Barcadia Norwich: Peter “Nostalgia Nerd” Leigh Clarifies Arcade Bar Closure and Kickstarter Spending

Barcadia Norwich, the retro-themed arcade bar helmed by renowned YouTuber Peter "Nostalgia Nerd" Leigh, has closed its doors, marking the end of a beloved yet challenging venture for the local gaming community.

Established in 2023 after a successful Kickstarter campaign that raised £27,781 from 381 avid supporters, Barcadia aimed to create a unique space where nostalgia-driven arcade gaming combined with signature cocktails and vintage-inspired snacks.

Over its lifespan, the venue became a notable part of Norwich's independent bar scene and the wider UK retro gaming landscape. Addressing recent questions and criticism regarding the closure, Peter Leigh reached out with clarifications about Barcadia’s funding, staff remuneration, and the fulfillment of backer rewards.

"All of the funds raised through Kickstarter, as well as significant additional investment, were directly put into the business, as was always the plan set out on our Kickstarter page.

Running a venue like this is a costly affair," Leigh said, firmly rebutting claims that money was diverted elsewhere. On the topic of staff wages, Leigh confirmed: "Our team was paid for every single shift, right up to the final day of Barcadia's operation." He also addressed concerns from backers waiting on their promised rewards, noting: "Every backer reward was sent out, and we even made a final call last year in case anyone had not yet received theirs.

If anyone still believes they’re missing something, I encourage them to contact me directly." With rumors circulating about comment moderation on Barcadia’s social media, Leigh clarified his actions: "I did block individuals who were repeatedly making personally derogatory remarks towards me and the community across my social channels.

I believe that, just as you wouldn’t entertain abusive guests in your home, the same standards should apply online." Leigh candidly summarized the challenges faced, pointing out that despite significant effort, passion, and investment, Barcadia struggled to achieve long-term viability within its setting.

“By the six-month mark, it was evident that sustaining the venue would be an uphill battle.

Our goal was always to foster a community space over simply turning a profit, but with rising costs and already tight margins in hospitality, it eventually became clear the current format could not continue,” Leigh explained in his final statement to backers.

Despite plans for a revamp and relaunch this year, resource limitations and market conditions forced the difficult decision to close. Reflecting on the journey, Leigh expressed both pride and regret: "I genuinely poured my heart and soul into Barcadia, spending countless hours working behind the bar, organizing events, testing new menus, and connecting with our patrons.

It's been a memorable experience, and I wouldn’t have it any other way." Leigh closed with an appeal for continued support of independent arcades and bars, especially as many similar venues across the UK struggle to survive.

"Unless you’re a very large chain, it’s a tough environment for independent arcade bars right now.

If you have a local business you value, make the effort to show them some love." Barcadia's closure has sparked debate and some dissatisfaction within segments of the retro gaming community, but Leigh affirms his commitment to transparency and promises a comprehensive postmortem of the entire Barcadia project in the near future.

For now, the early legacy of Barcadia stands as both a testament to indie gaming culture and a lesson in the striking challenges of brick-and-mortar venues in today’s hospitality sector.

Kickstarter retro gaming Barcadia Peter 'Nostalgia Nerd' Leigh Norwich Peter Nostalgia Nerd Leigh Time Extension UK