Nostalgic New Arcade Concept Is Bringing Back Childhood in a Big Way

Chuck E. Cheese is getting a glow-up, and this time, it’s for the grown-ups. The iconic arcade-and-pizza chain just launched Chuck’s Arcade, a new concept designed to give adults a chance to relive their joystick-filled glory days without needing a kid in tow.

So far, 10 Chuck’s Arcade locations have opened in shopping malls across eight states, including Florida, Oklahoma, and New York, with more on the way, Restaurant Business reported. 

And while it still carries the DNA of the chain’s “where a kid can be a kid” roots, this spin-off is all about letting adults drop their stress, and a few tokens, on everything from Ms. Pac-Man and Donkey Kong to VR shooters and racing simulators.

Want tickets and prizes? Some locations still have them. Want animatronics? Charles Entertainment Cheese himself makes an appearance. Prefer your nostalgia with a slice of pizza? A flagship Chuck’s Arcade and Pizzeria has already opened in Kansas City, Mo., and future locations may also offer full food menus.

The vibe? According to the brand’s tagline: “All the vibes, none of the drama.”

“Chuck E. Cheese has spent decades mastering the arcade experience,” CEO David McKillips said. “Chuck’s Arcade is a natural evolution—an opportunity to extend our legacy into new formats that engage both lifelong fans and a new generation.”

This latest move is part of a larger comeback strategy for the Dallas-based chain, which filed for bankruptcy in 2020. Since then, it’s leaned hard into brand nostalgia, launching a Christmas cartoon special, exploring a reality competition show, and partnering with Westgate Resorts to bring arcades into vacation properties.

Whether you’re a Gen Xer, elder millennial, or just someone who misses the rush of watching those paper tickets pile up, Chuck’s Arcade is designed to scratch that childhood itch. 

Just be warned—it might be harder to beat your old Galaga high score than you remember.