Barcadia: A New Era of Retro Gaming and Nightlife in Cape Town

3 mins read
retro gaming nightlife

Barcadia in Cape Town is a unique combination of a retro arcade bar and contemporary gaming hub. With classic arcade games, a PlayStation 5, and a Stern KISS pinball machine, Barcadia caters to both old-school and modern gamers. Visitors can enjoy freshly made popcorn and a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks while taking in the vintage ambiance of the venue. Entry is limited to adults aged 21 and over, and Barcadia is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 6 pm to 2 am.

What is Barcadia in Cape Town?

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Barcadia is a combination of retro arcade bar and contemporary gaming haven located at 62 Hout Street in Cape Town. It offers a visually captivating setting with classic arcade games, modern gaming choices, and refreshing beverages. Barcadia is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 6 pm to 2 am, and entry is limited to individuals aged 21 and above.

A thrilling transformation is taking place in Cape Town’s nightlife scene with the arrival of Barcadia, a groundbreaking combination of retro arcade bar and contemporary gaming haven. Situated at 62 Hout Street, Barcadia is the first establishment of its kind in the city, breathing new life into Cape Town’s vibrant entertainment landscape.

Ambiance and Decor

Upon entering Barcadia, guests are immediately whisked back in time, feeling a rush of nostalgia as they observe the checkered patterned floor and custom-designed neon signs gracing the walls. Classic characters such as Mario and Sonic the Hedgehog contribute to the vintage ambiance, inviting customers into an extraordinary world where gaming history meets modern ingenuity.

Gaming Selection

Barcadia’s allure extends beyond its nostalgic decor, offering an extensive variety of gaming choices to satisfy both old-school aficionados and modern gamers alike. For those yearning for a blast from the past, a collection of authentic arcade game machines from 30 years ago is available, showcasing ageless classics like Rave Racer, Mortal Kombat, Street Fighter, Terminator 2, and Tekken 3. Pac-Man, a quintessential symbol of arcade gaming, also has a prominent presence within Barcadia’s confines.

Modern gaming enthusiasts will discover a PlayStation 5 connected to a TV behind the bar. To ensure that the gaming experience remains dynamic and captivating, Barcadia frequently updates its assortment of games. However, the primary attraction, a Stern KISS pinball machine, stays as a constant feature within the venue.

Refreshments and Light Bites

Although Barcadia currently does not serve a full food menu, guests can savor freshly made popcorn while embarking on their gaming adventures. The beverage selection is equally appealing, comprising 1-litre beer jugs and an array of draught beers on tap. Moreover, a variety of budget-friendly non-alcoholic drinks, including lemonade, coke, diet coke, and tonic, are available for just R10 each.

Age Restrictions and Business Hours

As Barcadia is an adult gaming wonderland, entry is strictly limited to individuals aged 21 and above. The venue operates from Tuesday to Saturday, opening its doors at 6 pm and closing them at 2 am.

Exclusive Cape Town Etc Discount

For those eager to explore Cape Town’s entertainment offerings at a fraction of the cost, consider taking advantage of the Cape Town Etc discount. Accessible on their website, this promotion presents a variety of enticing options tailored to different interests and budgets.

Barcadia represents a refreshing addition to Cape Town’s nightlife scene, presenting a one-of-a-kind fusion of vintage arcade games and cutting-edge gaming within a visually captivating setting. Its blend of nostalgic decor, stimulating gaming choices, and tempting refreshments make it an essential destination for anyone seeking an exhilarating, inventive experience in the city.

What type of games can be found at Barcadia in Cape Town?

Barcadia offers a range of classic arcade games and modern gaming options. Visitors can enjoy vintage games such as Rave Racer, Mortal Kombat, Street Fighter, Terminator 2, and Tekken 3, as well as a PlayStation 5 and a Stern KISS pinball machine.

What type of ambiance can be expected at Barcadia?

Barcadia has a retro ambiance, with custom-designed neon signs, checkered patterned floors, and classic gaming characters such as Mario and Sonic the Hedgehog. The vintage decor creates a nostalgic atmosphere that transports visitors back in time.

What type of refreshments are available at Barcadia?

Barcadia currently does not offer a full food menu, but visitors can enjoy freshly made popcorn and a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. The beverage selection includes budget-friendly options such as 1-litre beer jugs and draught beers on tap, as well as non-alcoholic options such as lemonade, coke, diet coke, and tonic.

What are the age restrictions for entry into Barcadia?

Entry into Barcadia is limited to adults aged 21 and over. This policy is in place to ensure that the venue remains a mature and responsible environment for visitors to enjoy.

What are the business hours for Barcadia?

Barcadia is open from Tuesday to Saturday, from 6 pm to 2 am. Visitors can enjoy a night of gaming and refreshments within these hours.

Is there any exclusive discount available for Barcadia visitors?

Yes, visitors can take advantage of the Cape Town Etc discount available on their website. The promotion offers enticing options tailored to different interests and budgets, making it an excellent opportunity to explore Cape Town’s entertainment offerings at a fraction of the cost.

What is the location of Barcadia in Cape Town?

Barcadia is located at 62 Hout Street in Cape Town. It is in the heart of the city and easily accessible by public transport or car.

Does Barcadia offer any additional services or amenities?

At present, Barcadia primarily offers a gaming and refreshment experience. However, visitors can look forward to more exciting developments and offerings in the future.

Tumi Makgale is a Cape Town-based journalist whose crisp reportage on the city’s booming green-tech scene is regularly featured in the Mail & Guardian and Daily Maverick. Born and raised in Gugulethu, she still spends Saturdays bargaining for snoek at the harbour with her gogo, a ritual that keeps her rooted in the rhythms of the Cape while she tracks the continent’s next clean-energy breakthroughs.

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