GameWorks

Think you have what it takes to compete on Indianapolis' 500 Speedway? Gameworks Las Vegas challenges you to discover your inner rally champion. Indy500: The Simulation was a major games title released in 1989, based upon the perilous layout of Indiana's most famous championship track. With sharp veering turns and cloudless skies, Indy500 promises a battle for control and the necessity for instantaneous judgement – even if you opt for the customizable Penske-Chevrolet as your default car. One of the most popular rally games of the early 90's, Indy500 is just one of the throwbacks to vintage arcade gaming you'll find among the nostalgic experiences at Gameworks.

Situated within a prime piece of real estate known as Showcase Mall, right next door to the decadent MGM Grand Hotel, the 55,000 square foot Gameworks attraction is the result of a mega-venture collaboration between Sega Enterprises and Universal Studios. Launched on the back of successful ventures opened in Seattle and Ontario, CA, the Las Vegas arm of Gameworks included the integration of the Initial-D simulator, a mountain drift racing game brought to life with underfloor jolts and superior sound quality, akin to a cinema experience. Gameworks Las Vegas remains the only gaming facility in the U.S, within which Initial-D has been introduced.

Nostalgic rally games are just a few of the arcade surprises to be found within Gameworks. One section, almost entirely dedicated to platform games of the late 70's and 80's includes firm family favorites such as PacMan, Mario Kart and Air Hockey (the table version). Fast forward a few light years for technology and you'll be met with the “new wave” generation of arcade gems, including Nintendo-born Super Mario Brothers and Sonic The Hedgehog. One might consider Gameworks to be a fully functioning arcade museum, such is the plethora of era-defining games to be found. There's definitely a stark contrast between the rally racers of old, and market-leading car cum shoot em' up concepts aka Grand Theft Auto. Need For Speed: Hot Pursuit is also a far cry from the first “Fast and Furious” release!

Games run the gamut of genres at Gameworks, including a selection of virtual dance stations and even a super-sized ten pin bowling alley. If you're over the age of 21, you can also get in on the action at “The Loft”, an area entirely dedicated to poker and real money games, with a funky Glacier Bar serving cocktails and beer. Top off your visit with a bite to eat at Gameworks Grill, a culinary outlet catering for the a-typical arcade lovers appetite with pizza, southern fried chicken and “finger-lickin' ribs” to go!