Reliving my glory days at Hamilton's most fun arcade

Growing up, some of my most cherished memories were formed around the warm glow of a television screen as my brother and I played video games together in our cozy suburban basement. These gaming sessions were less about the games themselves and more about the laughter, teamwork, and bonds we built during those shared experiences.

One of our greatest challenges was the original "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" game for NES, especially the notorious underwater level. We were shocked by its difficulty; it was a brutal introduction to the world of gaming that tested our resolve and forced us to question our fandom. Yet, it was in these moments of shared frustration and eventual triumph that some of our strongest memories were made.

On rainy days at the cottage, we were masters of another game: "Joust" on the Atari. The simplicity of the joystick control and the pure joy of knocking opponents off their mounts provided endless entertainment, warmed by the wood fire roaring behind us. We’d spend hours engrossed in these pixelated jousting tournaments, the outside world forgotten until the rain stopped.

Now, as a parent, I’m eager to share similar experiences with my children at Flying Squirrel’s arcade. This Hamilton gem blends carnival classics with the latest in arcade technology, offering a diverse range of games that cater to all ages and interests, creating a vibrant playground of both digital and physical challenges.

At the Arcade: A Day of New Adventures

• Hurricane Simulator: This was an instant hit with the kids. As soon as they saw the Hurricane Simulator, their curiosity couldn't be contained. Stepping inside, their faces lit up with excitement mixed with a hint of nervous anticipation. The simulator roared to life, and their screams and laughter echoed out as gusts of wind tousled hair and fluttered clothes. Once the wind died down, they emerged with wide grins, already asking if they could go again.

• Basketball Arcade Game: Fresh from basketball camp, my two boys approached the basketball arcade game with a confident swagger. Their recent training was evident as they sunk shots with ease, turning the game into a showcase of their improved skills. Watching them, I couldn't help but chuckle at my own attempts; it seems my high school basketball skills have certainly waned after 25 years of not hitting the courts. Don’t forget to practice, kids!

• Ski Ball: Moving on to a classic, Ski Ball brought out a bit of the competitive spirit in all of us. We rolled and tossed, each trying to outscore the other. The clinks and clatters of balls hitting the wooden targets were punctuated by cheers and groans, depending on how well we aimed. It was a simple game but one that reminded us how much fun these old arcade staples could be.

At the Flying Squirrel arcade in Hamilton, we’re not just passing time; we’re crafting memories that, like those difficult levels and joyful victories of the past, will last a lifetime.

Planning your next family outing in Hamilton? Make sure it includes trampolines, dodgeball, parkour and Hamilton’s most fun arcade.