The History of Pinball at Arcade 92

Before the bright lights, frantic flipper action, and satisfying sound of a well-timed jackpot, pinball had a surprisingly humble

beginning. The roots of pinball date back to the 18th century with a French game called Bagatelle. Bagatelle involved players using a cue to shoot balls up a slanted table filled with pins, with the goal of landing the balls into scoring holes. Fast forward to the 1930s, and the mechanical evolution began: coin-operated machines, spring-loaded plungers, and electric bumpers all entered the scene.

In 1931, a game called Baffle Ball became one of the first commercially successful pinball machines. It had no flippers and was more like a tabletop game, but its popularity exploded during the Great Depression due to its affordability and entertainment value. By the 1940s, flippers were introduced with the release of Humpty Dumpty by Gottlieb, changing the game forever by giving players control over the ball’s movement.

But pinball wasn't always welcomed with open arms. From the 1940s to the 1970s, pinball was banned in several major U.S. cities—including New York and Los Angeles—due to its association with gambling. It wasn’t until 1976 that Roger Sharpe, a pinball expert, famously demonstrated to a skeptical courtroom that pinball was indeed a game of skill, not luck. His performance helped lift the ban and ushered in a golden era of arcade pinball.

Fun fact: the pinball wizard persona was immortalized by The Who’s rock opera Tommy in 1969. It helped catapult pinball into pop culture, and machines based on movies, rock bands, and TV shows began to dominate arcades.

Today, pinball is both a nostalgic throwback and a modern gaming obsession. From analog classics to high-tech LED masterpieces, the world of pinball continues to thrive—and nowhere is that more evident than at Arcade 92.

Arcade 92: A Hub for Retro Fun, Food, and Games

If you’re searching for the ultimate arcade near me, look no further than Arcade 92, a standout destination in the DFW area blending nostalgia, modern flair, and unbeatable vibes. With two locations in Grapevine and Flower Mound, this arcade bar is more than just a collection of flashing lights and joysticks—it’s a full experience.

Whether you're craving a delicious meal or a competitive game night, Arcade 92 delivers. As a full-service restaurant, the menu features mouthwatering dishes, elevated pub-style favorites, and inventive cocktails served from a stylish cocktail bar. Whether you're grabbing dinner with friends or planning a memorable date night, the food and drink at Arcade 92 hit the high score every time.

But let’s talk games. From iconic classics like Pac-Man to cutting-edge modern video games, there’s something for everyone. Rows of vintage arcade games, immersive pinball machines, and multiplayer setups create an unbeatable mix of nostalgia and new-school cool. It’s perfect for family activities near me and also checks the box for kids activities near me with an atmosphere that’s both family-friendly and fun for adults.

Speaking of adults, Arcade 92 also shines as an adult arcade—a spot where grown-up gamers can unwind, sip a craft cocktail, and battle it out on the flippers or joysticks. It’s also a hotspot for corporate team building events, private parties, and group hangouts.

No matter your age or skill level, Arcade 92 offers a fresh take on the retro arcade bar experience. With a mix of competitive fun, tasty bites, and unbeatable ambiance, it’s your go-to arcade for any night out—or day in—with friends, family, or coworkers.

The next time you're mapping out a fun day in the DFW area, make sure Arcade 92 is on your itinerary. Conveniently located in Grapevine, this retro-inspired arcade and bar is perfectly situated near some of the most exciting and family-friendly attractions in North Texas.

Just minutes away from DFW Airport, Arcade 92 is a great spot to unwind after a flight or to sneak in one last adventure before heading home. If you're visiting the area, you’ll love its proximity to iconic destinations like the sprawling Grapevine Mills mall, where shopping, dining, and entertainment collide under one massive roof.

Traveling with family? Arcade 92 is located near Great Wolf Lodge, one of the top indoor water parks in Texas, and Gaylord Texan, a luxurious resort offering stunning seasonal displays and events all year round. After a day splashing in the water or exploring the Gaylord’s festive wonderland, wind down with dinner, drinks, and games at Arcade 92.

Art and imagination lovers will appreciate how close Arcade 92 is to Meow Wolf Grapevine, the immersive, mind-bending art installation that’s become a must-see for creatives and explorers alike. Arcade 92 is the perfect complement to Meow Wolf’s trippy visuals—one place to feed your imagination, the other to challenge your reflexes.

Thanks to its central location, Arcade 92 is easy to reach for locals and visitors alike. Whether you're on a staycation in Flower Mound, attending an event at the Gaylord, or simply looking for a fun evening out, Arcade 92 brings the energy, the flavor, and the fun.

It’s not just an arcade—it’s a destination surrounded by the very best of Grapevine. Come for the pinball, stay for the vibe, and make memories that level up your whole day.