Totton Arcade Revives Classic Gaming in Southampton with Retro Hits Like Donkey Kong and Street Fighter II

Totton Arcade Brings Nostalgic Gaming to Southampton with Donkey Kong, Street Fighter II, and More The classic arcade scene may have faded from its peak in the 1980s and 1990s, but the spirit of retro gaming is still alive in the UK, thanks to passionate entrepreneurs determined to keep the experience accessible and affordable.

Totton Arcade, based in the British city of Southampton, is the latest independent arcade to open its doors, inviting gamers of all ages to rediscover the timeless appeal of legendary titles like Donkey Kong, Street Fighter II, and Mario Kart DX. Totton Arcade was founded by Sasikumar Arumugam and Yi Li in late 2023, inspired by the renewed popularity of arcade venues in other major UK cities such as Leeds and Manchester.

The founders designed the arcade to evoke the nostalgia of classic gaming while ensuring family-friendly pricing.

In an interview with the Daily Echo, Yi Li shared, “We made a conscious choice to focus on older games, many spanning five to thirty years in age.

The response has been fantastic—people still love playing these classics, and by showcasing them, we're able to keep our admission prices low.

That makes Totton Arcade one of the most accessible entertainment options in southern England, especially during school breaks.” The venue boasts more than 35 vintage machines and arcade cabinets, featuring enduring favorites like Nintendo’s Donkey Kong, Capcom’s Final Fight and Street Fighter II, and SEGA’s Mario Kart DX.

Retro enthusiasts will also find a Neo Geo cabinet, as well as traditional pinball machines, air hockey, and a basketball shootout game, rounding out the old-school arcade experience. A major highlight of the arcade’s pricing model is its wallet-friendly structure.

For just £8.99, visitors can enjoy 50 minutes of unlimited play across all machines.

Yi Li explained the approach, stating, "We wanted guests—especially families—not to worry about constantly buying tokens or adding credits.

Our pay-once, play-unlimited model means everyone can enjoy their visit without restrictions." Totton Arcade also demonstrates a strong commitment to inclusivity.

A reduced entry fee of £5.99 is available for children with special educational needs (SEN) and their carers, reflecting the founders’ dedication to creating a welcoming, adaptable venue.

As Li affirmed, “We aimed to establish a space where everyone feels safe and accepted.

Finding entertainment that understands SEN requirements can be challenging, so inclusivity is a cornerstone of Totton Arcade’s ethos.” While digital platforms like the Nintendo Switch and eShop continue dominating home gaming, venues like Totton Arcade are preserving the communal, tactile thrill of arcade culture.

For gamers seeking a nostalgic blast from the past and affordable, inclusive entertainment, Totton Arcade marks a compelling new destination on the UK’s gaming map. For further details including booking and available games, visit Totton Arcade’s official website.

Mario Kart Donkey Kong Mario arcade Street Fighter Street Fighter II Kart