Winnipeg’s best arcade is a gamer's paradise

Growing up, some of my most cherished family memories were formed around the warm glow of a television screen as we 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.

I remember playing "Ecco the Dolphin" on the Sega Genesis with my brother, a game that had us both on edge (and may still haunt our nightmares to this day). After a serene journey through the game's initial underwater realm, Ecco suddenly leaps into the air, the screen exploding into a vibrant kaleidoscope of colours accompanied by a sound that can only be described as a thousand screaming crickets. My brother and I spent weeks engrossed in this eerie, captivating quest through unknown oceanic expanses, bonding over our shared trepidation of the vast, open waters. Equally memorable was watching my parents struggle hilariously to clear the first obstacle in the original "Super Mario Bros." Their repeated failures against such a seemingly simple task—jumping over a single Goomba—became a family joke and those sessions, filled with laughter, still bring a smile to my face.

Now, as a parent, I'm eager to introduce my own children to the joy of family gaming at Flying Squirrel's arcade. This Winnipeg arcade blends nostalgia with new experiences in a vibrant setting that offers a diverse selection of games, catering to various interests and ages, and creating a playground of both digital and physical challenges.

 

At the Arcade: A Day of New Adventures

• First Person Shooter: The adventure starts with a first-person shooter where my kids aim at virtual targets. We laughed hysterically as my youngest, usually not much of a gamer, surprised us all by outscoring everyone.

 

• Air Hockey: The air hockey table always sparks fierce competition. In a thrilling back-and-forth match between my two older kids, my middle child scores the decisive goal against his older brother. His victory was met with a gleeful leap and a series of high-fives, perfectly capturing the excitement of our family rivalry.

 

• Donkey Kong: Donkey Kong is my chance to shine—a favourite from my childhood, and I've still got the moves (well, at least when playing against the under-10 crowd). As I expertly dodge barrels and rescue Pauline, I add to my kids’ amusement/embarrassment by sharing trivia, like how this was the epic first showdown between Mario and DK.

 

• King of the Big Wheel: The classic appeal of spinning the big wheel always gathers a crowd. When my oldest son gave the wheel a hefty pull and won the jackpot, his triumphant grin was unforgettable, and we all shared in the thrill of his win.

 

Each game at Flying Squirrel's arcade offers a unique blend of challenge and fun, ensuring that every visit is filled with memorable moments.

As we move from game to game, the joy and wonder in my children's eyes remind me of my own childhood. It reinforces that while the settings might have changed, the essence of these experiences—the laughter, the challenges overcome together, the shared triumphs—remains timeless.

At Flying Squirrel, it’s less about the games themselves and more about the invaluable together time, continuing a family tradition of fun and unity.

Want to plan your next visit to Flying Squirrel in Winnipeg? Get your tickets today.