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Space Ace

Play Space Ace at Arcade Time Machine

Screenshot from Space Ace arcade game at Arcade Time Machine.
Colorful Space Ace arcade game poster with characters and stars.
Animated scene from Space Ace with a girl and a man on a motorcycle.

Space Ace Arcade Experience

A legendary 1980s arcade classic, stunning animated adventure, and fast reflex action in Stockton-on-Tees.

Space Ace is one of the most iconic arcade games of the 1980s, created by legendary animator Don Bluth as the follow-up to Dragon's Lair. Combining spectacular hand-drawn animation with arcade gameplay, Space Ace feels like stepping inside an interactive cartoon.

Available at Arcade Time Machine in Stockton-on-Tees, Space Ace is perfect for retro gaming enthusiasts, families, kids parties, and anyone who wants to experience one of the most unusual and visually impressive arcade games ever created.

What Is Space Ace?

Originally released in 1984, Space Ace puts you in the role of Ace, a heroic space adventurer attempting to stop the evil Commander Borf and rescue Kimberly. Borf's plan is to use his Infanto-Ray to reduce humanity to infants and take over Earth.

Unlike traditional arcade games, Space Ace uses full-motion animated sequences. Players must react at exactly the right moment by moving in the correct direction or pressing the action button to survive each scene.

The result is a unique combination of arcade game, interactive cartoon and cinematic adventure that was groundbreaking when it first appeared in arcades.

Why Play Space Ace in Stockton-on-Tees?

Space Ace offers something completely different from traditional arcade games. Instead of controlling a character through a conventional platform or shooting level, you become part of a fast-moving animated adventure where your reactions determine what happens next.

At Arcade Time Machine in Stockton-on-Tees, Space Ace is part of our collection of retro and modern gaming experiences, giving visitors the opportunity to experience a genuine piece of arcade history.

It is particularly appealing to anyone who remembers the spectacular LaserDisc arcade games of the 1980s, while also being a fascinating experience for younger players discovering them for the first time.

Interactive Cartoon Adventure

The biggest attraction of Space Ace is its incredible animation. Created by Don Bluth and his animation team, the game uses cinematic animated sequences instead of traditional pixel-based graphics.

Every successful input moves the story forward, while a mistake can send Ace into one of the game's spectacular animated death sequences.

The result is fast-paced, funny and often unpredictable, with players having to watch the action carefully and react quickly.

Classic 1980s Arcade Gaming

Space Ace is a perfect example of the experimental arcade gaming that appeared during the 1980s. The original game used LaserDisc technology to deliver animation that was far beyond what most conventional arcade hardware could produce at the time.

The modern version preserves the original arcade scenes while making the game accessible on modern systems. It also includes a global high-score list and a watch feature for enjoying the animation.

For retro gaming fans, Space Ace provides a chance to experience an important part of arcade history in a modern arcade environment.

Perfect for Kids Parties in Stockton-on-Tees

Space Ace can be a fantastic choice for kids parties in Stockton-on-Tees, particularly for children who enjoy cartoons, science fiction and arcade games.

The colourful animation immediately grabs attention, while the simple directional and action controls make it possible to start playing without learning complicated game mechanics.

Players can take turns trying to get further through the adventure, making Space Ace a fun addition to group gaming sessions and birthday celebrations.

Test Your Reflexes

Space Ace is all about timing and concentration. Players need to watch the animation carefully and react when the correct action appears.

Different difficulty levels provide additional challenge, while multiple paths through some scenes encourage players to replay the game and discover more of the adventure.

It creates a very different type of competitive arcade experience where remembering sequences, watching for visual cues and reacting quickly are the keys to success.

Key Highlights of Space Ace

  • Classic 1984 arcade game
  • Created by legendary animator Don Bluth
  • Follow-up to Dragon's Lair
  • Full-motion animated arcade adventure
  • Classic LaserDisc arcade experience
  • Fast reflex-based gameplay
  • Multiple difficulty levels
  • Multiple paths through parts of the adventure
  • Stunning hand-drawn animation
  • Perfect for retro gaming fans in Stockton-on-Tees
  • Great for kids parties and family gaming
  • A unique combination of arcade game and interactive cartoon

Retro Gaming and Modern Arcade Fun

Arcade Time Machine brings together classic retro games and modern gaming experiences in Stockton-on-Tees. Space Ace represents the very best of the experimental arcade era, when developers were finding new ways to combine technology, animation and interactive entertainment.

