New Walsall arcade aims to bring back memories of retro gaming

The Retro Realm in Walsall is the first freeplay arcade in the Midlands, working on a pay-to-play admission where people can either book a time slot or an all-day pass to play any of the games, which are set to freeplay with unlimited credits.

There are also monthly membership options available and family and group offers as well.

The Retro Realm has original machines from as far back as 1979 and includes popular classics such as Pac-Man, Street Fighter and Donkey Kong, plus Pinball machines and air hockey tables and a separate diner on site.

Owner Craig Marlow said the arcade on Waterside Place was about bringing back the community spirit of arcades, as well as being a safe place for people.

He said: "We are trying to bring back the community spirit as we remember in the arcades in the 80 and 90s where we would all play arcade games against each other and with people that we had never seen before. 

"This was a great time for the socialising aspect as well as well being. 

"We have made a safe haven for people with disabilities like Adhd and autism, and we will be hold sensory session in the near future. 

"We want everyone from all walks of life and nationalities to enjoy themselves in our environment. 

"We also have staff that have autism, social anxiety, depression and other things and this will be their first job. 

"The beauty of the arcades that people meet new people and don't sit in there bedrooms with zero person to person interaction."

A session lasts two hours and 45 minutes and costs £12.95 for adults and £6.95 for concessions, which a full day ticket costs £17.95 for adults and £12.95 for children.

To find out more and to book a time slot, go to theretrorealm.co.uk