A new arcade, The Dragon’s Dojo, has recently opened in Burlington, Vermont, aiming to provide a social alternative for locals beyond traditional venues like bars and gyms. Located on College Street, the arcade specializes in rhythm games, inviting players to engage their coordination and precision while enjoying music.
Owner Jaret Williams, who opened the establishment in late October 2023 after receiving an inheritance, envisions the arcade as a welcoming space that promotes inclusivity. Originally from New Jersey, Williams graduated from the University of Vermont in 2021 with degrees in art history and classical civilization. Their inspiration for The Dragon’s Dojo stems from Game Underground in Waltham, Massachusetts, a venue known for fostering a diverse community of gamers.
Williams noted a particularly memorable experience at Game Underground on Valentine’s Day last year, stating, “I don’t think there was a single cisgendered person in the room. It was just groups and groups of other trans people.” As a trans individual, Williams hopes The Dragon’s Dojo will replicate this sense of belonging, providing a space where gamers can gather, play, and feel at home.
Embracing Rhythm Games and Community
Rhythm games blend the lively atmosphere found in bars with the physical activity associated with gyms. The genre has its origins in Japan, with Family Trainer: Aerobics Studio being the first recorded rhythm game in 1987, according to Guinness World Records. Williams expressed their enthusiasm for introducing these games to a wider audience, saying, “Sadly, they’ve been mostly limited to Japan, but we brought them over.”
While many may be familiar with titles like Guitar Hero or Dance Dance Revolution, Williams emphasized that there is a broader range of engaging rhythm games available. The most popular offering at The Dragon’s Dojo is Wacca, which features a circular neon layout and a 360-degree touch screen. Williams attributes the game’s success to its “intuitiveness,” making it accessible for new players.
According to an analysis by IBISWorld, Vermont hosts 13 businesses in the Arcade, Food & Entertainment Complexes Industry. However, none focus exclusively on rhythm games, positioning The Dragon’s Dojo as a unique destination for enthusiasts. “There’s nowhere else to play most of these games for hundreds of miles,” Williams stated, highlighting the arcade’s distinctive appeal.
Fostering Connections Through Gaming
Beyond providing entertainment, The Dragon’s Dojo aims to create a community hub for gamers to meet and interact in person. Williams remarked on the importance of offering alternative spaces for socializing, stating, “It’s neat to have more options for people, rather than like, ‘You like games? Stay at home.’ No, there’s options.”
Customer Sophie Carbin shared her experience discovering The Dragon’s Dojo through friends in the gaming and queer communities. Initially not an avid rhythm gamer, Carbin appreciates the arcade’s focus on gaming rather than drinking. “I think it’s nice that it also brings together people of shared interests. People are here for the games and not just kind of as a night out with friends,” she explained.
With its unique offerings and inclusive atmosphere, The Dragon’s Dojo represents a significant addition to Burlington’s social landscape, allowing individuals to connect, compete, and celebrate their shared passion for rhythm games.
