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1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteGameWorks Seattle reopened on August 3, 2022, after closing in late 2021. The revival brought back the downtown arcade bar with a rearranged mix of classic arcade games, rhythm and pinball attractions, and an esports area. The venue is still listed at 1511 7th Avenue, but its current hours and visit policies should be checked on GameWorks’ official Seattle page before you go.
When did GameWorks Seattle reopen?
GameWorks’ 2022 relaunch opened at noon on August 3. GeekWire’s August 1 preview initially said the venue planned to reopen August 2, then updated the opening time on August 2 based on information from relaunch overseer Darren Des Roches. Seattle Met also covered the reopening on August 3.
The arcade had closed in late 2021. Former CEO Greg Stevens and partner Howard Brand funded its revival, and former chief operating officer Des Roches returned to oversee the relaunch. GeekWire’s Thomas Wilde toured the venue before it reopened and reported that the machines had not been sold or removed during the closure, and that no machines had been added in the intervening period.
What did the revived arcade look like?
The 2022 tour described a familiar collection of games in a reorganized space. The details below are a snapshot from the reopening, not a verified inventory of what is available today.
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- Small Form Factor Fight Stick featuring an 8-button layout and 8ft. cable
- Great for both Arcade and Fighting Games
- Compact, lightweight and portable design
- Features Classic 8-Button Layout and HORI’s Original Joystick with V-cut Housing
- Officially Licensed by Sony
Retro games and classic cabinets
Fighting games were grouped near the entrance. Upstairs, a retro lounge featured Frogger, Galaxian and four-player Pac-Man cocktail cabinets.
Rhythm, pinball and casual play
The first-floor seating area included Dance Dance Revolution, pinball and skee-ball, mixing active and casual play with the arcade floor.
Rank #2
- Compatible with Switch and Windows.
- Supports ultimate software - customize button mapping and create macros
- Dynamic button layout - button mapping changes with mode functionally and visually
- Ultra-moddable arcade stick - Universal mounting plate supports Sanwa arcade sticks
- Three ways to connect: Bluetooth, 2.4g and wired USB-C. The included 2.4g receiver has a special hidden compartment to store it safely.
Esports and community space
The esports area had moved to a balcony above the entrance. GeekWire described security-locked PlayStation 4 and Xbox One stations alongside Alienware PCs. An open second-floor area could be used for bring-your-own-controller events.
What community events were planned for the relaunch?
Reconnecting with Seattle’s gaming community and bringing back events were stated priorities. Des Roches told GeekWire the venue expected to host esports games and community nights, including Super Smash Bros., League of Legends and Street Fighter events. The report also noted that the Seattle Online Broadcasters’ Association had booked a meetup for August 13, 2022. Those were reopening-era plans and bookings; they do not establish a current event schedule.
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- Excellent function and high quality control.
- Used for any wooden or metal controller. Plastic base holder.
- Available round or square connect face.
- Easy to operate, Switch can be replaced easily.
In the August 1, 2022 GeekWire report, Des Roches described the reopening as a chance to resume operations and refine them: “We’re going to open up, welcome the community back, and work out the systems.”
Where is GameWorks Seattle, and when is it open?
GameWorks’ official site currently lists the Seattle Downtown location at 1511 7th Avenue, Seattle, WA 98101. Its published hours are:
Rank #4
- Compatible with Switch/Switch 2, PS4, PS3, Xbox Series S/X, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PC Windows, macOS, Steam Deck, Android.
- Compatible with Sanwa Denshi buttons and joystick that is perfect for customization
- Supports the XINPUT and DINPUT when being used on PC
- Supports the Turbo functions with different speed settings.
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| Day | Published hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | Closed except for private events |
| Tuesday | Closed except for private events |
| Wednesday | Noon–9 p.m. |
| Thursday | Noon–9 p.m. |
| Friday | Noon–11 p.m. |
| Saturday | 11 a.m.–11 p.m. |
| Sunday | 11 a.m.–9 p.m. |
Hours can change. Check GameWorks’ live Seattle listing before travelling. Visit Seattle also lists GameWorks as a downtown attraction at the same address: Visit Seattle’s GameWorks listing.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How much does admission cost, and what should visitors know?
According to the current GameWorks FAQ, admission is typically free, though special events can charge an admission fee. Dining is first come, first served. A paid public parking garage is immediately adjacent to the venue.
- Entry is restricted to guests 21 and over after 9 p.m.
- The FAQ says young children are preferably accompanied by adults.
- There are no storage lockers.
- Groups of 10 or more can inquire about dining coordination; the venue also offers event bookings.
Check the official Seattle page and FAQ for current policies and event details, since these can change.
What games and attractions does GameWorks offer now?
GameWorks currently describes the Seattle venue as an entertainment destination with arcade games, prizes, more than 100 esports titles and The Works Kitchen. Its FAQ says it has over 150 arcade games. These are the operator’s own promotional descriptions, not independently audited counts; the specific machines listed in the 2022 reopening tour should not be taken as a current equipment list.
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