The best gaming nights out in Manchester

Manchester has a huge range of bars and restaurants, from edgy independents to up and coming greats. But what happens when you’re feeling a different kind of night out?

‘Gaming’ is a broad term and it certainly doesn’t just mean staying in to play video games. Manchester is home to a variety of cool gaming venues, some of which you may not yet know about. If you’re looking to get competitive, Manchester is the place to do it.

Arcade Club

If you feel full of 80s nostalgia, want to feel like you’re in the real life ‘San Junipero’ Black Mirror episode, (reviewed at here  as a great representation of the 80s) , you’ll be pleased to know Manchester is home to loads of retro arcade games at Arcade club in Bury. They also have many new generation consoles so there is plenty for everyone to explore and have a go at.

Hold Fast bar at Hatters Hostel

There are plenty of bars with a selection of board games in Manchester but one particular bar combines craft beer and cocktails with old school Mario Kart on their Nintendo 64. It’s cool, it’s cheap at happy hour and they host regular Mario Kart tournaments where you can win a bar tab. When you’re throwing it back to a classic Mario vs Bowser throw down against your best friends, what’s not to like?

Manchester235 Casino

Those who like their gaming with a side of high stakes should head to Manchester235, a 24-hour casino. Of course, casino games require some skill and you don’t want to sit down at the Blackjack or Roulette tables unless you’re ready. It’s good to hone your tactics online in advance, testing out live casino games at https://www.mrgreen.com/en/live-casino, for example. When you feel prepared, take up your place at this Manchester casino, have some fun and (hopefully) bring home some winnings to show your pals and yourself that you know how to play the tables.

Escape rooms

For a more physical and mentally challenging gaming experience, Escape rooms involve solving puzzles to get out of the room before the time is up, centred around a theme. It’s hard to narrow it down, there are so many options of escape games in Manchester now, as listed on Trip Advisor. Indeed, many companies offering escape rooms are reviewed very highly. VR is offered at Virtual Hideout, Lucardo has a magic-themed room and Escape Hunt Manchester boasts rooms with pirate, viking and samurai plots. Some can be scary and make you jump and each has its own unique features. If you’ve never tried one, Manchester is certainly the place.

Gaming is a great way to get competitive with your friends, yourself or the casino table. With Manchester’s booming bar scene has seen gaming in bars soar. But for the teetotal among us, there is plenty of fun going on outside these licensed venues. So grab your mates, book an escape room or head down to the casino… or, if all else fails, at least you can always play Mario Kart on a Nintendo 64.