Retroscape Video Game Lounge, located at 1123 Princess Street in Wilmington, North Carolina, opened in March 2021, co-founded by Dylan and Ann Marie Pierce. Conceived as Wilmington’s inaugural vintage video game lounge, the establishment offers a wide array of gaming systems spanning from the 1970s to contemporary consoles, including Atari, Nintendo GameCube, PlayStation 4, and virtual reality experiences, alongside hundreds of classic titles and old-style board games. The venue also features a selection of video games available for purchase and includes a reservable “Cave” for private gatherings.
Designed to evoke the comfortable atmosphere of a friend’s basement, Retroscape distinguishes itself from typical barcades by focusing on a non-alcoholic, family-friendly environment. It functions as a dedicated “third space” for the community, encouraging socialization and the forging of relationships among patrons of all ages, from youth to seasoned gamers. Since its opening, Retroscape has steadily grown in popularity, hosting special events such as Pokémon Festivals and CTWS Regionals, and has expanded its offerings to serve as a hub for nostalgia and communal entertainment in the Wilmington area.