We're trading shopping arcades for the much better version: shoot ’em ups, beat ’em ups and drive...'em ups? Doesn't really work but sure, why not. Whether it’s an old classic you want to revisit, a mental import that you have no idea how to play, the latest innovation or some faux-gambling, these arcades have them all.
Looking for more inspiration on things to do around Singapore? Why not check out our guide on the city's best parks and when you finally crawl out of the arcade, discover what you can do in Singapore at 3am.
This Singaporean mainstay has locations all over the city but we suggest their massive flagship at Vivocity. On top of newfangled techologies like the 4-D rollercoaster, there's a distinctly old school carnival feel here with bumber cars, mini bowling and arcade-style basketball.
If you ask the hardcore Singaporean gaming contingent where's the best 'proper' gaming arcade in the city, they'll probably all point to Virtualand at NEX. It's particularly good for rhythm and racing games but also has a selection of casual games if you want to go slow and take things easy.
Yip, that's what it's actually called. Much like Timezone, the focus here is more on 'physical' arcade games – claw grabber things (that's its official name, probably) and gambling games where you can win tickets that you exchange for prizes. This is good first date material if you fancy something a bit different.
One of the cheapest locations on the list. You can indulge in some serious racing here as well as a fairly comprehensive selection of the latest fighting games and... skiing. Which is nice.
Okay, so this isn't strictly an arcade. But, it's so unique that it deserves a shout-out and the premise is fundamentally the same: play games in a public place with an optional social component. Okay, disclaimer over. So, what is Saint Games? It's a games cafe (cough, arcade). Grab a warm beverage, pull up a pew and challenge someone among the friendly regulars and newcomers to a game of Fifa or NBA or something else from the formidable selection of games across a number of consoles.
You're in for a night of retro arcade game and boozy beverages at Level Up, a new lifestyle concept that combines all that with Asian-inspired bar snacks, local music and everything else that makes a 90s kid's heart sing.
Take a break from the thrilling rides by finding respite at Hollywood China Arcade in Universal Studios Singapore. The large arcade complete with marble floors is split into three sections: one filled with racers like Daytona, another with claw catchers and the last for virtual challenges that dole out tickets that you can redeem for prizes.
This is not your average arcade, so don't come expecting the conventional Daytona and Time Crisis machines. Instead, Zero Latency brings you to a whole new dimension thanks to virtual reality tech. With nerve-wrecking storylines and scenarios, the games get your heart racing in no time. Gear up in the provided bodysuit and you're ready to go.
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