Latest news with #arcade
Yahoo
15 hours ago
- General
- Yahoo
Tourists visit downtown Myrtle Beach despite recent violence. What they said
Three-year-old Kashtyn Grogan hoists up a new set of toy tools he won for 2,500 tickets at the Fun Plaza on Ocean Boulevard. His mom Kaitlyn Grogan browses the prizes to budget the 1,600 extra tickets her son won at the Willy Wonka game. He and his two younger brothers are on vacation at Myrtle Beach for the start of the summer. Friday evening kicked off with a stormy start, with winds powerful enough to tear down fences surrounding the Pavilion Park and knock over trash cans. Many visitors sought refuge in local restaurants or their hotel rooms before the night got started after the sun set, when dozens of young people walked up and down the boulevard to play arcade games, eat funnel cake, and gawk at the modified trucks cruising down the traffic funnel. 'You don't even remember me,' Kaitlyn Speaks shouted at an employee at an airbrush T-shirt vendor. Speaks goes to Myrtle Beach every year, she said. She's downtown for a girls' trip and a wedding with her friend Emma Mullins as she brushes off another sales pitch from the persistent employee. 'We're beefing with him right now,' Mullins said as she scoops up a bite of funnel cake. The employee threw up his hands and turned to coax more passers-by for a sale. They all walk on and wish him a nice night. 'Y'all want a T-shirt?' he said. 'I'm just bored as hell.' Soon after, Issac Shinault from Greensboro, NC, cruises by on a Onewheel electric skateboard and a bucket of roses. He rolls up and down the boulevard handing them out to children, and even one of the shopkeepers waves him down with a dollar in hand. 'I'm just here to spread positivity,' he said. 'There's never a bad reason for flowers.' Henry and Cheryl Seaborn from St. Louis, MO, joke with each other as they meander down the boardwalk. They said they feel safe while walking downtown. 'It can't be worse than Washington, D.C.,' Henry Seaborn said. 'I ain't seen too many criminal-looking people around here.' 'Speak for yourself,' Cheryl Seaborn said. Grogan said her family has paid attention to when the bike week comes to town. 'If we were here last week with what happened in Little River, I would not feel safe,' she said and pointed to her two sons in a beach cart. Myrtle Beach Police officers patrolled the streets after dark. They're keeping a watchful eye out for any commotion and offering directions to families and summer party-goers. There was a tragedy not too long ago on the strip where these families visit. Business has been much slower since April, one shop employee lamented. This time last year, many more people were coming into his shop, he said. On April 26 at 11:50 p.m., 18-year-old Jerrius Davis fired his gun on North Ocean Boulevard near 9th Avenue North. A Myrtle Beach Police officer returned fire, hitting and killing the Bennettsville teenager. The Myrtle Beach Police Department released dash cam footage of the incident on May 29. The footage showed Davis bending over to reach for a gun and firing it into a crowd. He was then pursued within seconds by Officer Brandon O'Rourke, who is shown firing his gun five times and killing Davis while running down Ocean Boulevard as Davis fled into a crowd. The incident injured 11 people. It is unclear what victims were injured by Davis' gunfire or O'Rourke's. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division is still investigating the incident. O'Rourke and two other officers who responded to the incident, Mohamad El-Kelwi and Jeramiah Johnson were put on paid leave during the investigation and have since been put back on the job, according to a video released by Myrtle Beach police. Two of the people injured in the incident include 13-year-old Zavian Hairston of Virginia and 15-year-old Serenity Chavis of North Carolina. Chavis has claimed Myrtle Beach police shot her that night.