If you grew up with 1980s arcades, Space Ace offers a huge dose of nostalgia. For younger players, it provides a chance to discover what made these spectacular arcade machines so different from ordinary home video games.

An Arcade Classic Unlike Anything Else

Space Ace isn't a conventional shooter, platformer or racing game. It's an interactive animated adventure where your reactions decide whether Ace survives each dangerous situation.

The combination of classic arcade difficulty, spectacular animation, science-fiction adventure and Don Bluth's distinctive cartoon style makes Space Ace one of the most unusual games in the Arcade Time Machine collection.

Visit Arcade Time Machine in Stockton-on-Tees

Looking for retro gaming, modern arcade games or kids parties in Stockton-on-Tees? Space Ace offers a unique opportunity to experience one of the most famous animated arcade games of the 1980s.

Visit Arcade Time Machine in Stockton-on-Tees and experience Space Ace alongside a huge collection of retro and modern arcade games.

New Star GP

Play New Star GP at Arcade Time Machine

Family-friendly arcade racing game at Arcade Time Machine in Stockton-on-Tees.
Racing seat and wheel gaming setup for arcade racing games.
Family-friendly racing game at Arcade Time Machine in Stockton-on-Tees.

New Star GP Arcade Racing Experience

Retro-inspired motorsport, fast arcade racing, and an immersive steering wheel setup in Stockton-on-Tees.

New Star GP is a fast and exciting arcade motorsport game that combines colourful retro visuals with modern arcade racing gameplay. Taking inspiration from classic racing games of the 1990s, it lets players build a racing career across decades of motorsport while battling opponents on the track.

At Arcade Time Machine in Stockton-on-Tees, New Star GP is available on a dedicated sim racer setup with a steering wheel and pedals, giving players a more immersive way to experience its fast-paced arcade racing action.

What Is New Star GP?

New Star GP is an arcade racing game where players take control of their own motorsport team and race through different eras of racing, starting in the 1980s and progressing through the decades towards modern-day motorsport.

Along the way, players can upgrade their cars and team, make strategic decisions and compete in a variety of racing events including Grand Prix races, elimination races, time trials, checkpoint races and rival battles.

The game combines simple, accessible arcade driving with additional racing strategy, including tyre wear, fuel, component reliability, slipstreaming and pit strategy.

Why Play New Star GP in Stockton-on-Tees?

New Star GP is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a racing game that feels like a modern recreation of the classic arcade racing experience.

At Arcade Time Machine in Stockton-on-Tees, the game is played using a dedicated sim racer setup with a steering wheel and pedals, making the racing experience more immersive than simply playing with a standard controller.

The combination of physical racing controls, retro-inspired graphics and fast arcade gameplay makes New Star GP a great choice for both racing fans and casual gamers.

Play on a Sim Racing Setup

One of the highlights of New Star GP at Arcade Time Machine is the dedicated sim racing setup. Players can get behind the steering wheel, use the pedals and take control of their racing car in a proper driving position.

New Star GP officially supports recent Logitech and Thrustmaster steering wheels, making it particularly well suited to a dedicated racing setup.

The steering wheel setup adds an extra level of immersion while keeping the accessible arcade handling that makes New Star GP easy and enjoyable to play.

Retro Racing with Modern Arcade Gameplay

New Star GP deliberately captures the look and feel of classic 1990s racing games while adding modern gameplay features and presentation.

The retro visual style and soundtrack create a nostalgic racing atmosphere, while the career progression, car upgrades and racing strategy give players plenty of reasons to keep playing.

It is an excellent example of modern retro gaming, combining old-school arcade racing ideas with contemporary gameplay.

Race Through the Decades

New Star GP takes players on a motorsport journey through different decades, beginning in the 1980s and progressing through the 1990s, 2000s, 2010s and beyond.

Each era brings new cars, opponents and challenges, giving the career mode a strong sense of progression.

Players aren't simply racing from one event to the next — they are developing their car, managing their team and trying to build a successful motorsport career.

Perfect for Kids Parties in Stockton-on-Tees

New Star GP is a great choice for kids parties in Stockton-on-Tees, particularly for children who love cars, racing and driving games.

