Round 1

Round 1: Embrace your inner geek

by Louise Dupuy

Round 1 is a multilevel entertainment venue located right opposite Okinawa Convention Centre. It has a multi-storey parking lot and is neighbours with a CoCo’s curry house (this being a huge plus, as CoCo’s is, in my opinion, one of the best things about Okinawa). Basic premise is this: it’s all about fun fun fun. And believe me, it does not disappoint.

First level contains a fairly standard arcade. Lots of different games, claw machines and photo booths. All of it is yen operated, so bring your coin purse with you. Once you exhaust this, you can head up to level 2, which contains more of the same, but also has food, restrooms, games, and the reception for bowling. There’s a full size bowling alley on level 3. Head up to level 6 to register for a membership card (free, but you can earn rewards and discounts, so if you plan on frequenting, this is a great idea). Here, you can pay for either 90 minutes, 3 hours or unlimited time to have full run of the facilities on this level. These include play as much as you like arcade games (shoot em ups, beat em ups, racing games, dance stages, ball games, kids games, you get the picture), dart boards, mini bowling (super, super fun, especially if you’re with another person or group), roller skating rink, tennis, basketball, karaoke, billiards, rodeo bull (I know!) and a small kids ball pit and play area. There’s also food and drinks available, simply use yen to purchase a food/drinks ticket from the machine, show the staff at the food counter, and voila!

Food wise, it’s all pretty much fast food, but it’s reasonably priced and surprisingly filling. It’s handy if you have kids/spouses/friends who don’t want to tear themselves away from the action. As far as drinks go, you can get soft, hot and alcoholic (hahaha), and you can get wristbands for 290 yen at reception for unlimited refill on the soda machine (soft and fizzy drinks only, no booze I’m afraid).

On other levels you can find an area to relax and read, as well as party rooms, perfect for kids birthday parties. Round 1 offers party packages, enquire at one of the reception desks for more details.

There really is something for everyone here. It’s bright, loud, and a lot of fun. This may not sound fun for everyone, but it is very clean and actually not that overbearing on the senses. Even grandma and grandpa would enjoy it, especially if they’re a dab hand at karaoke (or rodeo bulls, you never know). Price wise, it really depends on when you go, what you intend to do, and how long you plan to stay. Week days are quieter, so cheaper, and weekends can be pricey and busy. Happily, it’s 24 hours, so you can choose a time that suits you.