John Fernandes and his family are bringing an old favorite back to the Capital City. High Voltage Arcade has officially opened inside the Capital Mall, where Aladdin's Castle previously entertained gamers of all ages.
Fernandes, who also owns Pretzel Maker inside the Capital Mall, said he has heard a lot of memories associated with the arcade. After some research, he decided opening the arcade would be a good investment, for him as a business owner, and for the people of Jefferson City.
The arcade opened three weeks ago after mall goers asked Fernandes to open the doors and let them play, even if the business wasn't completely ready to go.
Aladdin's Castle has been closed for four years, and Fernandes has made a lot of changes to the space to fit a more modern style. The business has new carpeting, paint and lighting. The redemption prize area also saw a face lift. Games such as ski ball, Mortal Kombat, Mrs. Pac-Man and air hockey neighbor racing and shooting games. The business purchased and brought in all the games it offers, and is expecting more games, like basketball, in the coming weeks.
High Voltage Arcade is an all-token based business instead of using coins, and has a high-ticket prize area for the serious gamers. A seating area with tables and chairs is set up for parties and an ice cream vending machine will soon be operable. Fernandes also hopes to bring crowds to the arcade with big events such as ski ball tournaments.
The Columbia resident runs the arcade with the help of his wife Kathleen, who also manages Pretzel Maker, and two of his three teenagers. With a few others, the new business has seven employees helping out.
"I want to get involved in the community," Fernandes said, noting he plans to do charity events and give back to local organizations.
Already, High Voltage Arcade has seen a lot of customers, several of whom are grateful for the new opening, sharing stories of their younger years inside the arcade.
"We get people every day saying they're so glad it's back and they get to bring their kids here," the new owner said.
With a lot of changes coming to the Capital Mall, Fernandes is excited for what's in store. They are keeping the regular mall hours, open 10 a.m. to
9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays.