Announcing Electric Town Arcade – Springfield's First Japanese-Style Arcade

Springfield arcade fans, rejoice! A brand-new arcade is set to open its doors – Electric Town Arcade, proudly billed as Springfield's first Japanese-style arcade. This isn't your typical local arcade; Electric Town is bringing an authentic slice of Japan's vibrant arcade culture right here to Missouri. In Japan, arcades are still "a very popular and lively scene," offering everything from crane games to high-tech rhythm games. Electric Town Arcade taps into that spirit with an edgy, immersive atmosphere and a game lineup unlike anything Springfield has seen before.

What is a "Japanese-Style" Arcade?

"Japanese-style" means you can expect features and games commonly found in the famous game centers of Tokyo (Akihabara's nickname is "Electric Town" for its rich arcade and electronics culture). Instead of the bulky wood cabinets of Western arcades, Electric Town is filled with sleek Japanese candy cabinets – sit-down arcade machines known for their compact metal/plastic designs and stylish look. These candy cabs (like Sega Blast City and Taito Vewlix) are usually white, adorned with dynamic marquees, and lined up back-to-back for head-to-head play.

They allow games to be swapped easily inside, meaning Electric Town can rotate game titles and offer a variety of experiences from one cabinet. Stepping into Electric Town Arcade will feel like walking into a gaming hall in Tokyo: neon lights, imported Japanese game machines, and the energetic tunes of arcade music in the air.

Filling a Gap in Springfield's Arcade Scene

Electric Town Arcade will be a game-changer for the local entertainment scene. Until now, Springfield's arcade offerings have been mainly retro or general entertainment. For example, the well-loved 1984 Arcade downtown focuses on 80s classics and pinball – a "rare experience" keeping the 80s arcade era alive.

Electric Town Arcade is the first in the city to focus on this niche. It caters to a growing community of gamers and anime/Japan enthusiasts who have been yearning for a place like this close to home.

Electric Town aims to attract:

• Locals – from hardcore gamers to families looking for a new fun outing. Teens and college students will love the modern games and competitive vibe.
• Tourists and Visitors – If you're visiting Springfield, Electric Town Arcade will be a must-see attraction for a unique night of entertainment.
• Japanese Pop Culture Fans – For anime, manga, and J-pop fans, Electric Town offers a taste of Japan's gaming culture right here in Missouri.

Coming 2026

Electric Town Arcade is slated to open in 2026, bringing Springfield its most unique arcade experience yet. Whether you're a competitive fighting game player, a rhythm game enthusiast, or just someone who wants to experience something different, Electric Town Arcade will have something for you.

Stay tuned for more updates, game announcements, and sneak peeks as we get closer to opening day!