Corvallis, get your joysticks at the ready. Common Fields, located at 451 SW Madison Ave., just launched a brand-new “Back to the Nineties” Retro Arcade downtown.
During the arcade’s grand opening Wednesday, the space buzzed with the sounds of button mashing, 8-bit theme songs, and ‘90s hits like Beck’s “Loser” and Weezer’s “Buddy Holly.” The afternoon crowd was steady but relaxed.
By evening, the arcade was packed wall-to-wall with players hanging by a thread for turns at their favorite machines. Every game was set to free play, and visitors dove into classics such as X-Men, The Simpsons, Mortal Kombat II, Street Fighter II: Champion Edition, Magic Sword, Tetris, Time Crisis 3 as well as a collection of racing and target-practice games.
The launch is happening in two phases. Phase one showcased the majority of the arcade, including retro cabinets, modern and vintage pinball machines and two console stations: an NES and Nintendo 64, both stocked with abundant game libraries. The collection also includes SNES games. More titles will be added regularly.
Phase two, planned for the end of the year, will introduce a dedicated back-room pinball area. For $15, players can enjoy unlimited play all day and come and go as they please with a wristband.
Many of the 30 cabinets are highly sought-after, rare titles, intentionally curated so every machine is a hit. Among them is Bucky O’Hare, an uncommon gem the owner says is the only one in the Pacific Northwest and one of few still in existence.
While no tournaments or themed nights are scheduled yet, the arcade is already encouraging competition by photographing high-score champions and sharing their victories on Instagram. Community and charity events are also part of Common Field’s long-term plans for the arcade.
The arcade is steeped in ‘90s nostalgia. Local muralist Eileen Hinckle transformed the bathroom into a Mario Kart-themed scene. Shelves display Goosebumps novels and collages made of Marvel Comics covers. Retro board games fill the windowsills.
Run by Common Fields, Corvallis’ local community taproom and food truck hub, the arcade reflects their mission to promote sustainability and source local products. Guests can sip local rotating ciders or choose from a variety of all-ages refreshments while they play games. Parking is available nearby. The ‘90s Retro Arcade is open Wednesday through Sunday, noon to 8 p.m., for players of all ages.
