Everett Arcade Opens Downtown
Everett. A new venue dedicated to retro gaming and family entertainment has launched in the city's downtown district. The Side Quest: Coplay Arcade Lounge, located at 1313 Hewitt Ave., commenced operations on Wednesday following an official ribbon-cutting ceremony. The facility occupies a space exceeding 3,600 square feet and provides the community with access to pay-by-the-hour gaming and an assortment of pop culture merchandise, including items such as LEGO sets and Star Trek-themed dress-up kits.
The business was founded by a couple who began amassing vintage arcade equipment approximately one year ago. Their initial acquisition was a four-player cabinet based on The Simpsons, motivated by a desire for shared family activities. The enterprise is driven by a commitment to providing a secure environment for local youth to socialize and experience the recreational atmosphere familiar to their parents' generation.
"We're kind of a gaming family, so we've just always collected old consoles," one owner stated.
The owners emphasized the importance of establishing a designated "third place" for children, noting that such dedicated gathering spots are frequently absent from many municipalities. "This is what really tailors really well to younger kids, but also a lot of different-aged people will still enjoy it," an owner added.
The venue maintains a strictly family-friendly policy, excluding shooting games from its catalog. Pricing for access is set at $10 per hour or $25 for a full-day pass. The establishment also offers various snack options. In addition to electronic entertainment, the location features pool and foosball tables for patrons seeking alternatives to screens.
Prior to the official opening, the venue had already attracted an after-school demographic, with young visitors utilizing vintage Ninja Turtles and Mario cabinets immediately. The inventory includes titles popular in the 1990s, such as Mortal Kombat and NBA Jam, along with Neo Geo hardware. The owners continue to pursue the acquisition of additional equipment, specifically targeting titles like Dance Dance Revolution.
Everett City Council member Paula Rhyne attended the ribbon-cutting to witness the opening. She noted that it is heartwarming to see the downtown space occupied by this family's business. "Businesses like this really fulfill the vision of what we all have for downtown Everett," Rhyne said.