Introducing the World’s First Official F1 Hospitality Venue – F1 Arcade
Get ready, racing enthusiasts! The much-anticipated F1 Arcade is set to revolutionize the gaming landscape in Philadelphia. With a grand opening scheduled for May 29 this year, this state-of-the-art venue promises an unparalleled racing experience combined with premium hospitality tailored for fans of the sport.
What Makes F1 Arcade Unique?
Unlike traditional arcades, F1 Arcade offers a unique blend of cutting-edge technology and sophisticated ambiance. This high-tech racing experience is complemented by premium food, beverages, viewing parties, and other F1-themed events and experiences. The first venue was launched at the end of 2022 in London, quickly gaining popularity following the surge in the sport’s popularity the previous year.
Conceived by Adam Breeden, the man behind Flight Club and Puttshack, F1 Arcade offers a glamorous destination where guests can immerse themselves in the world of Formula 1 all year round. The venue’s cutting-edge technology, high-quality food and beverages, and luxurious setting set it apart in the hospitality sector.
The Philadelphia Venue
Located at 1330 Chestnut Street, the new Philadelphia venue spans an impressive 19,200 square feet and houses 80 racing simulators, a massive 43-foot bar, and a private space for 120 standing guests. This will be the third F1 Arcade venue in the United States, reflecting no compromise on quality or scale.
The Simulator Setups
At the heart of every F1 Arcade venue are its simulators. Each setup costs approximately £40,000 and is manufactured by Vesaro. When pushed to its limits, these simulators provide an experience as close to a real Formula 1 car as possible, with motion simulation, realistic tarmac rumble, and authentic steering wheel controls. A new version of the simulator is on the horizon, making Philadelphia one of the first locations to receive this upgrade.
Specifications and Features
The software powering these simulators is a customized version of rFactor 2, specifically licensed for F1 Arcade. The venue caters to all skill levels with five different game modes, allowing players to choose their difficulty on a race-by-race basis. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or a beginner, there’s something for everyone at F1 Arcade.
Global Expansion
The arrival of F1 Arcade in Philadelphia is part of a global expansion plan following a $130 million investment in July 2022. This strategic move aims to expand the brand into US territories and beyond, with plans for more than 30 locations worldwide by the end of 2027. Future locations are planned in Denver and Atlanta.