My friend Ralph Lucius is starting his own retro arcade in the community of South Haven and for him it is literally his life coming full circle. Coming soon to the former Sav-A-Lot Grocery building is Rocket Arcade…featuring retro arcade games, pinball and amusements.
Ralph, who has been engaged in marketing in some form or other most of his adult life both with Mid-West Family Broadcasting and with JohnsonRauhoff in St. Joe, admits that many family members, friends and others have asked him one basic question: “Why start a retro arcade?” He says the simple answer might be – “Why not?” Bar arcades are popping up in every city, pinball is trending in popularity nationwide and even Walmart is selling “repops” of the original games.
For Ralph, however, it’s all a bit more personal. He says, “It’s about an awesomely wonderful childhood with a father who made this possible and a best friend who would be part of this journey had his life not been taken too soon. His motto: ‘Every day an adventure, every meal a feast.'”
Ralph says, “Growing up during the classic arcade culture, my idols were Evel Knievel and the Six Million Dollar Man. My days were spent free-range cruisin’ our bikes or going on grand Dungeons & Dragons adventures in the basement. But most of all, we were original vintage ‘arcade rats’ … it was impossible for us to pass an arcade without playing or find a game on location that we didn’t feed quarters.”
Ralph and his buddy took daily bike rides to the little game room at the mini-golf to play Defender, became lost for hours at the big mall arcades like Aladdin’s Castle and loved the campgrounds that gave them Space Mission pinball and Stunt Cycle.
So his real answer to – “Why start a retro arcade?” Quite simply, “It brings my life full-circle. Back to a time of great joy when it was simpler to be a kid. To know that my arcade can bring a nostalgic smile to someone’s face or a great experience for the next generation of gamers – it makes me happy. Happy = Rocket Arcade.”
Mr. Lucius says it’s just the beginning and there’s going to be so much more to tell and he encourages anyone interested to register for news updates on his website which can be reached through the link below and by following him on social media:
Rocket Arcade of South Haven is an adventure Ralph started a few months ago, with plans to create a retro arcade and retail shop featuring video games, pinball machines and coin-op amusements from the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s. His plans are to be open next month.
Ralph says, “There’s going to be an awesome collection of games along with classic sodas and snacks to start. Plus, I’m also working on a unique collection of t-shirts, artwork and gifts for retail sales in time for Christmas.”
So some ask, are you crazy? He replies, “Maybe…but they say you need to be passionate about what you do and arcades have always been a part of my life. Whether my ‘Rocket’ ride takes me to a wonderful new world or comes crashing back to earth…at least I know that I will be enjoying the ride.”
Rocket Arcade is designed for families looking for fun, safe and affordable entertainment. Unlike many larger arcades and family fun centers, Rocket Arcade will focus on the social gaming experience, not games of chance or cheap prize ticket redemption schemes. Ralph says, “Rocket Arcade is a new interactive retail experience where people of all ages will enjoy playing, learning and shopping a unique collection of retro arcade games, gifts, art and novelties.”
He promises you will be able to learn tips, tricks and fun-filled facts about all your favorite games, while you snack on classic sodas, ice cream, pizza, popcorn and more. Eventually the plan is for you to be able to shop a unique selection of classic arcade t-shirts, games, artwork and gifts, hopefully by Christmas.
You will also be able to book the Rocket Arcade for birthdays, fundraisers and special events.
Plans are to have about 75 games on the floor at any given time, and parents will love this: “Most games will be All-Day FREE play for a single admission price.”
Ralph encourages everyone to sign-up at RocketArcade.com and follow on Facebook for his grand opening announcements.
The former Sav-a-Lot grocery store in South Haven is being renovated by Randy Locker, and Ralph is leasing 4,500 sq ft. There are 60 parking spaces out front and the arcade enjoys walking access to downtown. Rocket Arcade will be housed at 237 Broadway in South Haven.
Stay tuned for more!
