Chuck E. Cheese Launches Adult-Focused Arcade Concept, Opens First Location in New York

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Chuck E. Cheese Launches Adult-Focused Arcade Concept, Opens First Location in New York

Victor, New York — Chuck E. Cheese is growing up — literally. In a nostalgic nod to its first-generation fans, the beloved children’s arcade chain is launching an adult-focused spin-off called “Chuck’s Arcade”, and one of its first 10 locations has opened in Victor, New York, just 22 miles southeast of Rochester.

Retro Games, Booze & Big-Kid Prizes

Designed as a “modern-day love letter” to its millennial and Gen X fans, Chuck’s Arcade brings back retro hits like Galaga alongside grown-up favorites like Mortal Kombat and Halo — titles once too edgy for the kids’ arcade floors.

To complete the experience, the new arcade spots come with food, alcohol, and a prize counter featuring “old-school merch” for high-scoring guests — plus, of course, candy mountains for nostalgia’s sake.

Old Mascots Return, Animatronics Revived

Each Chuck’s Arcade is “overseen” by a vintage animatronic character from the franchise’s archives — including figures from Munch’s Make Believe Band, which were phased out in 2023 from nearly all Chuck E. Cheese locations except one in California.

Now, they’re getting a new life — and a more grown-up audience.

Chuck E. Cheese Launches Adult-Focused Arcade Concept, Opens First Location in New York

Nationwide Rollout Across 8 States

In addition to New York, Chuck’s Arcades have popped up in Connecticut, Florida, Oklahoma, Georgia, Texas, New Hampshire, and Missouri, mostly inside malls.

The move follows the chain’s $350 million renovation initiative and comes just five years after the brand filed for bankruptcy during the COVID-19 pandemic.

David McKillips, CEO of Chuck E. Cheese, called the spin-off “a natural evolution.”

“Chuck E. Cheese has spent decades mastering the arcade experience — it’s in our DNA,” McKillips said in a press release.

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A Comeback in the Making?

The company, now bouncing back financially, even explored a potential $1 billion auction last year with Goldman Sachs as part of a broader strategic reinvention.

Chuck’s Arcade is clearly a bet that grown-ups — especially those craving an ‘80s or ‘90s throwback — are ready to hit the game floor again.

Have you visited Chuck’s Arcade yet?

What’s your favorite throwback game? Would you trade your Friday night bar plans for Pac-Man and prizes Share your take and discover more local stories at ridgecrestpact.org.

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Doris Oliver

Doris Oliver is a proud Ridgecrest native with a deep passion for bringing local stories to light. With over 2 years of experience in community reporting, Doris has built a trusted voice in the Community. Her work focuses on covering the issues that matter most to Ridgecrest residents — from public safety and education to local government and community events. Driven by a belief that informed citizens make stronger communities, Doris is committed to delivering accurate, timely, and impactful news. Through ridgecrestpact.org, she aims to bridge the gap between people and the stories shaping their everyday lives — making local news accessible, engaging, and meaningful.

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