Gameworks of Minneapolis: Kid's Entertainment for Grownups

Ever get nostalgic for your days of arcade-hopping as a kid? Wish you could return to those wonderful places of bright lights and electronic noise, but are too embarrassed? Have you ever wanted to enjoy a public video game venue where you're allowed to have a beer in your hand as you play?

Fear not: the Gameworks franchise was created just for people like you. At one of the hoppin'-est parts of downtown Minneapolis, Hennepin Avenue's version of this 15-location national chain is a combination arcade, pizza joint, bar, and bowling alley, and it seems to be the brainchild of planners with their fingers on the pulse of the local twenty-somethings. While the occasional teenager or family combination can be seen frequenting Gameworks, attending as a group of adults never feels strange or awkward.

The well-stocked bar at the very middle of the arcade certainly helps. The drinks are good, here, and they're strong. And of course, there's nothing like playing old-school pinball with a hefty buzz from a cold mug of Summit.

The selection of games is a combination of a few old favorites with a large number of arcade-only, high tech machines and emulators (there's even a virtual reality console). You can get your DDR fix, here, but you can also enjoy non-video options like Ski Ball (and yes, you can exchange tickets for cheapo prizes).

If you don't miss inconvenience of fumbling for quarters with each play, you'll appreciate Gameworks' rechargeable credits card. The credits are reasonably priced and its easy to get a good night's entertainment without breaking the bank, even if you're less than a wiz at gaming.

The establishment's two-story setup contains enough new establishments to keep most vistors from getting bored, but if you do tire of the arcade, there's a full-service bowling alley, and it's relatively divorced from the noise and action of the arcade area.

And if that beer buzz stimulates your appetite? You can order pizza in the restaurant, or you can catch a quick snack from - get this - one of several vending machines located throughout the bar.

Gameworks may have some flaws. This is not an establishment for hard core gamers, and the drinks can be a bit on the pricey side. But within easy walking distance of the nearest light rail stop, you can forego the cab fare if you overindulge.

Check out Gameworks at www.gameworks.com.