Amanda LimAlthough the typical gamer’s dream weekend involves minimal sunlight and maximum screen time, even the most committed gamers should stretch their legs and touch grass every now and then.
Fortunately, Johor Bahru has come through with a line-up that makes logging off worth it. Take this chance to meet your group chat in real life and explore these 6 spots together!
Also read: Best Things to Do in JB Near The Causeway
Game On Theme Park
Image credit (L-R): Game On Theme Park Official Website
Housed in Toppen Shopping Centre, Game On Theme Park is where digital worlds and physical thrills collide. There are PS5s, Nintendo Switches, arcade machines, and an esports gaming portal. What makes it stand out, though, is the addition of a trampoline park, obstacle course, and interactive play zones that appeal to gamers who love a good challenge.
It’s a great place for groups with mixed interests! You can easily spend hours here bouncing between rounds of your favourite titles and physical games, making it a fun and energetic stop no matter what kind of gamer you are.
Pak Game
Image credit: Loud Speaker Official Facebook
Pak Game offers a fun mix of Nintendo Switch, PS4 gaming, and karaoke, all in one spot! It’s just like home, or maybe even better. You can choose to hang out in shared spaces or book a private room for more comfort (and fewer witnesses to your Just Dance routine).
Private rooms are cosy, air-conditioned, and decked out with playful décor, making them perfect for small groups. Rates from around RM50 (~S$15.25)/hour for a two-person private room!
Impulse Gaming
Image credit: Impulse Gaming Official Website
Impulse Gaming at Mid Valley Southkey is JB’s HQ for all things related to gaming and geek culture. Stocked wall-to-wall with the latest consoles, accessories, and collectibles, it’s a must-stop for anyone serious about their setup.
From Bandai gachapon machines to Pokémon trading cards, Gundam model kits, and limited-edition gaming merch, Impulse is a goldmine for fans of all kinds. It’s the perfect place to upgrade your gear, start a new collection, or just admire the sheer range of gaming culture on display. Come prepared to haul all your merch back across the border!
Supreme Cosmic Bowl
Image credit (L-R): Supreme Cosmic Bowl Official Website
Also located in Mid Valley Southkey, Supreme Cosmic Bowl takes the usual bowling experience up a notch with glow-in-the-dark lanes, blacklight effects, and a high-energy atmosphere.
In addition to bowling, there are electronic dart machines, billiards tables, and a small arcade corner to round out the experience. It’s a vibrant spot that provides a rather unique gaming experience you can’t find elsewhere.
Dystopian Boardgame Café
Image credit (L-R): Dystopian Boardgame Café Official Instagram
Situated in Austin Crest and newly opened in July last year, Dystopians Boardgames Café invites players to “Savour the Joy, Gather ’Round the Table” with a fresh take on board game culture.
Beyond a solid game library, what makes this café stand out are its creative community events, like the recent “Challenge the House” event. This invited guests to battle in-game against gamemasters for prizes. It’s a fun, social space where strategy meets a bit of friendly flair.
Meeples Café
Image credit: Meeples Café Official Facebook
Meeples Café offers a whole different vibe. This Euro-themed board game café in JB Sentral focuses on strategy-heavy titles like Catan, perfect for those who love thinking a few moves ahead. The setting is cosy and café-style, with warm lighting and good coffee. It’s a slower pace, but deeply satisfying for game night purists.
SEM9 Senai
Image credit (L-R): SEM9 Senai Official Website
Though technically at the edge of JB near the airport, SEM9 Senai earns its place on this list as Southeast Asia’s first esports-themed hotel. It’s kitted out with dedicated gaming rooms, sleek setups, and team-style lodging options. Whether you’re travelling with your gaming squad or just want to game into the early hours in total comfort, SEM9 offers a uniquely immersive stay.
Also read: 7 Best Hotels to Stay In on Your Next Johor Bahru (JB) Weekend Getaway
Game start!
Come on, it’s finally time to stand up and stretch. JB’s got all the right side quests and more collectibles than your wallet’s ready for! So assemble your party, charge everything, and make it a weekend worth logging off for.
