(Photo by Jeff Spry)
If you grew up feeding quarters into arcade games in the ‘80s or are feverishly addicted to video amusements and pinball machines, the nostalgic Vector Volcano Arcade in downtown Bend will lure you into its flashing neon lair.
Packed with classic video games from the glory days of Bally and Atari, this digital den is a rotating gold mine of games like Defender, Centipede, Pacman, Space Invaders, Asteroids, Tempest, and Galaga. For a flat fee of $5 for one hour or $10 for all-day, gamers can indulge themselves in a free-play of unlimited bliss using joysticks, buttons and flippers to their heart’s content.
The idea is the brainchild of owners Brett and Danielle Pulliam, who have a genuine fondness for these revolutionary games of the past. Brett spent time as a Pixar animator where his work contributed to animated films like Incredibles, Cars, Monsters Inc. and A Bugs Life, all while collecting vintage video arcade games and pinball machines. While attempting to turn his hobby into a full-time business, Brett turned his gaze to Bend where the absence of an extensive classic arcade made for an intriguing opportunity resulting in their grand opening in May.
“I love these games and we’re seeing a big revival of them as people rediscover this style of easy-to-learn games,” said Brett. “There’s a nostalgia to them, but they’re really well-designed games and fun to play. The gameplay is pretty amazing. That social aspect of retro gaming is bringing people together for a whole new generation. And movies like Wreck-It Ralph and Pixels are teaching kids about this old-school wave of games.”
Amid the constant music of bell, beeps and laser blasts, gamers of all ages have been lining up to try their skill at the kaleidoscopic lineup of Volcano Vector’s electronic novelties. The revolving array of games is over forty at last count and the Pulliams are always hunting down new attractions.
“Many of these vintage games are true collector’s items,” he added. “Some of the hardest to find are games like Disc of Tron, Cosmic Chasm or an original Dragon’s Lair. I have a Dragon’s Lair and am eventually going to bring into the store.”
Vector Volcano has just secured their beer and cider license so adults can now enjoy alcoholic beverages while game playing.
“I want us to be known as an arcade first, not a bar with games, but I believe with Bend being such a craft-beer Mecca, it’s a perfect pairing. People are loving it and think it’s so cool having a classic arcade here. They’re popping up all over the country. I’ve heard so many great comments from adults who grew up with these arcades and younger computer gamers who’ve discovered them. The response has been enthusiastic.”
Vector Volcano Arcade
111 NW Oregon Ave., Bend
vectorvolcanoarcade@gmail.com
www.vectorvolcanoarcade.com
