Driven by nostalgia, arcades are experiencing a revival as "barcades" or arcade bars, blending gaming with social experiences. The documentary "Token Taverns" explores this trend, showcasing the resurgence of arcade culture through the stories of three Tampa Bay arcade bars: Vector, Reboot, and Lowry Parcade. Director Bob Rose follows the owners' journeys, from their unique approaches to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The film highlights the arcade community's resilience and adaptability, showcasing its growth and inclusivity, appealing to both seasoned gamers and younger generations.
In the golden era of the 1970s and 1980s, arcades were the hallowed halls of gaming prowess, where teenagers flocked like moths to a flame, lured by the allure of vibrant marquees, captivating graphics, and an endless array of pixelated wonders. The arcade was a sanctuary for gamers, a social hub where they honed their skills on classics like "Pac-Man" and "Donkey Kong" before deodorant and personal hygiene became essential.
However, the advent of home gaming consoles in the late 1990s dealt a blow to the arcade industry, relegating countless consoles to the depths of warehouses and storage units, their glorious days forgotten. But nostalgia, as potent as any potion, has breathed new life into arcades, giving rise to a novel concept: the arcade bar, or "barcade."
"Token Taverns," a captivating documentary by director Bob Rose, delves into this resurgence of arcade culture, exploring the transformative journey of arcade bars and breweries in the Tampa Bay area. The film features insightful interviews with Michael Burke, owner of Vector in Clearwater; George Courtney, proprietor of Reboot in Dunedin; and Robert Leonard, mastermind behind Lowry Parcade in Tampa.
Each business owner brought their unique touch to the arcade bar concept. Leonard's passion for microbrewing and craft brews transformed Lowry Parcade into a haven for local suds. Burke, a seasoned restorer of vintage arcade games, infused Vector with the authenticity of the golden era. Courtney, ever mindful of community, placed special emphasis on fostering a sense of belonging.
However, Rose's documentary took an unexpected turn when the COVID-19 pandemic struck in the midst of filming. The mandatory shutdowns and quarantines imposed in March 2020 dealt a heavy blow to businesses across the country, including the three Tampa Bay arcade bars featured in "Token Taverns."
Undeterred, the owners of these establishments demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability. They pivoted their operations, implemented innovative strategies, and tapped into the unwavering support of their loyal customers to weather the storm. Rose's film captures the relentless efforts of these entrepreneurs to safeguard their beloved businesses and the community they had built.
Today, two of the three arcade bars profiled in "Token Taverns" continue to thrive, a testament to the enduring popularity of this nostalgic concept. The broader arcade community in the Tampa Bay area and beyond has grown and become increasingly inclusive, embracing gamers of all ages and backgrounds.
Billy Mitchell, the legendary video game icon, eloquently articulates the enduring appeal of gaming in the documentary. "As long as the arcade bars evolve to entertain people, people are going to enjoy coming together, sharing a pastime that they did," Mitchell explains. "It's a passion that doesn't die."
"Token Taverns" is more than a love letter to arcade culture; it's a comprehensive chronicle of its ongoing renaissance. It's a story of perseverance, adaptation, and the unbreakable bonds that unite a community of passionate gamers. Rose's documentary sheds light on the unwavering dedication and vision of the individuals behind these vibrant establishments, who have steered their businesses through adversity and emerged stronger than ever.