Some of the many arcade style games like Pac Man and Galaga at Circuit Social.
Kami Whisenhunt |Marlin Chronicle
Pew Pew,” “Bling,” “do-do-do-do-do.” The noises of arcade classics like Centipede, Pac Man, Q*Bert and Galaga can be heard at Circuit Social, a nostalgic trip back in time or an easy-going night out with retro-inspired, glowing LED lighting and fun seating. The venue is laid back, and a good hangout spot to catch up with friends.
Corey, general manager of Circuit Social, has first hand experience with how a business idea, specifically this one, can spark from simply wanting to share a passion.
“I wish I had a better story, other than the owners were passionate about video games and beer. Five or six years ago they opened up a couple establishments, one in Richmond and one here. They had the idea to combine these things, and it seems like a pretty decent combination,” Cory said.
Circuit Social creates a way to unwind and connect with others through more than just games. People can chat and tell stories while eating some shareable foods like wings, nachos or flatbread. Grabbing a drink to sip on from Circuit Social’s self-serve alcohol tap wall is also an option. According to their website, there are 48 different craft beers, ciders and wines to enjoy before, after or during gaming. Non-alcoholic beverages, like soft drinks and water, are also available and can be bought at the bar area.
Circuit Social’s self-serve alcohol wall offers 48 different craft beers. Patrons can pour up to 32oz of their choice of beer at a time.
Kami Whisenhunt |Marlin Chronicle
Using the alcohol tap wall is a way for guests to make their experience more convenient and catered to them. They would first set up a tab at the check in desk, where they receive an activated game card. This card can be inserted into a card reader, allowing them to pour up to 32 oz at a time of their drink of choice. When they are ready for more, reactivation of the game card can be completed at the front desk. This gives a guest complete control over their drink, making it quick and simple.
Circuit Social has over 80 games available for the public to play ranging from 25 cents to a dollar per play. Money has to be added onto a game card, so it can easily be scanned at each desired game, creating a smoother time around the arcade for customers. Olivia Ambrose, a freshman, played the driving simulation game Mario Kart.
“I haven’t been here before but me and my friend have had a great time so far, and I love how many options there are for ways to have fun,” Ambrose said.
There are games to play with friends like bowling, skeeball or air hockey. Some other categories of games offered are multiplayer, shooting, fighting, driving and pinball. Circuit Social has a few rhythmic games as well, like Dance Dance Revolution: Extreme and general manager Cory’s favorite Guitar Hero.
Circuit Social offers a fun environment that is reminiscent of a vintage arcade
Kami Whisenhunt |Marlin Chronicle
Circuit Social is located in downtown Norfolk among other shops and eateries, but the lively, neon lights of the place stick out in a way that screams fun. The assistant manager of Circuit Social, whose job consists mostly of making sure operations go well up front and stay on track, moved to Norfolk on a whim and said she was drawn to the business by a sign in the window and the good vibe of it.
“I actually left this job for a little bit but came back, because I just loved it so much. I think the public enjoys it. I think it could be updated, but I think it’s a good place to just kind of hang out with friends,” the assistant manager said.
The staff of the arcade and bar area were very attentive to their customers. Cory said he likes his job because of the generally positive atmosphere of the place.
“There aren’t many unhappy people, and people want to have a good time here. So it’s unlike a lot of jobs, where you can find it to be very unpleasant at times. You know, there’s obviously hard work to do here sometimes, but if you have to be doing work it’s a pretty great place to do it,” Cory said.
Circuit Social strives to create the ideal blend of chilling out while still having some friendly competition. It’s an inclusive space that can appeal to everyone.
“It’s definitely a place where people from a lot of different walks of life come in and have a good time, both adults and kids,” Cory said.
Circuit Social is restricted to patrons of drinking age after p.m., but before then, anyone can come in and experience the glowy, spacious and nostalgic feel they have created for people to connect and have a great time together.
By Kami Whisenhunt
