Retro Ted’s World of Arcade opening in Poway on Saturday

August 4, 2026 - 21:28

A new spot for old-school gaming fans is set to debut in Poway on Saturday. Retro Ted's World of Arcade is not just another store. It is a hands-on space where visitors can step back to the golden age of coin-operated entertainment.

The shop will feature a rotating lineup of arcade cabinets, from classic fighting games to pinball machines. But the real draw is the tournament setup. Organizers plan to host regular competitions, giving local players a chance to test their skills against each other in a friendly but competitive atmosphere. The space is designed to feel less like a retail floor and more like a hangout, with music playing in the background and walls covered in vintage game posters.

According to the owner, the goal is to recreate the feel of a 1980s arcade, but with a modern twist. That means clean machines, working buttons, and a schedule of events that keeps things fresh. Visitors can expect to see games from the early days of the medium, alongside some lesser-known titles that never made it big in mainstream arcades.

The opening on Saturday will run from noon until late evening. Admission is free, though players will need tokens or quarters for the machines. There is also a small section selling retro-themed merchandise, like T-shirts and stickers, for those who want to take a piece of the experience home. For now, the shop is starting with a modest collection, but the owner says more cabinets are on the way, with plans to rotate games monthly based on player feedback.