Retro Arcade Gaming Enthusiasts Bid Farewell to 1UP Arcade

It’s a sad day for retro gaming aficionados: Brisbane’s beloved 1UP Arcade, the largest retro arcade in the southern hemisphere, is set to close its doors.

This news was shared earlier this year, when founder Stephen Holmes posted a touching message on Facebook on February 28th, reflecting on the arcade’s remarkable journey—from its modest beginnings to becoming a vibrant community hub, and the significant hurdles faced during the pandemic. If you haven’t read Stephen’s full message, it’s a must-see [here].

Since the announcement, the retro gaming community has been mourning—understandably so. Running a small business is challenging, but managing a venue filled with rare, delicate, and meticulously restored arcade machines is an extraordinary feat. It’s a true labor of love, one that Stephen and his team dedicated themselves to wholeheartedly.

The journey of 1UP Arcade gained recognition in the acclaimed documentary Still Standing, which highlighted the passion and resilience behind the scenes. (If you haven’t seen it yet, now’s the time.)

Mainstream media also took notice, with A Current Affair airing a segment on the arcade’s closure on April 23rd, emphasizing its significance in Brisbane’s cultural and entertainment scene.


source: A Current Affair on YouTube

Our thoughts are with Stephen and the entire team at 1UP Arcade. This closure is not just a significant loss for Brisbane, but for the global retro gaming community as well.

image source: 1UP Arcade (via Facebook)