Gamesmania: Huge 120-system gaming pop-up coming to Leeds Merrion Centre this Easter
From 1970s arcade classics to immersive VR and networked Minecraft, a high-energy gaming hub is taking over an inner-city shopping centre in April.
The Merrion Centre is set to become a paradise for gamers of all generations this April as Gamesmania powers up for a special Easter residency.
Running for only one week, the event will transform a massive unit on the main mall into a vibrant interactive hub featuring over 120 playable systems spanning five decades of history.
The event is designed as an inclusive all-ages experience where families can play side-by-side.
Highlights include classic cabinets and 1970s consoles for a nostalgic trip down memory lane, high-spec LAN setups and fully networked Minecraft PC stations for modern multiplayer gaming and the latest in immersive virtual reality experiences.
To complement the pop-up, there will also be a dedicated retail area selling gaming merchandise, cult-film memorabilia, and handcrafted fantasy items.
Gordon Sinclair of Educraft, the team behind the event, said: “Gamesmania isn’t just about looking back - it’s about celebrating everything gaming has become."
Organisers have also ensured the event is welcoming to everyone; on April 7, the morning session will be autism-friendly, with limited capacity, brighter lighting, and lower volumes.
For the older crowd, a special Adults-Only (18+) Night takes place on April 10 featuring mature titles, LAN shooters, and themed refreshments including craft beers.
When is Gamesmania taking over the Merrion Centre this Easter?
The high-energy gaming hub will be in residence for a strictly limited run during the school holiday, starting on April 4 and running daily until April 11.
Morning sessions start from 10am and run until 12:45pm, while afternoon sessions run from 1:15pm to 4pm.
The 18+ night will take place from 6pm until 10pm on April 10.
How do I get tickets to Gamesmania?
Tickets are now available to buy online through the Gamesmania website; it is highly recommended to book in advance, as sessions have limited capacity to ensure everyone gets a fair turn on the 120 playable systems.
Advance tickets are priced at £8 per person per session, or £24 for a family ticket (subject to a 10% booking fee and a 50p fulfilment charge per order). For those looking to attend the special adults-only evening on Friday, April 10, advance tickets are £12.
If you prefer to decide on the day, there will be limited availability on the door at the Merrion Centre, with standard sessions priced at £10 and the adults-only session at £15.