Digital Trends
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Digital Trends
This X-Arcade controller brings the smoky magic of arcades to virtual reality
I'll never forget my first experience with an arcade machine. I was at a small regional airport. I can't remember who we were picking up, but I do remember the Galaga machine. The beeping sound effects and the flashing lights called to me like a siren, even though I was barely tall enough to see the screen and grasp the joystick. Recommended Videos I don't know how much time I spent playing. It felt like hours, but was probably closer to 20 minutes. For a kid whose only experience with gaming was an NES, the whole experience felt transformative. Ever since then, I've wanted an arcade machine of my own. As I grew older, I came to understand that owning an arcade machine meant spending a not-insignificant amount of money — and spending a not-insignificant amount of time on maintenance. Those considerations (plus living in small apartments for a large part of my adult life) meant that obtaining one was more of a pipe dream than anything else. Enter the X-Arcade Arcade2TV-XR. This (relatively) affordable unit promised to bring the arcade experience into the home, and it definitely delivered on that promise. It also brought the maintenance aspect, too, in the form of tedious setup and configuration. Spoiler alert: I still think it's worth it, especially if you're an arcade buff, but be prepared to pull out what hair you have left trying to set up MAME to work with this controller (because let's face it: if you remember arcades, you're probably thinning a little). The arcade dream X-Arcade isn't new to the industry. The company has produced arcade controllers for over two decades, bringing the feel of playing old-school games right into the living room. As much fun as it is to play Street Fighter on a console, playing with a physical joystick and an arcade layout feels so much better. The Arcade2TV-XR model is a bit different. It works with Meta Quest 2 and Quest 3 headsets to immerse the player into a virtual arcade, and it's a pretty great experience. You can even customize the interior of the arcade to a certain extent, adding your own ROMs and playing your favorite games in an environment that feels familiar, if a bit better lit than the arcades I remember. If you really want to seal the deal, pump in a bit of stale cigarette smoke (but don't really. That's awful for you.) The unit includes a code for Arcade Ranger, the virtual arcade area. It also has a multiplayer game built-in that lets you build and customize an arcade while serving customers, but it isn't something I spent much time with. My interest lay in trying to recreate the arcade experience: a cacophony of background music, sound effects, and flashing lights all vying for attention while I struggle to make the most of a limited number of quarters. I was successful to a degree. I wasn't quite able to capture the atmosphere, but at least I nailed the feel. Playing older arcade games with the Arcade2TV-XR feels great. The buttons are responsive, the joystick is snappy, and it even has a trackball in the center if I ever get the urge to play Golden Tee. The inclusion of a second joystick and set of buttons is great for playing multiplayer arcade games with another person, although you will need to connect the controller to a PC or console for that. Thankfully, connecting to another system is easy enough to do. It's the configuration that had me groaning in frustration. Part of the problem is dated documentation; I found conflicting information in the included user manual and on the website. I ended up opting for the information on the company website, trusting it to be more accurate. The VR setup was simple. Linking the Arcade2TV-XR to RetroArch, on the other hand, felt like trying to beat level three of Battletoads. You know the one. Between firmware updates, USB issues, and trying to get the arcade controller to register in the device panel and then in RetroArch, I spent hours changing various settings until it worked just the way I wanted. Of course, the controller isn't to blame for all of that. RetroArch can be a bit of a nightmare at times, and it just had no idea what to make of the X-Arcade stick. In the end, everything worked as intended, and I spent a lot of time playing 1942, Gauntlet, and several other favorites. Playing fighters is particularly rewarding, and the Arcade2TV-XR comes with swappable restrictor gates to fine-tune the experience. Also: Pac-Man. So much Pac-Man. It's not exactly the same as playing an arcade machine, and I have to sideload ROMs onto the Quest 2 headset before they will appear in the virtual arcade environment. It's not plug-and-play, but I never expected it to be. Emulation has always required effort from the user, but this endeavor took more than expected and isn't something I'd wish upon a complete beginner. I'm not sure anything can ever fully capture the same sensation as when I first played Galaga at that airport, but when I pull on a VR headset and watch the cabinet appear in front of me, it's a step closer. And when I'm fully locked into a game, trying to beat a previous high score, something is there: the unadulterated joy that comes from playing games that live on mostly in memory.
Geek Girl Authority
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Geek Girl Authority
Crazy Pachinko Brings Arcade Vibes to Online Gaming
