When asking yourself about something to do near me in Phoenix with a group of friends or family, consider
Hi-score club
Why Hi-score club is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Hi-Score Club is a distinctive anime-themed lounge located in downtown Phoenix, offering a unique and immersive atmosphere that’s perfect for meeting up with friends. Its design sets it apart, featuring three intimate seating pods separated by plexiglass barriers, each accommodating 8 to 10 people to provide a comfortable space for groups to gather while maintaining privacy and safety. The club's interior is vibrantly decorated by local artists who specialize in anime art, literally plastering the walls with colorful and engaging visuals inspired by Japanese pop culture, making it an appealing destination for anime fans and social groups alike. One of the highlights of Hi-Score Club is its exclusive collection of import arcade games curated by the owner Bracamonte from his personal collection of over 350 joystick classics. Visitors can enjoy rare and multiplayer titles such as "Bishi Bashi Channel" by Konami and Sega "candy cab" arcade machines loaded with hundreds of retro games that are not commonly found in the U.S. This rotating assortment includes fan favorites like the light gun shooter "Point Blank" and the boxing game inspired by "Fist of the North Star," "Punch Mania," continually refreshed to keep the gaming experience fresh and exciting. Together, the curated games, themed ambiance, and thoughtfully spaced seating create an inviting venue for friends to relax, play, and enjoy a vibrant nightlife experience that differs from typical crowded bars, making Hi-Score Club a great place to unwind and share fun memories.
Here's what people think of Hi-score club
As of recent, Hi-score club holds a 3.5-star rating based on 55 reviews.
User reviews of Hi-Score Club reflect a mixed but intriguing experience overall, which is typical for new and niche establishments. Many patrons praise the venue's unique anime theme and the carefully curated import arcade game selection, which distinguishes it from other nightlife spots in Phoenix. Positive feedback often highlights the comfortable seating pods separated by plexiglass, which offer a change-of-pace vibe and a degree of privacy that patrons appreciate, especially compared to more crowded or noisy bars. The colorful décor and the incorporation of beloved games from Japanese arcade culture attract both gaming enthusiasts and anime fans, adding to the club’s appeal. However, some negative reviews point out challenges such as the somewhat limited operational hours, which may restrict patron visits, and the relatively modest overall rating of 3.5 stars from 55 reviews suggests there are areas where the club could improve. Certain visitors note that the concept might not fully satisfy those expecting a more traditional bar or club atmosphere, and some suggest growing pains related to management or service. In conclusion, Hi-Score Club appears to carve out a unique niche by blending arcade culture and anime visuals in a welcoming lounge setting, with strong appeal to fans of these themes, yet it faces typical early-stage hurdles that may temper the overall experience for some visitors.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Chris Luna
Anime inspired bar. The anime named drinks are great and about your typical $10/$12 like any bar. Arcade games are available. Wednesday OnlyJams gets poppin starting at 9. I love the booth sections. Yes there is loud music, you’re coming to drink at a bar, not just to watch anime like you’re at home. Ran by Cobra Arcade management. A lot of people in the reviews upset that it’s not super “anime authentic” here. I’m really not sure what more they expected out of a bar. This is pretty much a bar that just so happens to be anime inspired. To a normie that’s not super into anime, it was great and good enough for me!
Shannon Phipps
Super cool place to hang out. It's a small & the drinks are great if not slightly expensive for some beverages. Staff was attentive and nice. Their Kawaii drink was cute and tasty! ( wish they would sell the cups though- it would make more sense of the price for the drink) Def would go again just to hang out with friends so we could show off this novelty bar for fun.
