Atlas Arcade

One of my favorite places on H street. Beer is reasonably priced as are the games. Sitting at the bar and renting the systems while having a beer is one of the more enjoyable experiences you'll have. Last time I went some of the games weren't functioning which really brings down the awesomeness. I still encourage you to go as it's a really fun time. My suggestion is to make it your first stop on a long night out. Spend some time having a few beers and playing a few games before hitting up the other local bars.

Great, personable bartenders (I've seen two of them so far, plus the owner - not sure what the turnover rate is but they were all solid). Honestly, most things here don't matter much aside from access to retro games. Decent rate (I think you can play most anything for about $1 an hour) and most of the time you can just come in and join in on a game of Smash or Mario Kart. I would also say not to undervalue the stairs - when you walk in you'll notice stairs going up - they lead to Church & State which is a great little spot for cocktails you can use to ask your date "Do you like video games? Let's go downstairs!"

Exactly what an 80's or 90's kid that grew up on Nintendo wants. Not all the games work all the time, but you will definitely be able to find something that will bring back memories. The bartender was awesome with our large group too.

Great time reliving my childhood. Not much of a bar scene but the games definitely make up for it.

Want a little place to play some arcade and console games with your new best friends? Come on in! Parking was par for the area, but once you're inside it was cool people all around. Not all of the games were working, but it was a good time regardless. They even had Rock Band set up to play for free, relived some late 2000s parties.

Think video and arcade games, but with bourbon and beer. This grown-up version of a childhood hangout offers all your favorite arcade games like Ms. Pacman and shoot-em-up assasin games, plus old school consoles for those who can't get enough Sega Genesis. This place is pretty small, but they pack a lot of games in there without it feeling claustrophobic. Plus, the bartender is super nice and she will help you if any of the games act up on you.

Fantastic booze prices and fun spot. Compared to larger bar-cades (like the titular barcade in NYC), this place comes out short. It's a small venue and the game selection is small. What's there is good. They have many classics but definitely not all. Overall a great night out and a hidden gem of DC.

Nearly none of the games work at this barcade and the drinks aren't too great which makes this place a really hard sell. They have some N64s and SNESs set up at the bar that you can pay-to-play hourly (which is cool), but because they're literally at the bar it makes ordering drinks next to impossible. The games that work don't have cup holders or anything so you're put into a position where you have to put you $7 beer or $9 mixed drink on the floor and hope that it doesn't get kicked over. All-in-all you'd be better off getting some beers and playing N64 at home.