A new concept for games, drinks and bites is coming to the city next year.
The team behind High Score Social has been teasing their new concept coming to 14 W Michigan Avenue. The space will have a plethora of arcade games, along with rooms for private events. Right now, the team is hoping to open the new concept in spring 2027.
The barcade is being debuted by Michael Lloyd, an entrepreneur in the Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti area. Partnering with local business advocate Stewart Beal, the two are working with a growing team of interior designers, architects and esports suppliers to make the project happen.
“High Score Social is a modern entertainment venue combining arcade gaming, redemption games, retro gaming, esports, social gaming attractions, lounge environments, beverage service, memberships, birthday parties, private events, and restaurant partnerships into one immersive destination experience,” Beal said in a statement sent to What Now Detroit.
The setup of the concept is a multi-level entertainment, with the first floor featuring most of the arcade games. The second floor will house the esports area for youth and “collegiate” gaming. At the lower level, a players lounge is being built for watch parties and adult social gaming.
The drink menu has not yet been released, but craft beers and cocktails are to be expected. Lloyd describes the space as an “entertainment-first” concept. He and the team will announce restaurants the business is partnering with closer to the opening.
High Score Social is to open between Kristine Joseph’s antique store and Penny Roll Sushi. The storefront is also across the street from Ma Lou’s Fried Chicken. This is in the center of downtown, and just a short walk from Eastern Michigan University’s main campus.
The team has not yet set up a social media or website for the business.
