The chatter of excited guests, the crash of bowling pins being knocked down and sounds of arcade games humming fill the air–Gamescape by Cinemark officially opened its first location in El Paso, Texas, on Feb. 20.
The venue offers a new all-in-one entertainment location that includes bowling, laser tag, an arcade equipped with a climbing wall and ropes course, a full-service restaurant and bar and the latest movie releases. Already drawing comparisons to its competitors, visitors like 20-year-old Andres Favela say that Gamescape has much more to offer.
“Honestly, I think this place is way better than Dave & Buster’s, it’s got everything like laser tag, wall climbing, bowling– it’s got a movie theater,” Favela said.
For some El Paso residents, Gamescape is a welcome addition to the city’s entertainment scene, as a one-stop shop for a variety of activities. According to 19-year-old Iliana Guevara, Gamescape brings something fresh and fun to El Paso.
“We were so used to little options like the mall and Dave & Buster’s.” Guevara said. “I think it’s cool because if you get bored of maybe the arcade you can go bowling or [play] laser tag.”
Other guests like Evan Orozco, 19, say the variety of activities makes the venue an appealing option for parties and group gatherings.
“It’s pretty cool, there’s a lot of variety and looks like a cool place for a birthday party,” Orozco said.
Gamescape’s arrival in El Paso could have a broader economic impact. As a family entertainment center (FEC), Gamescape provides year-round attractions and reduces the seasonal downturn seen in other venues.
According to Walltopia, the shift in consumer behavior, particularly with younger generations such as Millennials and Gen Z, shows that consumers are more drawn towards experiences that foster social interaction rather than material possessions. Places like Gamescape may find themselves to be a hot commodity around town.
As said by Walltopia, “The broader trend of the ‘experience economy’ has further accelerated the growth of FECs…FECs–with their wide range of attractions–serve as the perfect venue for these shared experiences.”
Beyond its entertainment options, Gamescape’s menu was carefully curated to incorporate regional inspired flavors in addition to the traditional entertainment food items like pizza and burgers. Some region-specific items include beef birria pizza, street corn pizza with cotija cheese, and loaded tamales that include Cinemark Slap Sauce™.
“This is a menu that we put together really strategically,” Public relations manager for Cinemark, Julia McCartha told KVIA. “We also wanted to incorporate a lot of the local flavors as well.”
With its mix of movies, games, activities, and locally inspired food, Gamescape may be setting itself up to be more than just a spring break hotspot–it just might become a go-to entertainment destination for El Pasoans year-round.
Evelyn Palma is the web and copy editor for The Prospector and may be reached at [email protected] and on Instagram @evelynp.media.