The arcade-style controls make it accessible to younger players, while the steering wheel and pedals make the experience feel like a real racing game.

Kids can compete against friends, chase faster lap times and see who can become the best driver, making it a fun addition to group gaming sessions and birthday celebrations.

Competitive Multiplayer Racing

New Star GP also features split-screen multiplayer for up to four players, making it ideal for competitive gaming with friends and family.

Players can compete across different tracks and racing modes while trying to score more points and finish ahead of their rivals.

This makes New Star GP particularly well suited to the social atmosphere of an arcade, where friendly competition is all part of the experience.

Key Highlights of New Star GP

  • Fast-paced arcade motorsport racing
  • Dedicated sim racer setup at Arcade Time Machine
  • Steering wheel and pedal controls
  • Retro-inspired 1990s racing visuals
  • Career mode spanning multiple decades
  • Car upgrades and motorsport team management
  • Tyre, fuel and pit-stop strategy
  • Grand Prix, elimination and time trial events
  • Split-screen multiplayer for up to four players
  • Perfect for kids parties in Stockton-on-Tees
  • Great for racing fans and retro gaming enthusiasts
  • Modern arcade racing with an authentic driving setup

Retro and Modern Gaming in Stockton-on-Tees

Arcade Time Machine brings together classic retro gaming and modern gaming experiences in Stockton-on-Tees. New Star GP fits perfectly into that mix by recreating the feel of classic arcade racing while making use of modern racing hardware.

Whether you remember the racing games of the 1990s or you're discovering arcade racing for the first time, New Star GP offers a fun and accessible way to experience competitive motorsport.

Arcade Racing for Everyone

New Star GP offers something for everyone, from casual players looking for a quick race to dedicated racing fans who want to work through a full motorsport career.

The combination of arcade gameplay, retro presentation and the dedicated sim racing setup makes it one of the most distinctive racing experiences at Arcade Time Machine.

Visit Arcade Time Machine in Stockton-on-Tees

Looking for arcade racing, retro gaming, modern gaming or kids parties in Stockton-on-Tees? New Star GP gives you the chance to get behind a proper steering wheel and experience fast-paced arcade motorsport on a dedicated sim racer setup.

Visit Arcade Time Machine in Stockton-on-Tees and experience New Star GP alongside a huge collection of retro and modern arcade games.

How AI Helped Turn a Lifelong Arcade Dream Into Reality

How AI Helped Me Build a Smart Arcade Management System – Without Being a Programmer

When most people think about AI helping businesses, they imagine it writing emails, creating social media posts or generating images.

For me, it went much further than that.

As the founder of Arcade Time Machine, opening in Stockton-on-Tees on 16 July, I used AI to help create something I never thought I’d be capable of building myself—a custom arcade management system that controls and monitors an entire entertainment venue.

Starting with an Idea, Not Programming Experience

Before starting Arcade Time Machine, I had very little software development knowledge.

I knew exactly what I wanted the arcade to do, but I had no idea how to build the technology behind it. Hiring a software development company to create a bespoke system would have been far beyond the budget of a new independent business.

Instead, I began working alongside modern AI tools.

Rather than replacing my ideas, AI acted like a technical partner, helping me understand programming concepts, solve problems, write code, fix bugs and continually improve the system until it worked exactly as I wanted.

Building the Brain of the Arcade

One of the biggest challenges was managing dozens of gaming machines spread throughout the venue.

I wanted something that simply didn’t exist off the shelf.

Working with AI, I built a central management platform that allows me to oversee the entire arcade from one dashboard.

The system can:

  • Turn every arcade machine on or off with a single click.

  • Monitor which machines are online, offline or currently being played.

  • Detect hardware faults before customers report them.

  • Identify controller issues and other technical problems.

  • Record how long customers spend on each game.

  • Show which games are the most popular.

  • Collect real usage statistics to help improve the layout of the arcade.

  • Reduce electricity costs by powering machines only when they’re needed.

  • Help schedule maintenance before small issues become major problems.

Instead of walking around checking every machine individually, I can now see the health of the entire venue in seconds.

Learning Through AI

The most surprising part of the journey wasn’t that AI could write code.

It was that it could explain why the code worked.

Whenever I encountered a problem, AI helped break it down into manageable steps, allowing me to learn while building.

