The Village of Newark is celebrating a local business called Arcade Project, located at 235 Murray Street. Residents say it has become a game-changer for entertainment in Newark since its official fall 2023 opening. After more than three years of renovation, this 8,700-square-foot space now ranks among New York’s largest free-play arcades.
Guests can experience over 100 arcade games and pinball machines for a flat $15 entry fee. Once inside, all games are set for unlimited free play, allowing visitors to enjoy the collection for as long as they like, with no time limits—provided they keep their wristbands on. The facility also boasts a full kitchen featuring hand-crafted menu items such as personal pizzas, as well as an impressive drink menu that includes over 80 varieties of sodas, juices, and locally crafted adult beverages.
For those eager to win prizes, the arcade offers 35 ticket and prize games. While these games require tokens—priced at 25 cents each—they are designed to be affordable and engaging. The Arcade Project also caters to birthday parties, corporate functions, and private events, making it a versatile addition to the local entertainment scene.
The project is the brainchild of arcade and pinball enthusiasts Derek and Elena. Their passion for retro gaming led to this venture after their growing collection of machines outgrew their apartment. In 2019, the couple began their search for a suitable space, eventually settling on the Murray Street location in early 2020.
Initially, they worked with a smaller area, gradually renovating and expanding until moving into a larger unit in 2021. Their efforts culminated in a preview opening during spring 2023, which featured around 50 games. Community support during this trial run prompted further renovations and expansions over the summer, with the first full season launching later that year. By summer 2024, the arcade doubled its floor space and added over 50 more machines to its roster.
Derek and Elena continue to work full-time as an engineer and engineering technician, respectively, while running the arcade themselves. The family-run nature of the business is evident, with Elena’s mother managing the entry and prize redemption. Together, they also maintain the machines and prepare their homemade pizza dough, ensuring a hands-on approach to their business.
The Arcade Project has already become a major draw for Newark and beyond, offering nostalgia and excitement for gamers of all ages.
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