Venture into Hong Kong's top arcades and game centres, where the nostalgia of retro gaming blends with immersive experiences for every kind of gamer.
Forget another night glued to online games or belting out karaoke tunes, Honeys! Hong Kong is the ultimate playground for fun-seekers. Of course, you could stick to League of Legends or whip out the board games with your flatmates. But with so many throwback game arcades and game centres just around the corner of your home, why would you want to stay cooped up indoors? So, join us as we dive into Hong Kong’s eclectic arcades and game centres instead.
Quarters up! A gamer’s guide to the best arcades and game centres in Hong Kong
1. Game Zone
Our go-to game centre in Hong Kong is Game Zone. It keeps the adrenaline pumping into the wee hours, dishing up a mix of intense gaming duels and non-stop dancing. If competitive gameplay is your jam, you can get stuck into classic fighters like King of Fighters and Tekken. Or, gather your mates for some friendly one-on-one on the linked Street Fighter 5 machines – it’s brilliant fun! And if busting moves is more your style, go solo or take on your pals in a Just Dance-style face-off on Danz Base and Dance Evolution Arcade. The top-up card system here makes paying to play easy peasy – just load one up at the counter when you walk in.
Game Zone has several locations across Hong Kong.
2. Retrocity Concept
Retrocity Concept might have a sleek, modern look, but inside, it’s a retreat for those itching for a blast from the past. Situated right in the city centre, this place invites you to relive the glory days of old-time video arcade games. It’s not all about hitting the top score, though; you’ve also got the chance to grab classic games to spruce up your own collection at home.
Retrocity Concept, LG23, LG/F, Houston Centre, 63 Mody Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong, p. 6576 6680
3. Jumpin Gym USA
Arcade games are a blast, but they’re not always a hit with the whole family. Enter Jumpin Gym USA, the famous indoor wonderland that’s got something for everyone, no matter your age! This place has been the go-to for kiddie thrills since the 90s. The claw machines are a crowd pleaser, offering the cutest plushies ready for the taking. Not feeling lucky at the notorious Coin Toss Rainbow booth? Try your luck (and skill) at the basketball shooting machine and the Train Coin Pusher – our all-time favourites! Remember to redeem some delightful rewards with your tickets, too.
Jumpin Gym USA has multiple locations across Hong Kong.
4. Silvercord Amusement & Games
Hidden beneath the Silvercord mall in Tsim Sha Tsui, Silvercord Amusement & Games offers arcade delights, alive with the buzz of gaming day and night. Should the urge for a rhythmic duel strike, snag a friend, march up to the original Taiko Master, and hammer out the beats to your heart’s content. For the speed demons among us, strap in for an adrenaline-pumping jaunt on one of the 16 Wangan Midnight Maximum Tune 5 or Initial D Stage Zero racing simulators. And the best bit? With doors open from 8am right through to 2am, this game centre in Hong Kong is your perfect pit stop for a splash of nostalgic fun or a fierce bout of competition.
Silvercord Amusement & Games, B03, B/F, Silvercord, 30 Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong, p. 2730 3632
5. Namco
Pulsing with bright lights and a rainbow of colours, Namco is one of our favourite arcades and game centres in Hong Kong. Step into any of its locations and you’ll find a world where traditional arcade machines make room for gacha wonders and a vibrant coin toss that’s pure carnival fun. Come and round up your pals for a blast at the Pac-Man Smash Air Hockey table, then mellow out in a Purikura photo booth, adding a dash of whimsy to your snaps with kawaii filters and effects. When it’s time to take it easy, grab a seat at the free-to-play Nintendo Switch area. It’s the perfect place to unwind and flex those gaming muscles in a laid-back atmosphere.
Namco has multiple locations across Hong Kong.
FAQs about game arcades and game centres in Hong Kong
What is the meaning of game arcade?
A game arcade is a public venue filled with coin-operated video games, pinball machines, and other interactive entertainment devices that people can play for a social and interactive gaming experience. Arcades were once highly popular but have declined in recent decades as home gaming has become more prevalent.
Do arcade games still exist?
Yes, arcade games still exist, though they have declined in popularity compared to their heyday. While many of these large arcades in Hong Kong have closed down over the years, you can still find smaller arcades and game centres in shopping malls, family entertainment complexes, and some residential areas.
Older generations of Hong Kong residents often have fond memories of spending time at the bustling arcades of their youth, contributing to a lingering nostalgic demand. There are also some modern arcades, offering a variety of classic and newer arcade games, as well as some other interactive entertainment options like VR setups.
Are arcade games still popular?
While arcade games still have a presence in Hong Kong, their popularity has declined over the years as home gaming and digital entertainment have become more widespread. Nostalgic demand from older generations maintains a modest arcade gaming scene, but arcades are no longer the dominant entertainment hubs they once were in the city.
Why do people like arcade games?
Arcade games captivate players with their tactile controls, social atmosphere, and nostalgic appeal. The instant gratification and competitive nature of high scores and leaderboards offer unique gaming experiences that are difficult to fully replicate at home, making arcades an enduring draw for enthusiasts seeking a blend of fun and challenge.
