With the country’s first esports arena set to open next year in Philly, it’s clear that gaming has leveled up from at-home entertainment to a bona-fide sport. Several local venues caught onto the trend, offering a gaming experience that fosters imagination, problem-solving skills, community and, of course, a little friendly competition. If your kids prefer to go old school, places to play tabletop games continue to thrive as well. Either way, one thing’s for sure: This isn’t your parents’ arcade!
Top Spots to Play Esports
Level13, West Chester, Pennsylvania
Complete with dozens of high-end computers and consoles, this esports center features an open-play environment that encourages social interaction. Staff members even provide tips on strategy and technique. Looking to join a league? Opt for Overwatch, Dota 2, CSGO or League of Legends.
The video game arena on the “N3rd Street” corridor — a stretch of North 3rd Street that’s home to several tech startups — hosts events for all skill levels. Esports network Nerd Street Gamers runs a few, including Fortnite Friday tournaments and Wednesday meet-ups where attendees can chat with other players and try a variety of games.
Tap Esports Center, Philadelphia
This recently opened internet café offers favorite PC and console games like Street Fighter V, GTA, Minecraft and Call of Duty Black Ops, as well as snacks and drinks, gaming chairs and tournaments. A rewards program gives visitors opportunities to earn free playing time, T-shirts and other prizes.
Top Spots to Play Tabletop Games
Cyborg One, Doylestown, Pennsylvania
In addition to comics, games and toys, the shop is a popular hangout for local fans of Magic: The Gathering. Join other enthusiasts of the super-popular card game on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays to play in a casual, non-competitive environment.
This tabletop gaming haven boasts a large selection of games and daily events, with an emphasis on welcoming LGBTQ and girl gamers. Stop by on Sundays for a Dragon Ball Super tournament, or on Fridays, try your hand at Magic: The Gathering, Pioneer or Commander.
Alternate Universes, Wilmington, Delaware
Card-game enthusiasts laud this place for its collection of titles including Yu-Gi-Oh!, Pokemon and Dragon Ball Super. Grab a table and play with pals or family anytime the shop is open, or join weekly tournaments and special events.
This shop boasts a bustling events calendar, including board-game nights (Mondays), miniature-demo days (Thursdays), and Magic: The Gathering drafts on select dates. Many visitors say staff and regulars are welcoming, and you’ll often find someone willing to play board games or cards.
The Days of Knights, Newark, Delaware
Tap into your inner nerd with a selection of board, card and role-playing games. Return for frequent board game nights, Magic: The Gathering tournaments & casual play and a Dungeons & Dragons
Comic Fusion, Flemington, New Jersey
While best known for its inventory of comics, graphic novels, trading cards, toys and collectibles, the shop’s busy events calendar boasts Dungeons & Dragons expeditions, Magic: The Gathering meetups and open-play nights.
Tiki Tiki Board Games, Woodbury, New Jersey
In addition to a large selection of new and pre-owned classic titles, the space also offers gaming equipment, accessories, daily open play and, on select Friday nights, a Board Game School for all skill levels.
Top Deck Games, Westmont, New Jersey
There’s something happening daily here. from Dragon Ball Super tournaments (Tuesdays) to Star Wars open gaming nights (Thursdays) to a Pokémon League (Saturdays). Visitors laud the space for its welcoming environment to newbies and regulars alike.