Every challenge became an opportunity to understand a little more about programming, networking, automation and systems design.

Rather than simply generating solutions, it became an educational tool that helped me develop skills I never expected to have.

Beyond the Management System

The custom dashboard is only one part of the story.

AI has also helped throughout almost every stage of building Arcade Time Machine, including:

  • business planning

  • financial forecasting

  • marketing strategy

  • website content

  • branding

  • operational planning

  • technical troubleshooting

  • sourcing affordable equipment

  • customer experience ideas

  • planning future expansion

For a small independent business, having access to that kind of assistance has been transformational.

A Modern Arcade Built for Today’s Players

Arcade Time Machine combines classic gaming nostalgia with modern technology.

Visitors will find retro arcade favourites alongside modern multiplayer games, driving simulators, custom-built control systems, ultra-wide gaming displays and immersive gaming experiences.

While the games celebrate the past, the technology running behind the scenes is firmly focused on the future.

Looking Ahead

People often ask whether AI will replace jobs.

My experience has been very different.

AI didn’t replace the vision behind Arcade Time Machine—it helped make that vision possible.

Without it, many of the systems now running the arcade would simply never have been built.

For independent businesses with limited budgets, AI has the potential to level the playing field, allowing small business owners to create technology that would once have required an entire software development team.

Arcade Time Machine opens on 16 July, and while visitors will come for the games, much of what makes the venue work happens quietly behind the scenes through a management system that simply wouldn’t exist without the help of AI.

It’s proof that, with the right tools and determination, even someone with little technical experience can build something genuinely innovative.

Arcade Time Machine, a new retro and modern arcade venue opening in Stockton-on-Tees this June, may be built around nostalgia — but behind the scenes, modern AI technology has played a major role in bringing the business to life.

Founder John says he started the project with very little technical knowledge, but used AI tools throughout the journey to help solve problems, learn new skills, modernise systems, and turn a lifelong dream into a reality.

Retro Arcade“Arcades were a huge part of my childhood,” says John. “I remember walking into arcades in Redcar with my family, hearing the sounds, seeing the flashing lights, discovering new games, and standing shoulder to shoulder with friends and family playing together. I wanted to recreate that feeling for people today — but also bring the arcade experience into the modern age.”

AI-assisted tools were used across almost every part of the business, including:

Arcade and server setup

Technical troubleshooting and automation

Website content and branding

Marketing and promotional artwork

Customer experience planning

Business operations and workflow ideas

Modern analytics systems are also being used behind the scenes to help understand which arcade games customers enjoy most, how long people spend on different experiences, and which games create the biggest social interaction — helping Arcade Time Machine constantly improve and evolve the customer experience.

“AI didn’t replace the passion or the vision,” says John. “But it gave me the confidence to solve problems, learn as I went, and build something I never thought I’d be capable of creating on my own.”

Inspired by a lifelong love of gaming — from the ZX Spectrum and Commodore 64 to the Sega Mega Drive and modern arcade experiences — Arcade Time Machine combines retro nostalgia with modern technology, immersive experiences, and updated arcade classics.

The venue will feature a mixture of retro and modern gaming experiences, including racing simulators, light gun shooters, multiplayer party games, fighting games, and arcade-inspired modern remakes.

John believes AI could become a major tool for independent businesses and entrepreneurs by helping passionate people overcome technical barriers and compete in ways that were previously impossible without large teams or specialist knowledge.

Arcade Time Machine officially opens on 5th June in Stockton-on-Tees.

For more information:
https://arcadetimemachine.co.uk

Media enquiries:
admin@arcadetimemachine.co.uk

Arcade Time Machine Bringing Retro Gaming Experience to Stockton-on-Tees

Arcade Time Machine Bringing Retro Gaming Experience to Stockton-on-Tees

A brand-new retro and modern arcade experience is set to open in Stockton-on-Tees this June, bringing classic gaming nostalgia and modern arcade excitement together under one roof.

Arcade Time Machine, founded by lifelong gaming enthusiast John, was inspired by childhood memories of visiting arcades in Redcar with family and friends during the golden age of gaming.

The venue aims to recreate the excitement, atmosphere, and social experience that made arcades such an important part of growing up for so many people.