Chris
Concern Regarding Unfair Treatment by Security Staff Dear Management, I’m reaching out to address an incident that occurred on 12/7/2024, which left me and my friend feeling unjustly targeted and disrespected by your security staff. At approximately 12:10 PM, my friend and I arrived at your establishment. There was no line, yet we were made to wait at the door without explanation. Shortly after, Alfredo, the security guard at the door, approached us and accused me of throwing a White Claw at him. This claim is completely false—I had nothing in my hands as I walked up, nor was I ever near him. I was stunned by this baseless accusation. The only action I took was throwing away some trash from my pocket—a few littered shooter bottles I picked up near my friend’s car—as we approached. This was done a good distance (5-10 feet) away from Alfredo. Despite this, he insisted that I got White Claw on him, which simply didn’t happen. When I asked to speak with a manager, another guard (a tall individual who introduced himself as “Marcus”) arrived and supported Alfredo’s claim, despite not witnessing the alleged incident. I instantly realized this was not the same Marcus I had spoken with during prior visits—the actual Marcus, the one with the long beard, has always struck me as professional and committed to excellent customer service. I understand the importance of security and holding patrons accountable for their actions. However, I firmly believe this situation was mishandled and based on an entirely fabricated claim. I respectfully ask management to review footage from that time, which I’m confident will confirm my account of events. My previous experiences at your establishment have been positive, but this incident left me feeling unfairly targeted and humiliated. I have spent hundreds of dollars at your venue and genuinely enjoyed coming here, but I’m now hesitant to return due to how I was treated. I hope this feedback can be used constructively to ensure other patrons don’t have similar experiences in the future. Thank you for your time and consideration. I’m happy to provide any additional details if needed. Sincerely, Mistreated customer
Kyrsten Wetzel
This place can be so fun but i feel that if they adjusted their volume to match the amount of people inside it would make mire sense, like if theres 9 ppl inside it can be loud but shouldnt be suuuper excessive. I feel its more in harmony with the fluctuations of the environment, and would be beneficial for the mental health of the employees. It should be considered how it affects customers too. Just what i think. Idk if it affects them but humans are sooo sensitive and we should b more conscious of the way this typa thang affects us as creatures. I have fun dancing here tho. Ok im done
Iman Muhammad
Hi- Score is most definitely a vibe. idk who they be having DJ on wed (r&b night) but he hasn’t been doing a great job, so idk if that’s management or what, but a dj who knows good music and how to maintain a vibe would be nice bc the current dj knows how to clear a room. thank you. LET A MF CATCH A VIBE.
How to reach Hi-score club
None
Website: None
Why Hi-score club may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Hi-Score Club with your friends?
Hi-Score Club in Phoenix, Arizona, offers a uniquely vibrant setting to gather with friends for a fun and nostalgic experience. If you're looking to break away from the usual dinner or movie outing, this venue brings together the best of arcade gaming, good food, and a lively atmosphere that sparks camaraderie and shared memories. It supports a laid-back vibe that invites groups to immerse themselves in classic video games, craft beverages, and great conversation in a space designed for socializing and entertainment. Especially for groups who value interactive activities and want to relive the excitement of arcade culture, Hi-Score Club is a compelling choice. The staff's enthusiasm for both games and drinks helps create an engaging environment where everyone feels welcome and entertained. Whether you want to challenge friends in friendly competition or relax over tasty food and drinks, this place encourages connections through shared fun and nostalgia. It is a spot where old-school gaming meets a modern social scene—perfect for friend groups looking to rally around something upbeat and different from the norm.
What kinds of activities does Hi-Score Club offer for a group meetup?
Hi-Score Club specializes in bringing back the golden age of arcade games, featuring a diverse collection of classic and modern arcade machines that can appeal to gamers of all skill levels. Whether your group prefers pinball, retro video games, or more contemporary arcade styles, there's plenty to explore and enjoy. Playing arcade games as a group builds a lively and friendly competition that naturally sparks laughter and interaction. Apart from gaming, the club offers a variety of beverages, including craft beers that complement the casual environment perfectly. Their commitment to both games and drinks means that groups can spend hours moving between rounds of games and savoring refreshments without the need to rush. Moreover, the venue’s layout is designed to accommodate groups comfortably, with enough space to gather around machines and share the experience collectively. This balance of interactive gameplay and social comfort makes the club an excellent location for group meetups, fostering a blend of recreation and relaxation.
Why is Hi-Score Club the perfect place for a family or friends outing?
Hi-Score Club works well not just for friends but also for family outings because its atmosphere strikes a balance between fun and approachability. Its selection of food, ranging from tasty sandwiches to snacks, makes it easy to feed a diverse group with varying tastes and ages. The menu supports casual dining, ideal for groups that may want a snack or a settling meal while engaging in their arcade adventures. For families, the nostalgic arcade games can be a fantastic way for parents to share a slice of their youth with their children, creating a multigenerational bonding experience. The cleanliness and well-maintained state of the machines offer a safe and hassle-free environment for all ages. The staff’s attentive and friendly service adds to the welcoming feeling, ensuring that everyone’s needs—from food to game tips—are met. This inclusive and fun-oriented environment makes it a reliable choice for casual meetups, birthday parties, or just a laid-back day out.
