Get these gamers off the sofa

There was a strong sense of community when LSJ News visited nearby Boston this week, and that could even be seen at a local gaming shop.

For many, playing video games in 2019 is a solitary pastime. Or if you do play with others, it’s often over a Wi-Fi connection instead of a genuine social environment like the arcades of the past.

Games Central on Boston’s High Street wants to change all that.

“We’re getting these gamers off their sofas and out of their gaming chairs,” said shop owner Thomas Steadman.

Thomas, who opened the family business last year, has been partnering with local venues to hold regular gaming events that get all ages active and having fun.

“Before, we’ve been to the bowling alley and arranged it so you can play the Wii Bowling and then combine that score with your real bowling score to win a prize,” he said.

For the older generations, Games Central also has consoles and titles that go all the way back to the Atari 2600, which was first released in the UK in 1978.

On Thursday the console will be at Brown’s Cocktail Bar, in an event that will span all three floors.

“You can come and play games that remind you of your childhood – there’s Pacman on the Atari 2600, Goldeneye on the N64, we’ve got the middle section with some PS2 classics like Spyro and Crash Bandicoot, and you can work your way up to the top with the Playstation virtual reality kit,” said Thomas.

Boston has its fair share of options for gamers including specialist chain GAME, larger retailers like Argos and HMV, and the odd bargain at the Cash Generator buy & sell shop. But, Games Central is the only independent outlet in the town.

Thomas added: “The customers that come in automatically have someone to talk to because I’m passionate about gaming and so are they. You don’t get that instant relationship with the bigger businesses.”

What’s On:

• Thursday, March 28: An Evening of Modern and Retro Gaming @ Brown’s Cocktail Bar.
• Friday, April 5: SmackDowns and Strikes @ Boston Bowl.