Creepy Crawlers and Classic Controls: The Story of Centipede at Arcade 92

Creepy Crawlers and Classic Controls: The Story of Centipede at Arcade 92

In the golden age of arcade gaming, one title crept its way into the hearts of players everywhere—Centipede. Released in 1980 by Atari, this fast-paced shooter stood out not only for its colorful graphics and addictive gameplay but also for the unique legacy it brought to the industry. Designed by Ed Logg and Dona Bailey (one of the first female game designers in arcade history), Centipede brought a fresh perspective to gaming that appealed to both male and female players during a time when the arcade scene was heavily male-dominated.

The premise of Centipede is deceptively simple. You control a small "bug blaster" at the bottom of the screen, fending off an onslaught of creepy crawlers like centipedes, spiders, fleas, and scorpions. The centipede winds its way down the screen, bouncing off mushrooms and splitting into segments when shot. The longer you survive, the faster and more intense the action becomes. It was this ramping challenge and hypnotic rhythm that kept players coming back for "just one more try."

Fun facts? Oh yeah:

1. Trackball Triumph – Centipede was one of the first arcade games to use a trackball controller, allowing for smooth and precise movement. This helped differentiate it from the joystick-dominated competition.

2. Historic Design – Dona Bailey became a trailblazer as one of the first women to program an arcade game, and she purposely designed the game to appeal to a broader demographic—particularly women and kids—resulting in a more inclusive gaming experience.

3. Sound Strategy – The audio in Centipede wasn’t just for flair—it was part of the gameplay. The increasing tempo of the background sound added tension and urgency as the game progressed.

   
   

Centipede was a pillar in shaping what arcade games could be. It blended action, strategy, and creativity into one thrilling package, and it’s no surprise that even over 40 years later, it still makes an appearance in retro arcades across the country—including at Arcade 92, where timeless fun never goes out of style.

Where Gaming, Food, and Fun Collide: Welcome to Arcade 92

If you're looking for a restaurant and arcade near me that serves up nostalgia with a side of fun, Arcade 92 delivers the ultimate experience. Located in both Grapevine and Flower Mound, Arcade 92 combines the charm of classic arcade games with modern hospitality, making it the go-to arcade bar for gamers of all ages.

With over 100 titles in rotation, from vintage icons like Pac Man and Centipede to modern video games and pinball machines, there’s something here for everyone. Whether you're into co-op couch battles or want to top the leaderboard on your favorite cabinet, the action never stops. And for the grown-ups, our full-service cocktail bar serves up signature drinks and local brews, making it the perfect spot for an adult arcade night out.

Arcade 92 isn’t just for date nights and nostalgia trips—it's also a top choice for family activities near me and kids activities near me. We’ve created an environment that welcomes everyone from parents with toddlers to teens and retro gamers. And if you're searching for a place to host your next corporate gathering, our custom team building packages offer a one-of-a-kind way to connect and compete in a fun, low-pressure setting.

Whether you’re chasing high scores or just looking to unwind after a long day, Arcade 92 is your local destination for unbeatable arcade fun, great food, and good vibes. When you’re wondering, “Where can I find a cool arcade near me with food, drinks, and a killer game lineup?”—Arcade 92 is the answer.

The Perfect Location for Fun in Grapevine: Visit Arcade 92

Arcade 92 in Grapevine, Texas, isn’t just any arcade—it’s strategically located in one of the most entertainment-rich areas in the DFW metroplex. Whether you're visiting from out of town or a local on the lookout for a new weekend hangout, Arcade 92 is perfectly placed near several major attractions that make planning a full day of fun a breeze.

Just minutes away from Great Wolf Lodge, Arcade 92 is the perfect follow-up to a day of water slides and family adventure. Whether you're winding down or still on the hunt for high-energy excitement, the arcade’s mix of retro classics and modern games makes it an easy next stop.

Looking for something immersive and art-focused? Meow Wolf's The Real Unreal is just a short drive away, offering mind-bending exhibits and dreamlike environments. Pair that with the electric atmosphere of Arcade 92 and you’ve got an unforgettable outing packed with creativity and play.

Frequent flyers and travelers, take note: Arcade 92 is conveniently close to DFW Airport, making it an ideal layover destination or a pre/post-flight hangout spot. And if you’re shopping ‘til you drop at Grapevine Mills, Arcade 92 is just down the road—perfect for taking a break from retail therapy and grabbing a bite and a blast of nostalgia.

Last but not least, we’re also close to the luxurious Gaylord Texan Resort, making us a top pick for guests looking for family-friendly arcade games, delicious food, and even a little grown-up time at the cocktail bar.

With so many nearby attractions and a game lineup that spans generations, Arcade 92 in Grapevine is more than an arcade—it’s your launchpad for fun in the heart of North Texas.