Make way for some seriously nerdtastic nightlife, Tempe.
Plans to build a gaming bar, or "barcade," is currently in the works thanks to Arizona State University alum Ryan Scott, and his geeky co-founders Nikki DelRosso and Mike Goosens. The predominantly console-based entertainment venue, named Endgame, is currently being funded online through Kickstarter with a projected goal of $30,000 by Monday, June 16. As of Thursday, June 5, Endgame has accumulated 47 backers and a little over $3,000.
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Set to open as early as fall of 2014 and as late as spring of 2015, Endgame is designed to offer a wide array of new and old-school video games, with systems such as NES and PS4 at individual tables plus rotating arcade cabinets, game streaming TVs at the bar, and card and board games such as Cards Against Humanity and Munchkin. They've also partnered with AZHP Gaming to host regular tournaments.
Endgame plans to carry not only a large inventory of games but also a fully stocked bar with local beers on tap and gamer-crafted cocktails like the "Pan-Galactic Gargle Blaster" and "vodka Pokéballs." As for keeping its gamers fueled, Endgame would like to sublet 2,000 square feet of its proposed 9,000 square foot property to a rotation of local food trucks.
Daily gaming cover will cost $10, with a small section of the establishment reserved for minors during the day. Local backers of Endgame's Kickstarter page will receive gaming credits for future use and free access during their first visit.
Those in the Tempe gaming community may already be familiar with Endgame thanks to its monthly gaming events (or beta tests) currently hosted at 699 South Mill Avenue, Suite 201 (formerly the home of Antar's Sports Bistro and conveniently next to the computer lab of ASU's Ira A. Fulton School of Engineering). Should Endgame obtain its pledge goal of $30,000, it aims to obtain its liquor license and continue using the space full-time.
Endgame's next gaming event will be held Saturday, June 14, from noon to 10 p.m. Games, pizza, and non-alcoholic drinks will be provided. This is an all-ages event. For more information, visit Endgame on Kickstarter or check out the event on Facebook.