Dave & Buster’s — Summer of Games 2013 Review

(Note to Readers: I was invited as a member of the media to try Dave & Busters, along with some friends.  They paid for our food and games, but my opinion remains my own. Our thanks to the Marietta, GA, crew who made us feel so welcome!)

I’ve heard of Dave & Buster’s before, but never checked it out until they started promoting the “Summer of Games” events underway this summer.

I was always under the impression this was kind of like a grown up version of Chuck E. Cheese, but it’s so much better than that.

With a family that can be tough to please (kids ranging from 7 to 18), it can be difficult to find a place to spend an evening that ALL OF US will enjoy.  Dave & Buster’s surprised us.

You’ll find a ton of TV’s to watch sporting events around the bar and restaurant.  That makes the big guy happy.

The food and drinks are delicious.  I tried the new Strawberry Summerita and Miami Ice sno cone (my fav!).  The new “Summer of Games” menu includes Potato Chip-Crusted Chicken.  It’s chicken breaded with crushed potato chips and a rich French onion dip gravy.  I went with the Bistro Steak and Shrimp with Lobster Alfredo.  Wow.  That made me very happy.

The games are pretty awesome, too.  It truly feels like its own little amusement park when you walk into what’s called “The Midway”.  The new additions to the “Summer of Games” include giant-sized versions of well-known mobile games like Temple Run and Cut the Rope. Except with these games, you can win prizes.  There’s also Dream Raiders and Dark Escape 4D. These games made the 18 yr old happy.  The prizes made the 8 yr old beyond happy.

And here’s the bonus:  Dave and Busters offers a ton of ways to make it affordable for all.

They have something called the “Eat, Play, Win Combo” which starts at $16.99.  You can get a great meal, a $10 game card and 100 tickets.  It’s not available after 5pm on Friday or Saturday, but is good all other hours.  You can also get a meal with a $20 game card and 200 tickets for $24.99, which essentially means you’re getting an amazing dinner for less than five bucks. Winner!

There are other deals, too, like half off games on Wednesdays right now.  I’m not sure how long that deal will last, but we were there on a Wednesday out of sheer chance and it was a great surprise to be able to play twice as long for the same amount of money.

Also, as part of the “Summer of Games” promotion, Dave & Buster’s will give guests free play on five of the newest games when they purchase or re-charge a PowerCard, from now through August 25th.

Another bonus: There’s a contest underway where you can create your own video game! It’s called “The Next Big Game Search” and the winner gets free games for life.  It’s sponsored by MTV, VH1 and Comedy Central. Go to this link for more.