Velocity Esports, a new esports and entertainment company, is launching its first location this spring at Newport on the Levee. Opening in The Gallery in the former GameWorks space on March 31, Velocity will feature a premier esports lounge, arcade games and prizes, a social gaming lounge, live and online tournaments, live entertainment and a full-service restaurant and bar serving craft beverages with elevated casual dining.
Recently established, Velocity features state-of-the-art technology, professional gaming equipment, more than 100 esports titles and a vast selection of arcade games and prizes. Its 23,000-square-foot location at the Levee will be operated by Tom Heim, market general manager.
Reinventing the space
“Created by gaming and hospitality veterans who are focused on creating compelling gamer and guest experiences, Velocity will be unlike anything else in the market,” Heim said. “It’s been a pleasure helping develop this brand and I can’t wait to open the doors and start creating new memories soon. At Velocity, we’re committed to bringing next-level gaming and next-level fun to our guests.”
To reinvent the space, Velocity’s ownership has invested $400,000 in enhancements ranging from a new esports lounge room, a renovated bar with a refreshed design and video wall, updated lighting and a social gaming lounge featuring billiards, foosball, shuffleboard, pinball and giant versions of tabletop game classics. The social gaming lounge will also have an area for live music. Enhancements also include a reimagined dining space and remodeled bathrooms.
Upon entry, the restaurant will be the first thing guests experience. Velocity Esports Bar & Grill will serve a fresh take on modern American and Mexican classics, featuring elevated casual dining, along with craft cocktails and mocktails. In addition, the event space for parties and other events has been moved from the back of the facility to the front, making people the focal point for passersby.
A young and fast-growing industry
“We are so excited to continue expanding our ever-growing lineup of entertainment options here at the Levee, and to serve as the original home of Velocity Esports,” said Gabriella Burch, general manager of Newport on the Levee.
“The esports industry is young and one of the fastest-growing in the world and we’re confident the community will be just as thrilled as we are to see this concept emerge locally.” Positioned as an entertainment venue and playground for adult gamers, Velocity is targeted for millennials and Gen Z. Gamers of all abilities and ages, including amateurs and competitive individuals, are welcome and invited to explore the new concept both in person and online. The hours of operation will vary between summer and winter (Labor Day to Cinco de Mayo and vice versa),” Burch said.