“Arcades were always more than just games to me,” says John, founder of Arcade Time Machine. “They were places where families and friends came together, stood shoulder to shoulder, competed, laughed, and created memories. That feeling stayed with me my whole life, and now I want to bring that experience back for a new generation.”

Visitors to Arcade Time Machine will be able to enjoy a mix of retro classics and modern arcade experiences, including driving games, light gun shooters, multiplayer party games, fighting games, and updated versions of beloved arcade titles.

Inspired by a lifelong passion for gaming — from the ZX Spectrum and Commodore 64 through to the Sega Mega Drive and beyond — Arcade Time Machine combines nostalgia with modern technology to create a unique entertainment venue for all ages.

Arcade Time Machine officially opens on 5th June in Stockton-on-Tees, with a special opening offer of £12.50 available for a limited time.

For more information, visit:
https://arcadetimemachine.co.uk

Follow Arcade Time Machine on social media for updates, events, and exclusive opening offers.

Media enquiries:
admin@arcadetimemachine.co.uk

How Technology Is Changing Small Business Startups

How Technology Is Changing Small Business Startups

Long before founding Arcade Time Machine, Jon worked as a business advisor during the early days of internet marketing — a time when many small businesses were only just beginning to understand the potential of getting online.

“Even 20 years ago, I could already see how digital marketing would allow smaller businesses to compete with much larger organisations,” says Jon. “The problem back then was that websites, online marketing, and professional services were expensive and out of reach for many independent businesses.”

Determined to help smaller companies compete, Jon taught himself web design and digital marketing so he could help clients build websites, improve visibility online, and reach new customers without massive budgets.

Today, Jon believes modern AI technology is creating another major shift for independent businesses — one that could be just as significant as the early rise of the internet itself.

While building Arcade Time Machine, AI-assisted tools were used throughout the startup process to help overcome technical barriers, improve planning, and allow the business to compete more effectively despite limited resources.

AI-supported workflows helped with:

  • Cash flow forecasting and business planning
  • Marketing strategy and customer engagement ideas
  • Understanding customer demographics and audience profiles
  • Pricing structure analysis
  • Risk analysis and operational planning
  • Promotional artwork and marketing materials
  • Website content and branding
  • Sourcing more cost-effective equipment and solutions
  • Technical troubleshooting and automation


“Years ago, small businesses struggled because specialist knowledge was expensive,” says Jon. “You needed separate people for marketing, technical support, design, business planning, and web development. AI is now helping smaller businesses access knowledge and tools that previously would have been unaffordable.”

Jon believes AI is becoming a major opportunity for entrepreneurs with strong ideas and passion, even if they don’t come from highly technical or corporate backgrounds.

“AI didn’t build the business for me,” he explains. “But it helped me learn faster, solve problems, improve ideas, and compete in ways that would have been impossible for many small businesses years ago.”

Arcade Time Machine itself reflects that blend of nostalgia and modern technology — combining retro gaming culture with immersive experiences, modern systems, data-driven improvements, and innovative customer engagement ideas.

“Technology has always changed business,” says Jon. “The internet changed everything 20 years ago. I believe AI is going to do the same for the next generation of independent businesses.”

Arcade Time Machine is planned to open in July 2026 in Stockton-on-Tees.

For updates and more information, visit:


https://arcadetimemachine.co.uk

Media Enquiries:

admin@arcadetimemachine.co.uk

Why Modern Entertainment Needs To Be Immersive

Why Modern Entertainment Needs To Be Immersive

Modern audiences expect more from entertainment than ever before. People no longer just want to watch, play, or consume content — they want experiences that feel immersive, memorable, and exciting the moment they walk through the door.

For Arcade Time Machine founder Jon, that philosophy has shaped the entire vision behind the venue.

“I didn’t just want rows of arcade machines,” says Jon. “I wanted people to feel like they were stepping into the worlds of the games themselves. The atmosphere, controls, visuals, sound, lighting, and social experience all matter.”

While Arcade Time Machine is heavily inspired by retro gaming, modern technology is being used throughout the venue to completely transform how classic games can be experienced today.

Jon has spent years experimenting with ways to modernise retro gaming experiences using specialist equipment, custom setups, and immersive display technology.

