It's all in the games at Gameworks
If you’re one of those people who enjoys playing games, Gameworks at Showcase Mall on the Las Vegas Strip offers the whole nine yards in amusement and then some. This joint venture between Sega Enterprises and Universal Studios is one for your entire family and potentially all your friends, too – featuring some 200-plus interactive games, it measures about 55,000 square feet and can hold up to 3,000 people.
From racing and motorsports to old-school games like Space Wonder and Pac Man, shooting games, Virtual bowling and virtual dance stations, sports-oriented games and lots more, this mega-arcade has something for everyone, child to adult.
If bowling is right up your alley, you can take in one of Gameworks’ highlights, Virtual Bowling. Sensors detect the speed and direction of a real bowling ball as you roll it down a short lane. The ball then disappears into a “virtual world” and, along with the sound of pins being knocked down, the impact of the ball shows up on a large screen. As in a real bowling alley, there are lots of tables and chairs where you can rest while others take their turn.
For those who prefer life in the fast lane, there are plenty of racing games to keep you occupied. You can race side-by-side against several other drivers in the Indy500. Or you can participate in games based on the popular film “The Fast and the Furious” as well as on the Japanese anime “Initial D,” including going on an “Initial D” motion ride that gives the full effect of mountain drift racing.
Although there is an array of pinball machines and other arcade games, some that will take you back to the days of the original Nintendo, there are also things to do, such as creating their own girl cartoon collector’s card, for the younger female set.
But Gameworks is not all child’s play, especially on the second level where the icicle décor of the Glacier Bar gives adults a respite from the heat of the moment as they enjoy a specialty cocktail or martini. Additionally, there is The Loft for those 21 and older. Comfortable couches, a billiards area, and a view of the arcade level below offers relaxation while being able to keep an eye on the kiddies. If you get hungry, the Gameworks Grill offers pizza, chicken, steak, seafood, ribs, and desserts.
All activities operate off a debit card that can be purchased at the entrance. Guests may also purchase hourly rate cards or an all-day pass. There are VIP rooms that guests can rent for parties or poker games. Gameworks also plans events for large groups or corporations. Let the games begin!
- by Bobbie Katz, Las Vegas Reporter for HelloMetro
(Click to leave a message)
