The blend of two passions—gaming and travel—is a combination most people can identify with. One easily gets the sense of venturing through new worlds in video games, but it can be translated into real life by exploring culture, history, or innovation around the world in interesting travel destinations. From colourful spots imbued with arcade nostalgia to busy festivals populated with eSports tournaments, there is a whole world out there calling for gamers. In fact, some amazingly unusual places will give gamers their maximal inspiration and allow them to discover new destinations outside the gaming universe.
The Top 5 Unusual Places for Gamers to Visit
Gaming fanatics have encountered endless interesting destinations to choose from; in fact, there are so many out there that picking a few to highlight is a challenge. You’ll find great spots for gamers all across the globe, from Tokyo to Stockholm and everything in between. If you know where to head, you can plunge straight into the rich culture of gaming, museums, and many other interesting places.
District Akihabara, Tokyo
Akihabara is considered to be a Mecca for gamers and otaku culture. This district in Tokyo pulsates with energy, letting guests stroll around its neon-lit streets and discover shops that offer anime and video games. From manga cafes to theme restaurants, and not forgetting the endless arcades, there’s just something fun in every nook and cranny. You can also find some really cool, quirkier shops that sell everything from retro gaming consoles to modern collectibles and rare imports you will not find elsewhere in the world. Be sure to drop in at some of the iconic maid cafes where wait staff dressed as characters will cater to your every whim.
F1 Arcade in London
F1 Arcade is a cool place to visit for anyone who loves old-school games and nostalgia. If you’ve ever set foot in an arcade before, you know the atmosphere full of excitement and the sounds of Space Invaders. Here, you’ll get to enjoy all the old-school favourites, as well as some newer titles that will keep you busy all day. Arcades used to litter the landscape of seaside towns and cities, acting as entertainment hubs for people looking to play coin-machines, slot machines, and games cabinets. Techradar recently published a list of the best arcade games of all time; these will be worth keeping an eye out for at any arcade. While it isn’t as common for people to visit these arcades for the gambling aspect, some venues still offer the classic penny machines. The other games, such as slots and table games, are very rare, so for players looking to revisit those, they’ll have to venture online. CasinoSherlock has a variety of lists, reviews, and guides to help find the games you’re looking for.
Stockholm Gaming Festival in Stockholm
The Stockholm Gaming Festival—this is a promise of paradise for gamers all over the world. Thousands of fans come to visit annually, and the atmosphere is just electric, throwing visitors into different gaming experiences. There is everything from tabletop games and lotteries to the very frontier of technology in eSports. You can play new titles way before their release date or participate in some epic tournaments where you get to compete against the best players.
Seattle’s Museum of Pop Culture
MoPOP is the most treasured place in Seattle for any gamer or enthusiast; it is literally bursting with music, science fiction, and gaming culture. Walking in, the first thing one notices is the exhibition of Kipple comprising the artefacts from some of your favourite games—iconic consoles, character costumes, and highly recognizable art pieces on display. It also regularly hosts events focused on video game history and design. Visitors can participate in panels featuring industry pioneers or even play retro games in designated zones. For a gamer, the PC bangs in Seoul are paradise. In reality, many gaming cafes are loaded with energy, as gamers from all walks of life come to them. The rows of high-end computers, along with comfortable seating, ensure a perfect environment for casual players and hardcore gamers alike.
Las Vegas’ eSports Arena at Luxor Hotel and Casino
Inside the fabled Luxor Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas, this eSports Arena is a gamer’s paradise. The state-of-the-art arena comprises the most ultra-modern technology and is infused with an electrifying atmosphere. Imagine walking into an area that feels it is truly the centre of competitive gaming. Large screens are running live tournaments, and the crowd cheers for their favourite teams. The energy is palpable. Watch the pros in action or try your own hand through different gaming events. There is just something about the energy of being surrounded by people just as passionate as you are that makes everything come alive—be it casual gamers or dedicated fans.
Need-to-know Tips for a Gaming-themed Trip
Planning a gaming vacation can be just as exciting as levelling up in the latest game. First, choose destinations that get you moving, then do your research to find out what is special or visit-worthy at each one in advance. Don’t forget to check on travel blogs and get recommendations from other gamers. Be sure to plan an itinerary that balances out the amount of exploration time with gaming downtime. The local gaming shops or arcades—usually the small, locally owned shops—are often better than the big-name franchises. Also, keep an eye out for local events, such as tournaments where you can meet up with fellow gamers and experience a world of gaming sprinkled with the tastes of new cultures. Even though this is a time of vacationing, be sure not to go overspending—budget wisely. Some places will require more investment than others, especially if you contemplate attending large-scale festivals or famous venues. Nonetheless, what is important is planning the budget in advance and sticking to it. Bring it online before you go. Gamers love to share tips and their personal experiences about different places, so post in gaming forums and appeal for tips on social media.