How does the food and drink menu enhance the Hi-Score Club experience?
The food and drink offerings at Hi-Score Club play a significant role in complementing the arcade and social experience. The menu features satisfying comfort food that pairs well with the casual, playful atmosphere—think flavorful sandwiches and shareable snacks that keep you energized through extended hours of gameplay. The beer selection, noted for its quality, appeals to groups looking to unwind with a drink after friendly competitions. This thoughtful curation of both drinks and food means that groups can easily transition from an active game session to relaxing around a table without needing to leave the venue. The combination of tasty food, quality beverages, and engaging games ensures attendees have a well-rounded and enjoyable outing. The club’s focus on keeping the menu simple but solid means that guests spend more time socializing and gaming, and less time waiting or hunting for options.
What makes the atmosphere at Hi-Score Club ideal for social gatherings?
Hi-Score Club thrives on an atmosphere that is both fun and social, which is central to its appeal as a meetup spot. The venue exudes a retro charm coupled with a convivial energy that encourages interaction and group participation. The lighting, music, and layout all contribute to creating an inviting environment where people feel comfortable jumping into games or chatting with friends over drinks. It manages to balance being lively without overwhelming, which helps groups stay connected and engaged throughout their visit. Staff at Hi-Score Club are known for their friendliness and support, which enhances the overall vibe by making visitors feel welcome and valued. Whether your group is big or small, the ambiance adapts to foster a sense of community and enjoyment, making it a destination where everyone can gather, relax, and have genuine fun together.
How accessible and convenient is Hi-Score Club for group events?
Located in downtown Phoenix at 801 North 2nd Street, Hi-Score Club benefits from a central and easy-to-reach location, which is ideal for groups coming from different parts of the city or even visitors exploring Phoenix. Being in a vibrant urban area means that transportation options, parking, and nearby amenities are generally accessible, easing the logistics of group meetups. Although the business hours are not always widely publicized, its presence in a lively district suggests that scheduling a visit can often be coordinated around other plans, such as a night out or a local event. The venue’s private ownership and focused niche make it adaptable for different types of group occasions, be it casual afternoon meetups or lively evening parties. This convenience solidifies Hi-Score Club as a practical choice for groups wanting an effortless yet engaging meetup location without the hassle found at more conventional or crowded spots.
How do experiences from previous visitors shape the perception of Hi-Score Club?
Visitor feedback points to Hi-Score Club being a solid choice for those who enjoy arcade fun mixed with good company. Reviews highlight the clean environment and the nostalgic joy that the arcade games bring to many guests. Patrons often mention the friendly staff and quality beer selection as touches that make the experience inviting and enjoyable. Some remark on appreciating the food, describing it as tasty and fitting for the atmosphere, even if not gourmet. A few note that the pricing on arcade machines can feel a bit old-fashioned, requiring quarters reminiscent of past decades, which can be a charming or minor hassle depending on your viewpoint. Overall, the consensus is positive about the club as a fun and social destination that’s well suited for group gatherings. Its modest 3.5-star rating and about 55 reviews indicate a dependable but unpretentious vibe, perfect for those who prioritize experience and interaction over luxury.
What are the unique selling points that distinguish Hi-Score Club from other venues?
Hi-Score Club stands out by combining an authentic arcade experience with a modern social atmosphere, a mix that few venues achieve with such cohesiveness. Unlike typical bars or restaurants, it integrates interactive gaming as an essential part of the social fabric, encouraging guests to actively engage rather than passively consume. This focus on arcade culture offers a nostalgic and refreshing change from the usual meetup spots that rely solely on food or drink ambiance. The dual emphasis on gaming and a solid beverage and food menu caters to a wide spectrum of group preferences, from gaming enthusiasts to casual hangout seekers. This blend of activity, quality refreshments, and social warmth makes it a compelling choice for those wanting an outing that is both entertaining and memorable. For groups tired of standard nightlife options, Hi-Score Club provides a unique venue where fun, interaction, and connection are the main attractions.