Some of these experiences include:

  • Using Thrustmaster HOTAS flight controls with classic Star Wars arcade and flight games
  • Pairing retro-style controls with modern indie arcade-inspired titles such as Fur Squadron Phoenix
  • Installing authentic arcade joysticks and buttons for modern fighting games like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge
  • Using ultra-wide 32:9 displays to create cinematic experiences for retro racing games and shoot ’em ups such as Dariusburst
  • Developing ideas for future 180-degree curved-screen arcade experiences
  • Importing specialist hardware such as an original Star Wars flight yoke from the USA to recreate authentic arcade-style gameplay


“The technology available today allows you to experience classic games in ways we could only dream about when we were younger,” says Jon. “You can take the gameplay and excitement people loved in arcades and make it feel even bigger, more immersive, and more physical.”

Arcade Time Machine combines retro nostalgia with modern display technology, immersive environments, multiplayer gaming, themed artwork, specialist controllers, and social gaming experiences designed to make visitors feel part of the action.

Jon believes modern entertainment venues increasingly need to create memorable physical experiences that people cannot get from simply sitting at home scrolling on a phone or watching content online.

“People want to feel something when they walk into a venue,” he says. “That’s what great arcades used to do — and modern technology gives us the chance to take that feeling even further.”

Arcade Time Machine is planned to open in July 2026 in Stockton-on-Tees.

For updates and more information, visit:


https://arcadetimemachine.co.uk

Media Enquiries:

admin@arcadetimemachine.co.uk

“`

The Death And Return Of Arcades

The Death And Return Of Arcades

For many people who grew up during the golden age of gaming, arcades were more than just places to play video games — they were social experiences, meeting places, and unforgettable parts of childhood.

Long before online gaming, voice chat, and digital downloads, arcades brought people together physically. Friends stood shoulder to shoulder competing for high scores, families walked from machine to machine discovering new games, and entire communities formed around the excitement of gaming.

“Some of my best memories growing up were inside arcades,” says Arcade Time Machine founder Jon. “You’d walk in and hear the sounds of machines everywhere, see crowds gathered around the newest games, and instantly feel excited. Arcades had an atmosphere that was impossible to recreate anywhere else.”

But as home consoles became more powerful and online gaming exploded, arcades slowly began to disappear from towns and seaside resorts across the country.

At the same time, many arcade venues shifted towards ticket redemption games and quick-play experiences aimed mainly at prizes rather than gameplay itself. While these venues remained popular with families, some of the social magic, competition, and discovery that defined classic arcades began to fade away.

“Arcades used to be about mastering games, competing with friends, and discovering incredible new experiences,” says Jon. “Modern gaming became more isolated. People were gaming online from home, often sitting alone with headsets on. I think many people missed the energy and atmosphere arcades used to create.”

In recent years, however, retro gaming has exploded in popularity. Classic games, retro-inspired modern releases, multiplayer party games, and immersive entertainment experiences have helped bring arcade culture back into the spotlight.

Younger players are discovering retro gaming for the first time, while older generations are reconnecting with the games and memories they grew up with.

Arcade Time Machine aims to help bring that social arcade experience back by combining retro gaming nostalgia with modern technology and immersive experiences designed around playing together.

Visitors will be able to enjoy a mixture of:

  • Retro arcade classics
  • Driving simulators
  • Light gun shooters
  • Multiplayer party games
  • Fighting games
  • Modern arcade-inspired experiences


“The best memories from arcades were never just about the machines,” says Jon. “They were about the people you experienced them with. That’s the feeling I want Arcade Time Machine to bring back.”

Arcade Time Machine is planned to open in July 2026 in Stockton-on-Tees.

For updates and more information, visit:


https://arcadetimemachine.co.uk

Media Enquiries:

admin@arcadetimemachine.co.uk

“`

Bringing Arcades Into The Modern Age

Bringing Arcades Into The Modern Age

Arcades may be built on nostalgia, but Arcade Time Machine founder Jon believes the future of arcades is just beginning.

While classic arcades created unforgettable memories for generations of gamers, Arcade Time Machine aims to combine that same excitement and social atmosphere with modern technology, immersive experiences, and data-driven improvements designed for today’s audiences.

“I didn’t want to simply recreate an old arcade,” says Jon. “I wanted to bring the arcade experience into the modern age while keeping the feeling that made arcades special in the first place.”

