Arcade Odyssey is more than just an arcade, it is an authentic Japanese gaming center where friends and family can come together to compete, connect and celebrate gaming culture
Tucked away near Kendall on 12045 SW 117th Ave, there lies a hidden gem for all gamers. Arcade Odyssey is a time capsule of authentic Japanese gaming where nostalgia thrives.
At first glance, Arcade Odyssey may look like any other arcade. As guests step inside, the difference becomes clear. Guests are greeted by glowing rows of imported Japanese arcade machines — from rhythm games to fighting games rarely seen outside Japan — as well as games like Tekken and Samurai Showdown. Customers can purchase a Flurbo card that works identically to buying tickets, costing a dollar for 30 Flurbos in one of the three machines located inside. Flurbos can be used for any retro, pinball and simulation games.
Unlike most commercial arcades, which are often centered around tickets and prizes, this arcade is devoted to authentically representing Japanese culture. Opening everyday afternoon and closing until 12-2 a.m., they feature a collection of rare, imported arcade machines. At Arcade Odyssey, the reward is the experience.
“My favorite must be Taiko no Tatsujin, the Japanese drum game,” junior and customer Milos Martinez said. “You can’t really find it anywhere else here, and it’s the kind of game that instantly makes you smile and is a great time, even if you’ve never played it before.”
For others, it is about the competitive spirit. Some customers can be found spending hours attempting to master all of the racing games. The space naturally encourages laughter, competition and connection beyond just playing games.
“I’m obsessed with Initial D,” customer Carlos Rodriguez said. “It feels basically almost like the real deal. The drifting, the upgrades, it feels like you’re really driving and drifting around Japan.”
Not every guest walks in with the goal of being a high scorer; some visit to enjoy a fun time alongside friends while playing video games.
“Arcade Odyssey is more than just an arcade, it’s a community space where people of all ages can come together, play and relive the joy of arcade gaming,” Arcade Odyssey manager Lis Lomicar said.
Since opening, the arcade has hosted countless events designed to bring people together, from anime-themed nights and cosplay contests to tournaments that regularly draw some of the most skilled players in Florida. These gatherings transform the arcade into more than just a gaming venue, becoming a reunion venue and cultural hub for the community.
Competitive events such as Street Fighter, Dance Dance Revolution and Tekken tournaments attract veteran players hoping to prove their skills, while casual fans gather to enjoy the spectacle. The variety of events hosted has allowed Arcade Odyssey to carve out a unique identity in Miami’s gaming scene.
At its heart, the arcade is more than just a business: it is a piece of gaming history. With rare machines that cannot be found elsewhere in Miami, it serves as a gallery of gaming culture and a vibrant space where guests can socialize. Its continued success show that, despite being in an age dominated by online gaming, the charm of arcades remains the same.