The online gaming landscape has continuously evolved, driven by advances in technology and increasing player expectations. In an industry where innovation is key, the emergence of games that fuse classic concepts with modern delivery has captured widespread attention. One game leading this trend is Crazy Pachinko , a digital reimagining of the iconic Japanese arcade game, designed to bring the nostalgic, high-energy excitement of physical pachinko parlors into the virtual space. This game doesn't just imitate the original — it elevates it. With immersive graphics, real-time interaction, and a structure that mirrors live game shows, Crazy Pachinko offers players a one-of-a-kind experience that feels more like participating in a live arcade event than playing a typical online casino game. A Brief Look at Pachinko's Origins To appreciate how far Crazy Pachinko has come, it's worth understanding where it started. Pachinko is a mechanical game that originated in Japan during the early 20th century. Played similarly to pinball, the objective is to shoot small steel balls into a vertical playing field filled with pins, hoping they land in high-reward pockets. Traditionally found in noisy, brightly lit Japanese arcades, pachinko machines were not just games but social events — buzzing with lights, sounds, and the tension of falling balls. Over time, the game became a cultural phenomenon and an integral part of Japan's entertainment industry. The Digital Transition As the global demand for online entertainment increased, especially during and after the pandemic, game developers sought to recreate the magic of arcade games in digital form. However, most digital adaptations of pachinko lacked the soul of the original — until now. Crazy Pachinko manages to bridge that gap by embracing the game's physical charm and enhancing it with modern online gaming features. The result is a compelling, interactive experience that stands out in an otherwise crowded casino game market. What Sets Crazy Pachinko Apart? 1. Live Game Show Format Crazy Pachinko is not just a game; it's a live event. Hosted by real-time presenters, it feels more like participating in a televised game show than playing a static slot. Players can watch the action unfold in real time, interact with the host, and see other players win, creating a communal atmosphere often missing from online platforms. 2. Realistic Visual and Audio Effects High-definition graphics and meticulously designed sound effects transport players into a virtual pachinko parlor. The bouncing steel balls, flashing lights, and arcade-style soundtrack all contribute to a deeply immersive experience that echoes the real-world excitement of traditional pachinko machines. 3. Skill Meets Luck Unlike pure chance-based slot games, Crazy Pachinko offers a mix of luck and strategy. Players choose when and how to enter bonus rounds, adding a layer of decision-making that appeals to gamers who enjoy tactical gameplay. This balance enhances engagement and encourages repeated play. 4. Bonus Features and Payouts Bonus games in Crazy Pachinko elevate the potential for big wins. These rounds often feature multipliers, special animations, and higher-stakes gameplay that keeps adrenaline levels high. The game also offers competitive Return to Player (RTP) rates, making it an attractive choice for both casual players and serious gamers. 5. Mobile Optimization In 2025, mobile-first design isn't optional — it's essential. Crazy Pachinko is fully optimized for smartphones and tablets, ensuring seamless performance across devices. Whether you're commuting, relaxing at home, or killing time during a break, the game delivers consistent quality on any screen. The Appeal to a Global Audience While pachinko is deeply rooted in Japanese culture, Crazy Pachinko has been tailored for a global audience. Its universal design, simple mechanics, and engaging format mean that players from around the world can enjoy the game, even if they've never seen a pachinko machine before. The localization of the game, including multiple language options and currency compatibility, reflects a broader trend in online gaming, making culturally specific games accessible to international players without losing their original essence. Why It Matters in Today's Gaming Environment The rise of Crazy Pachinko highlights a major shift in online gaming trends. Players no longer want repetitive slots or overly complex table games. Instead, they're looking for experiential entertainment — games that make them feel something, whether it's excitement, tension, or satisfaction. By bringing the arcade vibes of yesteryear into the online space, Crazy Pachinko taps into a powerful sense of nostalgia while staying ahead of the curve with cutting-edge features. It shows that even traditional game concepts can thrive in the digital age when executed thoughtfully. Final Thoughts Crazy Pachinko isn't just another addition to the online casino catalog — it's a testament to how creative design and cultural homage can redefine what online gaming means. For players seeking a more engaging, dynamic alternative to standard casino games, this title offers an unmatched blend of excitement, innovation, and global appeal. Cozy Game Alert: LITTLE FRIENDS: PUPPY ISLAND RELATED: Dead Island 2 and Happy Game Are Free in the Epic Games Store
Associated Press
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
The Pinball Palace Announces National Recognition as One of the Largest Family-Friendly Pinball Arcades in the U.S.
The Pinball Palace evolves from personal passion project to a nationally recognized pinball destination, offering vintage and modern machines with family-focused access. United States, May 27, 2025 -- From Garage Hobby to National Spotlight The Pinball Palace, founded by Kelley Daniel, has officially announced its emergence as one of the largest and most respected pinball arcades in the United States. What began over eight years ago in Daniel's personal garage has since evolved into a public entertainment venue that celebrates pinball's legacy while modernizing the arcade experience for contemporary audiences. Initially created to house a growing personal collection of restored pinball machines, The Pinball Palace opened its doors to the public in 2017 after Daniel acquired a commercial space. The venue now houses one of the most extensive and diverse pinball machine collections in the country, attracting both families and competitive players. The business is family-operated by Daniel, his wife Karen, and their son Nick, who currently holds the 13th ranked position among competitive pinball players in Georgia. A Living Museum of Pinball and Arcade Culture The Pinball Palace has become a living archive of pinball history. With working machines dating back to 1955 and including new releases still being manufactured today, the venue represents decades of mechanical and digital gaming evolution. Unlike many arcades that have phased out pinball machines due to their high maintenance requirements, The Pinball Palace embraces the technical complexity. 