the pinball machines going off, and you can’t miss the echo of several gamers clicking away to score the perfect combo and the new high score.
Located at 326 John Ringling Blvd on St. Armand’s Circle – Arcade Monster is a self-described haven for video game nerds everywhere.
“It’s kinda like a nerd – nerd haven where people come make life-long friends.” said owner Adrian Ravelo. “Kinda their after-work release for people who don’t really have outlets and don’t have a safe haven to go to.”
The new business in town recently settled into their third location on Lido Beach and is breathing life back to the traditional arcade experience, but with an added twist.
Offering more than a hundred retro arcade games mixed with contemporary console games you can find just about any of your favorites.
“If the game is inside Arcade Monsters you know it’s one of the best games on the planet,” said Ravelo. “It’s something that you most likely cannot play at home.”
Ravelo is the genius behind this unique attraction. He says growing he’s always had an appreciation for video game thanks in part to his father owning an arcade at one point.
But Arcade Monsters is more than just a groovy hangout spot to immerse yourself into the virtual world. It also serves as a restaurant and bar.
And as if the mere décor isn’t enough to make Arcade Monsters standout at you. The two-story arcade brings different generations of gamers together and at times leads to forming new alliances “online.”
“It brings all ages of gamers together in one place,” said Ravelo.
The prices of entry varies in order for you to get your game on. For more information you can visit arcademonsters.com.