If you’re considering studying video games at Screen and Film School Brighton, get ready for an adventure like no other…
Brighton is a city bursting with creativity, and for gamers, it’s a paradise. We’ve compiled this guide to the city’s hotspots, where you can unwind, get your game on, stock up on gear, and dive into the vibrant gaming community. Whether you’re on team console or team tabletop, or just looking to relax with friends after class, the city has something for every type of games enthusiast.
Bars and Cafés for Gamers
Brighton offers an array of bars and cafés designed with gamers in mind. Head to The World’s End, Brighton’s favourite arcade-themed pub, where you can enjoy craft beers, VR, remote-control car racing and board games, just across from our London Road campus.
If you prefer a venue with a sea view, Loading Bar combines cocktails with classic consoles, including Xbox One, PS4, N64, and Nintendo Switch, alongside Tekken Tag Arcade and Street Fighter Pinball.
For daytime gamers, 1UP Café has you covered, from classic arcades to modern consoles, at its Western Road location. They also host bi-weekly Smash Bros. tournaments, Dungeons & Dragons every other Wednesday night, and run a jam-packed calendar of other community events, including Chess Club, Pokémon Card Trade & Play nights, and quiz nights!
Where to play in Brighton
Want to put your skills to the test? Brighton is packed with exciting gaming experiences. Based out of The Brunswick pub in Hove, Bewilder Box challenges your problem-solving skills with quality, quirky escape game experiences that are, quite simply, unforgettable. With two on-site escape rooms to choose from, as well as four online games that provide you with the escape room experience from the comfort of your home, it’s no wonder the team behind Bewilder Box have been winning awards.
If tabletop gaming is more up your street, Dice Saloon is an absolute haven. You can book a table, booth or RPG room in their gaming café to play your own game, or any of the ones in their extensive library. Dice Saloon also has an impressive list of regular events, as well as a retail shop which you can browse to your heart’s content.
Gaming Shops
If you’re seeking to stock up on gaming gear, Brighton has you covered. Warhammer is perfect for enthusiasts to explore a vast array of miniatures, paints, and accessories, and get involved in activities.
For the latest video games, consoles, and accessories, there is, of course, GAME. If you’re a fan of vintage games and consoles, the Video Games Retro Market hosts events across the year at Brighton Racecourse that will transport you back to the golden age of gaming.
Gaming Events
Brighton hosts some great gaming events throughout the year. Brighton Comic Con and Gaming Festival next takes place at Brighton Racecourse on 11th November 2023. It’s the perfect place for anime and comic fans to meet, shop, and enjoy a huge range of activities and events. The intriguingly named Strange Games Festival takes place each year over the August bank holiday weekend, where over 500 happy gamers come together for a camping experience that includes board games, RPGs, social deduction and more at a local Sussex campsite.
For aspiring game developers, each year the city hosts the Develop: Brighton conference, which provides an opportunity to learn from industry experts and gain insights into the world of video game creation. The three-day event is the perfect place for the games development industry to network, share ideas, get up-to-date with the latest dev tools and tech, and get hands-on with all the games on display.
Brighton more than just a place to study; it’s a hub of creativity and excitement for gamers. Whether you’re interested in playing, creating, or just exploring the vibrant gaming scene, this city has something to offer for every future games artist, developer or designer at Screen and Film School.
Are you ready to make a scene?
