Chester County gaming center is modern day arcade

CHESTER COUNTY (WTXF) - Adults who remember the excitement of an old school arcade will appreciate the fun that Levels 13 Gaming Center in Chester County is trying to replicate.

After school or on the weekends, kids and teens can be found in a dimly lit room manning state of the art gaming computers in this new age arcade.

"We come here because we don't have a lot of these games at home, so we come here and it gives us a chance to play them," explained one visitor.

Unlike an old school arcade that featured standup video cabinets for different games, each computer at Level 13 is loaded with all the popular titles. Level 13 opened just a few weeks ago and it's already seen an amazing turnout.

The gaming industry has changed. The top gamers in the world make millions. Venues that hold up to twenty thousand seats are being built just to watch people play. Universities are offering scholarships to compete in e-sports.

"Back when I was growing up video games were a great way to waste time, maybe get a little hand-eye coordination," said owner Kevin Mash. "For these kids there is a reality is that e-sports exist and they can have a future, they can have a profession."

For most, gaming is just a way to unwind after school, but some parents have used Level 13 as an opportunity to bond with their children.

"I like to play the games that he is into so I can keep up with the lingo what they are into," said mother Emily Gardner. "It is easy to relate to my daughter and my son."

Whether it's Pac-Man or Fortnite, Level 13's goal is to build a community and form lasting relationships.

"When the kids come here and play they are getting something social. They are getting something that is an active environment. They are getting something that is validating their skills in the game in their own interests and passions in a way that they can't get at home," said Mash.