This one’s for all the gamers out there…or anyone curious about gaming hubs as a destination! It’s safe to say that playing video games is one of the most popular hobbies among people of all ages the world over, so it makes sense that many of you might fancy taking a trip that combines your passions with vacation time.
From vibrant gaming capitals to real-world locations that evoke the spirit of beloved video games, there’s a destination on this planet to suit every kind of gamer. Whether you can’t get enough of eSports or if you’re a lover of retro classics, this post is packed with ideas to inspire your next adventure. Get ready to leave your day to day life behind for a while and dive in!
The Gaming Capitals of the World
Whether it’s because of their impact on video game development or because gaming is embedded into their cultural fabric, some cities have earned their status as gaming meccas. These are the destinations to head to if you want to experience everything from stores dedicated to game merchandise to world-class eSports events.
Tokyo, Japan
Let’s start with a bucket-list destination if ever there was one: Tokyo.
The capital of Japan is, quite frankly, a must-visit for anyone with an interest in gaming. In particular, you simply have to make the trip even just to check out the Akihabara district. Often referred to as the Electric Town, it’s packed with retro gaming stores, arcades, and anime-inspired attractions. You can easily spend hours here hunting for rare collectibles, exploring multi-level arcades or diving into VR games and experiences.
More of a generalist? Then you’ll be pleased to know that Tokyo is home to several museums and exhibitions dedicated solely to the history of iconic companies like Nintendo and Sony.
Seoul, South Korea
South Korea’s eSports scene is unmatched, with events like the League of Legends World Championship often hosted in iconic venues like the LoL Park stadium. And Seoul has emerged as a key global hub for eSports and online gaming as a whole. The city’s PC bangs (gaming cafes) are legendary, offering top-tier gaming rigs and a lively social atmosphere.
Los Angeles, USA
Los Angeles has become a centerpiece of gaming culture in the West. It’s home to the annual E3 Expo, which is where industry giants reveal the very latest in gaming innovation. For gamers who love eSports, catching a gaming tournament or live event at the Microsoft Theatre is a must-do. Or, if you’re keen to check out behind the scenes at major studios like Riot Games , you’ll be pleased to know that numerous brands with HQs in the city open their doors for tours and fan events.
Destinations Inspired by Gaming Genres
Alternatively, you might prefer heading off on a holiday to a real-world location inspired by your favourite titles or gaming genres. If so, keep reading for our top suggestions.
Cairo, Egypt
Another dream destination for many a traveller, Cairo is also an inspired choice if you enjoy playing online casino games like slots. While most casino fanatics will head to Vegas or Macau, take inspiration from the well-known online title Riche Wilde and the Book of Dead and head off on adventure that evokes the mystery of Ancient Egypt. Now, we can’t promise that you’ll uncover the eponymous book during your visit, but with the Pyramids of Giza, the enigmatic Sphinx and the ancient tombs of Luxor to discover, you’ll certainly get to experience for yourself the world of this treasure-hunting slot game.
Prague, Czech Republic
For RPG fans, Prague offers a gothic atmosphere reminiscent of games like Vampire: The Masquerade. The city’s cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and shadowy alleys create an otherworldly atmosphere that feels pulled directly from a dark fantasy game. Highlights include the Old Town Square, where you can imagine secret meetings in the shadows of the Astronomical Clock, and the hauntingly beautiful Charles Bridge.
Dubai, UAE
Time for another unusual suggestion! If futuristic dystopian games like Cyberpunk 2077 are more your thing, you’ll find Dubai to be a fascinating destination. The city’s sleek skyline, dominated by towering skyscrapers and illuminated by neon lights, feels like stepping into a high-tech urban map.
Landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and the Museum of the Future embody the kind of cutting-edge architecture often featured in these AAA titles. Meanwhile, the vast sand dunes and rugged terrain bring to mind titles like PUBG and Borderlands.
Kyoto, Japan
Japan is a paradise for gamers, and in Kyoto, you’ll find retro gaming heaven! As the birthplace of Nintendo, the city is a fundamental part of the gaming industry. The rich history of the company is on display at the Nintendo Museum, where you can get an inside look at its iconic franchises and cutting edge innovations—if you can book a ticket, that is, as places have sold out three months in advance!
