New Jersey is usually known for its beach-friendly activities like surfing, kite flying, and getting the perfect sun tan. It is a goldmine of fun for gamers. If you are looking to level up your gaming adventures, then you’re in for a treat.
From retro arcades, and esports tournaments to high-stakes casino action, the Garden State has something for everyone.
- Unleash your inner racer
If you love racing games, then Supercharged Entertainment in Edison will blow your mind. This is the real-life version of Mario Kart or Need for Speed. They have one of the world’s largest indoor multi-level karting experience and Bionic bionic bumper cars. The adrenaline rush is amazing and something every gamer should experience.
- The Legendary Atlantic City’s Casinos
For gamers who love the rush of a real casino, Atlantic City is the place to be. The iconic Boardwalk of New Jersey is lined with famous casinos like the Borgata, Hard Rock, and Ocean Resort, where you can play poker, roulette, slots, or any of the famous classics.
Known as the gambling capital of the East Coast, New Jersey is one of the few states where iGaming is completely legal. Gamers can enjoy a variety of digital casinos from the comfort of their personal spaces. Plus, most of the online casinos and offshore alternatives here let you gamble without kyc requirements for an even more flexible gaming experience. This is an added advantage for those who love anonymity.
- Get Lost in Arcades
This is a must-visit for retro gamers. Yestercades in Red Bank and The Silverball Museum in Asbury Park offer a nostalgic gaming experience. From pinball machines and vintage arcade cabinets to classic consoles, these lounge-meets-arcades have an authentic ambiance. And the good thing about this experience is you do not need quarters. Just pay an hourly rate and get lost in the game.
- Attend Fests and Conventions
There is an annual event in New Jersey called Garden State Comic Fest. Since gaming and geek comic culture go hand in hand, this event is in celebration of both. The convention features gaming tournaments, cosplay contests, and panels with industry legends. You could pick up a rare collectible, meet fellow fans, or trade card games.
As for those who are into cosplays, the Castle Point Anime Convention is the best place to be. It is a student-run anime convention in Secaucus, New Jersey. You can attend panel sessions or show off your favorite cosplays on the runway.
- Immerse in Virtual Reality
GamerNook offers a top-tier mindblowing VR experience. There’s also another VR center in American Dream Mall in East Rutherford and Sandbox VR in Paramus. For those seeking reality and immersing fully in virtual reality, these places are a dream come true. The high-tech motion tracking and multiplayer options make it feel like you’ve stepped straight into a video game.
- Compete in Esports at Local Gaming Tournaments
New Jersey has a thriving esports scene with numerous local tournaments and events. It is slowly becoming the national esports hub, currently ranking second in state esports earnings. Tournaments are organized regularly in gaming lounges, colleges, and convention centers. There are also hybrid gaming spaces like the Grid Esports Lounge in East Brunswick that offer high-speed internet, top-tier gaming rigs, and even private streaming rooms for gamers looking to go live in style. The Grid has it all.
Other popular venues, like Helix Esports in North Bergen, host professional-level competitions where you can test your skills against top players. Even if you’re not a competitive player, spectating these high-energy tournaments can be just as exciting.
- The Escape Room Experience
This is for the puzzle-solving lovers. Escape rooms are becoming widely popular in New Jersey. Most of them are inspired by video games to attract fans. Themes can range from Sci-fi adventures to prison breaks. If you want to put your brain to the test, then try out The Escape Game in East Rutherford. It is designed to give story-driven experiences where you and your team must find clues, crack codes, and escape before time runs out. “Level 99” at Amazing Escape Room in Cherry Hill is also another great spot to get the adrenaline high.
- Participate in Gaming Meetups and Communities
With a vibrant gaming community and cool gaming spots, there is something for everyone in the Garden State. You can find numerous local meetups and groups dedicated to various gaming interests.
Games aren’t all onscreen. There are board game cafes that offer good old-fashioned aesthetics and tabletop fun. There are social clubs that organize gaming tournaments and challenge members to strategy games. In 2024, the total gaming revenue from casinos and other betting sources in New Jersey hit $6.3 billion. This signifies the strong presence of gaming culture in the state. Joining gaming communities can lead to new friendships and epic gaming experiences.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.