Arcade Odyssey

When I was much younger, 8-11 yrs old living in Orlando, my dad used to take me and my cousins to the arcade all the time on any given weekend just for the sake of having fun. Those are the only memories I have of a place that’s purely just about the games and isn't a huge outing like going to Dave n Busters (I enjoy that place too, but this isn't about them right now). Arcade Odyssey is very laid back. When you walk in there’s a narrow walk way with arcade games all around the room, obviously, and people who seem to be there solely to enjoy themselves and nothing else. There aren’t any high ceilings or cool lights, or nice stairs or a dining part, there’s just one main desk that sells a few small snacks and everything else is strictly about the games. I don't know about you but I don't ALWAYS want to dress up or go to a major destination to have a night of fun. "Low-key" is probably an understatement when describing this place which means you probably never even heard of this place because it’s in what seems like a super random plaza.

What I really liked is that it reminded me of my childhood before cool interactive video games like Wii and virtual reality headsets were popular. It’s just you, a few joysticks and plenty of tokens to keep trying until you get the score you want. Speaking of tokens, it’s incredibly reasonable to have fun on a budget here. I spent $10 to get 33 tokens for two people to use and felt like I bought too many. TEN. DOLLARS. That’s a steal for a night out. The tokens are sold in smaller and larger quantities that are still just as reasonable as the 33 tokens for $10 option.

They also have a computer lab here for the more serious gamers. Some of us like joysticks and others like computer keys and there’s nothing wrong with that! I prefer the games that require tokens because I'm childish and still living out my childhood Chuck E. Cheese fantasies present day. (kidding, I think) They have pinball machines, an air hockey table, Dance Dance Revolution, of course Pac Man, and sooo many more favorites from your childhood that will make you either light up when you see them or have instant nostalgia.

Price: Reasonable. Affordable. If you want to have fun on a budget, this is your place.

Occasion: Come here anytime. Hanging with friends, a date nights, you miss the being a kid without responsibilities, literally any reason.

Dress code: Come however you want. I always feel comfortable and relaxed when I come here so whatever screams comfort for you, wear that. Depending on how competitive you are, you might break a sweat on the air hockey table so keep that in mind. Actually, that probably only happens to me and all I have to say about that is I’m.playing.to.win.every.time.

Decor: The games fill every wall so there isn't really much to say here. The decor is “arcade” so think about the fun and not the walls. But I will say it's clean here! Gotta love a place who cares about cleanliness.

Basically, if you want to have a lot of fun on a budget or maybe even relive your childhood, this place would be perfect. No glitz and glam, just fun.