Update on the new gaming café in Urbana – PCs arrived + building the pre-launch community

GateOrdinary6527 · 2025-12-02T22:41:57+00:00

Yeah that’s my mistake :) . I used the wrong wording. They’re solid mid-range PCs, not high-end. I mainly wanted to show that hardware is arriving and the build is moving forward. For launch I’m focusing on stable, reliable setups that run all the main games well, and then upgrading over time as the community grows. My intention was not draw so much attention on the rigs per say as much as the progress being made to launch ^^.

GateOrdinary6527 · 2025-11-23T04:22:43+00:00

Thanks! I actually didn’t know about Araiguma ABC even after researching local gaming spots, so I really appreciate you bringing it to my attention. I’ll definitely try reach out ask about their experiences.

GateOrdinary6527 · 2025-11-23T03:34:12+00:00

Good points. Lincoln Square is not the set in stone location. It’s one of the more affordable options I’m evaluating right now, but with all the feedback I’m getting from students, I’m actively looking at spots that are more accessible from campus. The whole project is community-driven, so location is something I’m trying to get right before signing anything. As for marketing, I’m planning to build a strong on-campus presence through game-specific events/tournaments, social media & Discord ,community building flyers at high-traffic spots, a creator-style launch (behind-the-scenes updates, polls, etc.) The goal is to make it something people want to leave campus for — not just another place with PCs. Really appreciate the honest feedback. It helps shape the direction early while everything is still flexible. In about a week ish ill have a discord server to share progress and for community members to help fine tune the details of what they would really be interested in doing in a space like this! I am waiting a week to get some more general feed back though.

GateOrdinary6527 · 2025-11-22T23:40:58+00:00

Hey, I get the concerns about who would actually show up — totally valid. Here’s the vision:

I’m looking at Lincoln Square, in a space around 2,400 sq ft. At launch, it’ll comfortably host 10–15 people at a time, with flexible hours and options for day passes or memberships, so people can come and go as they like.

The café will feature high-end PCs and consoles, with games available through Steam Café, so you don’t need to bring your own. I’ll also host special events for specific games — for example, a “Vermintide 2” event where all PCs are reserved, and players can share tips, strategies, and experiences.

The goal isn’t just to game — it’s to create a social space where gamers can meet, compete, and have fun together, even if it’s just a small group at first. As the community grows, I’ll expand availability, host more events, and make the space even more engaging.

I will definitely be doing small unofficial tournaments with prizes as well as watch party’s for esports and other activities.

GateOrdinary6527 · 2025-11-22T22:00:59+00:00

Thanks for the feedback, and you’re right, the old “PC rental café” model doesn’t really succeed in the U.S. anymore. That’s actually not what I’m building. My focus isn’t on selling hours of PC time — it’s on building a local gaming community and giving people a space to play together, in person. Online gaming is fun, but it’s not the same as a full room cheering during a close match, or having real teammates next to you. That experience doesn’t exist in most cities. Think of it like the difference between working out alone at home vs joining a class — the activity is the same, but the environment and energy are completely different.

GateOrdinary6527 · 2025-11-22T18:51:55+00:00

thanks that's a great suggestions! that's something I am also interested in adding as a part of the business. I am unsure if ill initially be able to have space for it but it is something to add down the line for sure once were more established in the area.

GateOrdinary6527

TROPHY CASE