Inspired by childhood memories of arcades in Redcar, Jon spent years dreaming of opening his own arcade venue — a place where families and friends could stand shoulder to shoulder, compete together, and create memories through gaming.

Today, modern technology is helping make that vision possible in ways that never existed during the original golden age of arcades.

Arcade Time Machine combines retro classics with modern arcade-inspired experiences, including:

  • Driving simulators
  • Light gun shooters
  • Modern arcade remakes
  • Multiplayer party games
  • Classic fighting games
  • Immersive social gaming experiences

 

Behind the scenes, modern analytics systems are also being used to better understand which games players enjoy most, how long visitors spend on different experiences, and which arcade machines create the biggest social interaction.

“The idea is to constantly improve the experience,” says Jon. “Arcades were always evolving when I was younger. Every time you visited, there was something new to discover. I want people to feel that same excitement again.”

AI-assisted tools have also played a major role in helping build the business, supporting everything from technical troubleshooting and automation through to marketing, branding, customer experience ideas, and operational planning.

“Arcades are nostalgic, but the way we build and run entertainment businesses today is completely different,” Jon explains. “Technology allows independent businesses to create experiences that would have been impossible years ago.”

Arcade Time Machine is planned to open in July 2026 in Stockton-on-Tees.

For updates and more information, visit:


https://arcadetimemachine.co.uk

Media Enquiries:

admin@arcadetimemachine.co.uk

 

Why Retro Gaming Is Bigger Than Ever

Vintage TV and gaming console in a game collection room.
Video game shelves filled with classic and modern games at Arcade Time Machine.
Collection of vintage SEGA and other gaming consoles and accessories.
Various retro video game controllers including Sega, Nintendo, PlayStation, and others.
Collection of classic Sega Mega Drive/Genesis game cartridges.
Collection of vintage video game magazines including Sega, Amiga, and Sonic titles.
Collection of Jaguar video game boxes on the floor in front of a Jaguar console.
Game Boy Advance game boxes including Pac-Man, Finding Nemo, and SpongeBob.
Collection of classic video game boxes including Sega Genesis and PlayStation titles.
Sega Mega Drive game cartridges arranged on a wooden floor.

Why Retro Gaming Is Bigger Than Ever

Retro gaming has never been more popular.

From classic arcade machines and retro consoles to modern remakes and retro-inspired releases, gaming nostalgia has exploded over the last few years — and according to Arcade Time Machine founder Jon, the trend is only getting bigger.

“The generation that grew up with arcades, the Mega Drive, Super Nintendo, ZX Spectrum, and Commodore 64 are now adults wanting to reconnect with those memories,” says Jon. “At the same time, younger players are discovering these games for the first time and realising how fun and social they still are.”

Jon has spent years collecting retro games and gaming memorabilia, watching interest in classic gaming continue to grow through collecting, modern remakes, indie retro-inspired titles, and the return of arcade culture.

Classic franchises continue to make a comeback through remasters, sequels, and modern reimaginings inspired by the golden age of gaming. From arcade shooters and beat ’em ups to side-scrolling platformers and multiplayer classics, retro gaming continues to influence modern game design more than ever before.

“Gaming today can sometimes feel isolated,” says Jon. “But retro gaming was always social. It was about standing shoulder to shoulder with your friends, competing for high scores, discovering new games together, and creating memories. That’s something people still want.”

Arcade Time Machine aims to recreate that experience by combining retro nostalgia with modern gaming technology and immersive arcade experiences.

Visitors will be able to experience a mixture of classic arcade favourites alongside modern racing simulators, light gun shooters, fighting games, multiplayer party games, and modern arcade-inspired experiences influenced by retro gaming culture.

“Retro gaming never really disappeared,” says Jon. “People still love these games because they’re timeless. They’re easy to pick up, fun to play together, and full of personality. The excitement people feel walking into an arcade today is the same feeling I remember as a kid.”

Arcade Time Machine is planned to open in July 2026 in Stockton-on-Tees.

For updates and more information, visit:

https://arcadetimemachine.co.uk

Media Enquiries:

admin@arcadetimemachine.co.uk

How AI Helped Bring Arcade Time Machine to Life

How AI Helped Bring Arcade Time Machine to Life

Arcade Time Machine may be inspired by retro gaming nostalgia, but behind the scenes, modern AI technology has played a huge role in helping turn the project into reality.

