Ipswich’s first ‘barcade’ has opened its doors to the public - offering gamers a vast range of modern and retro consoles as well as a virtual reality suite and VIP area.
The Press Start gaming lounge, next to RBS on Princes Street, is the brainchild of friends Liam Eley, Morris Grant and his brother Paul Grant who decided to set up the business after a trip Liam took to America.
Seeing how gaming lounges had taken off stateside, the trio were eager to bring the idea across the Atlantic.
The three friends worked tirelessly to prepare for the launch putting the finishing touches to the venue just hours before letting people in to play.
“I was looking to open some type of cafe at the time,” said Morris, “and then we thought why not open a gaming cafe.”
The venue boasts an impressive range of modern consoles as well as retro systems, an arcade machine and pinball tables set in a 3000 sq feet lounge.
“In our heads it was much smaller but now we’ve got 20 modern systems, a VR room - it was way bigger than we planned,” said Liam.
If you would like to play in style, the lounge also offers a VIP area - with a massive 60 inch 4K TV, surround sound system and luxurious sofas.
But Liam says the most popular part of the lounge is the VR room, decked out with a top-of-the-range HTC Vive headset.
“The virtual reality is definitely the most popular part, said Liam, “Everyone that goes in there is blown away by it.”
The trio are looking to hold gaming tournaments at the venue within the next week or two and a leader board to keep a log of the best scores for the virtual reality games.
The venue also has a deal with nearby Smokey Joes, meaning gamers can order food and have it brought to them as they play.
For more see www.psglounge.com
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