Ottawa arcade: The ultimate battleground for friendly rivalries
by Daniel Reid
February 2025
Growing up, my friends and I didn’t just play video games—we lived them. My friends and I didn’t have our own fancy gaming setups, so we bounced from basement to basement, settling in on couches covered in chip crumbs, taking turns on controllers that were a little too well-worn, and always just as engaged while watching as we were while playing.
When it wasn’t our turn, we were coaching, reacting, living every moment like it was our own. We knew every sequence in Punch-Out!! and held our breath as someone tried to clear a tricky level in Super Mario Bros.
That’s the same energy you feel when you walk into the Flying Squirrel Ottawa arcade. Whether you’re battling for an air hockey win, bracing yourself in the Hurricane Simulator, draining shots in basketball, capturing memories at the photo station, or lining up the perfect pool shot, every visit is a perfect mix of nostalgia, competition, and nonstop action.
Arcade Games That Keep the Action Going
Air Hockey
There are few things more intensely satisfying than the clack of an air hockey puck as it rockets across the table. The game starts out friendly, but within minutes, it’s a battle of reflexes and pride. You’ll find yourself lunging, blocking, and unleashing power shots like your reputation depends on it—because, in an arcade with your friends and acquaintances, it kind of does.
The beauty of air hockey at Flying Squirrel Ottawa? It’s a game anyone can jump into and get competitive fast.
Hurricane Simulator
Ever wanted to experience hurricane-force winds without the danger? Step into the Hurricane Simulator and prepare to be blasted by winds up to 80 km/h. This is one of those arcade experiences that you feel. The moment you step inside and hit start, you’ll be bracing yourself as the winds ramp up, turning what seemed like a fun idea into a hilarious challenge of endurance.
The real fun? Watching your friends try to keep their cool while their hair flies in every direction. And of course, no hurricane simulator session is complete without capturing the moment—luckily, there’s a photo station nearby to immortalize your new windswept hairstyle.
Basketball
Arcade basketball is simple: make as many shots as you can before the buzzer sounds. But the pressure? That’s what separates the casual players from the legends.
At Flying Squirrel Ottawa, the basketball game is a crowd favourite—perfect for proving who has the best shot or just trying to beat your personal best. The rhythm of swishing shots, rapid-fire rebounds, and last-second buzzer-beaters makes every game an adrenaline rush. There’s nothing better than sinking a perfect three-pointer just as time runs out while your opponent watches in disbelief.
Photo Station
It’s not enough to just talk about your arcade victories—you need proof. Enter the photo station, where you and your friends can capture the pure joy, frustration, or hilarious exhaustion that comes with an intense arcade session.
Whether you’re fresh off an air hockey win, recovering from the Hurricane Simulator, or simply looking to document your group’s antics, the photo station at the Flying Squirrel Ottawa arcade makes sure you never forget the moment.
Pool
Arcade games are all about speed and reflexes, but pool is about patience, strategy, and a little bit of swagger. There’s something timeless about a game of 8-ball, whether you’re a seasoned pool hall veteran or someone just learning to hold the cue stick correctly.
At this Ottawa arcade, the pool tables offer a break from the high-energy action. Here, it’s about lining up the perfect shot or sinking a tricky bank shot.
From Arcade Battles to Trampoline Challenges
The best part of the Flying Squirrel Ottawa arcade? Once you’re done competing for high scores, you don’t have to go home. Instead, you can take all that arcade energy and launch yourself into the trampoline park.
- Show off your flipping skills on the trampolines.
- Dodgeball on trampolines is the ultimate stress reliever.
- The foam pit is waiting for you to land in style.
Why the Ottawa Arcade at Flying Squirrel is a Must-Visit
If you grew up loving the electric buzz of an arcade, this is the place to relive that excitement. And if you’re new to the arcade world? There’s no better place to start.
So, if you ever find yourself in Ottawa, Ontario, don’t just pass by. Step inside, grab a game card, and prepare for a night of competition, laughter, and arcade glory.