Founder Jon says he started the journey with very little technical knowledge, but used AI tools throughout the process to help solve problems, modernise systems, learn new skills, and bring a lifelong dream to life.

“Arcades have always been about excitement, social gaming, and creating memories,” says Jon. “I wanted to recreate that feeling, but also bring the arcade experience into the modern age. AI helped me do things I never thought I’d be capable of doing on my own.”

AI-assisted tools have been used across almost every part of Arcade Time Machine, including:

  • Arcade and server setup
  • Technical troubleshooting
  • Automation and system management
  • Website content and branding
  • Marketing and promotional design
  • Business planning and workflow ideas
  • Customer experience improvements

 

Modern analytics systems are also helping Arcade Time Machine understand which games players enjoy most, how long people spend on different experiences, and which arcade machines create the biggest social interaction — helping continuously improve the venue and customer experience.

Inspired by a lifelong love of gaming — from the ZX Spectrum and Commodore 64 through to the Sega Mega Drive, retro arcades, and modern gaming experiences — Arcade Time Machine combines nostalgia with modern technology to create a unique entertainment venue for Stockton-on-Tees.

The venue will feature a mixture of retro classics and modern arcade experiences, including racing simulators, light gun shooters, multiplayer games, fighting games, and modern remakes inspired by the golden age of gaming.

“AI didn’t replace the passion or the vision,” says Jon. “But it gave me the confidence to learn, solve problems, and build something I never thought I’d be able to create.”

Arcade Time Machine is planned to open in July 2026 in Stockton-on-Tees.

For updates and more information, visit:


https://arcadetimemachine.co.uk

Media Enquiries:

admin@arcadetimemachine.co.uk

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Arcade Time Machine Bringing Retro Gaming Experience to Stockton-on-Tees

Arcade Time Machine Opening in Stockton-on-Tees this July

A brand-new retro and modern arcade experience is coming to Stockton-on-Tees this June, bringing together classic gaming nostalgia, modern arcade experiences, and the social magic that made arcades unforgettable.

Arcade Time Machine was created from a lifelong passion for gaming and arcade culture. Founder Jon grew up during the golden age of gaming, spending countless hours in arcades with family and friends, discovering new games, competing for high scores, and creating memories that lasted a lifetime.

“Arcades were always about more than just games,” says Jon. “They were places where people stood shoulder to shoulder, laughed together, competed together, and shared experiences you never forgot. I wanted to bring that feeling back for a new generation.”

Visitors to Arcade Time Machine will be able to enjoy a mixture of retro classics and modern arcade-inspired experiences, including:

  • Driving simulators
  • Light gun shooters
  • Multiplayer party games
  • Fighting games
  • Retro arcade classics
  • Modern remakes inspired by classic games


Inspired by gaming systems ranging from the ZX Spectrum and Commodore 64 through to the Sega Mega Drive and modern consoles, Arcade Time Machine combines nostalgia with modern technology to create a unique entertainment experience for families, friends, gamers, and anyone looking to relive the excitement of classic arcades.

Behind the scenes, modern systems and analytics are also being used to help improve the customer experience, allowing the venue to better understand which games players enjoy most and how people interact with the arcade environment.

Arcade Time Machine officially opens in July in Stockton-on-Tees.

A special opening offer of £12.50 will be available for a limited time.

For updates, events, and booking information, visit:


https://arcadetimemachine.co.uk

Media Enquiries:

admin@arcadetimemachine.co.uk

Arcade Time Machine – Coming Soon to Stockton-on-Tees!

Arcade Time Machine – Coming Soon to Stockton-on-Tees!

Arcade-logo-Stockton-on-tees

Get ready, retro gamers! Arcade Time Machine is gearing up to bring the ultimate classic arcade experience to Stockton-on-Tees! We’re setting up an incredible selection of legendary games, including joystick classics, force feedback racing, and 2-player light gun shooters like House of the Dead, OutRun, Time Crisis, and more.

Whether you’re a high-score chaser, multiplayer competitor, or just craving some nostalgic fun, our arcade will be your go-to spot for all things retro gaming. Plus, we’ll be hosting tournaments, themed nights, and kids’ party packages to make every visit unforgettable.

Stay tuned for our grand opening—the golden age of gaming is coming back!