'Our guests are drawn to the authenticity of the machines and the way we maintain them,' said Kelley Daniel, Owner of The Pinball Palace. 'Most arcades avoid pinball because of the upkeep, but we thrive on it. That dedication makes all the difference.' The venue also includes vintage arcade games and bounce houses, creating a complete family recreation space that appeals across generations. IFPA Tournaments Strengthen Competitive Profile The Pinball Palace holds monthly tournaments sanctioned by the International Flipper Pinball Association (IFPA), further establishing its role within the competitive pinball circuit. These events attract seasoned players and newcomers alike, contributing to the growing popularity of organized pinball competitions in the Southeast region of the U.S. Daniel's son Nick plays an active role not only in the family business but also in the tournament scene, representing the venue on the competitive circuit. Reimagining Arcade Access With an Inclusive Model In a notable departure from traditional coin-operated arcades, The Pinball Palace operates on a flat-rate model. Guests pay by the hour or for the entire day, allowing unrestricted access to the machines during their visit. This model has received positive feedback from visitors and reviewers alike, many of whom cite it as a key factor in the venue's growing popularity. Reviews across digital platforms emphasize the accessibility, cleanliness, and machine quality—establishing The Pinball Palace as a top-tier venue for both locals and traveling enthusiasts. Honoring Nostalgia, Supporting the Future The announcement also highlights The Pinball Palace's core mission: preserving the cultural value of pinball while introducing the experience to new generations. As digital entertainment dominates home environments, venues like The Pinball Palace provide an interactive, communal experience that continues to resonate. 'What started as a love for arcades became a business driven by purpose,' said Daniel. 'We wanted to keep this tradition alive for future generations, and the community's response has been incredible.' The venue's continued expansion and national recognition reflect broader trends of nostalgia-driven recreation and renewed interest in tactile, shared entertainment formats. About The Pinball Palace Founded by Kelley Daniel and opened to the public in 2017, The Pinball Palace is a family-owned arcade based in Georgia. It features one of the nation's largest public pinball collections, with machines spanning seven decades, along with vintage arcade games and family-friendly attractions. The venue hosts monthly IFPA-sanctioned tournaments and is known for its dedication to machine quality and customer experience. Media Contact Kelley Daniel Owner, The Pinball Palace Phone: 912-265-9275 Email: [email protected] Contact Info: Name: Kelley Daniel Email: Send Email Organization: The Pinball Palace Website: Release ID: 89160996 In case of identifying any errors, concerns, or inconsistencies within the content shared in this press release that necessitate action or if you require assistance with a press release takedown, we strongly urge you to notify us promptly by contacting [email protected] (it is important to note that this email is the authorized channel for such matters, sending multiple emails to multiple addresses does not necessarily help expedite your request). Our expert team is committed to addressing your concerns within 8 hours by taking necessary actions diligently to rectify any identified issues or supporting you with the removal process. Delivering accurate and reliable information remains our top priority.
Top Gear
23-05-2025
- Automotive
- Top Gear
Remembering classic games: RoadBlasters (1987)
Remembering classic games: RoadBlasters (1987) Inaccurate title aside, there was very little wrong with this Eighties classic Skip 1 photos in the image carousel and continue reading Turn on Javascript to see all the available pictures. Released by Atari in 1987, RoadBlasters was a sci-fi racer that recognised the arcade video game staple of shooting absolutely everything in sight could be handily applied to driving games as well. In addition to the traditional driving controls, you had a pair of triggers to fire lasers and thumb buttons to launch your special weapons. Rather than a steering wheel, the arcade cabinet, both in its upright and sleek sit-down incarnations, featured a yoke that was instantly evocative of Knight Rider's KITT. And if you played it at the time it was released you probably had the bouffant 1980s Hasselhoff haircut to match. Advertisement - Page continues below The most immediately striking thing about RoadBlasters was the impressive animation of the cherry red player car that sat front and centre in the screen. The sprite had a slightly exaggerated perspective, but the rotation as you turned the vehicle was buttery smooth and totally convincing. You needed that responsiveness as well, because you had to accurately point the nose of the vehicle directly at the tangerine coloured enemy cars and roadside turrets in order to score a successful hit. Miscalculate even slightly and the car would detonate in a lavish explosion. The sci-fi theming lent the game a unique atmosphere, with futuristic bubble cities visible on the horizon and a dropship that swooped down to deposit special weapons onto the roof of your car, even at speeds in excess of 200mph. If that sort of delivery is the next evolution of the fast food drive through, we're here for it. There's little to criticise about RoadBlasters, but we do feel duty bound to point out the fundamental inaccuracy of the title: you're not blasting the road itself, you're blasting things on the road. Still, we'll forgive it, you didn't fight any streets in Street Fighter 2 either. Advertisement - Page continues below Top Gear Newsletter Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. Look out for your regular round-up of news, reviews and offers in your inbox. Get all the latest news, reviews and exclusives, direct to your inbox. Success Your Email*
