I have a reputation for arriving early for flights. I consistently get to the airport more than two hours before a domestic trip, even during off-peak times. Because of my arrival anxiety, I have a lot of downtime at airports which I can (and often do) spend boozing at an overpriced “Irish pub” or relaxing in a lounge. But on my latest trip through the liminal space that is Los Angeles International Airport, I was not drinking (dry January) and there was no lounge (bullshit). But there was a Gameway.
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Gameways are “the world’s first premium video game lounge located in airports” according to the company website, and there are two at LAX. Their slogan is “why wait when you can game?” and honestly, it’s a good one. On my last trip I chatted with an employee at the Terminal 3 location, but this time around I’m at Terminal 6, and I decide I’m going to game, god dammit. I have Priority Pass, a card with an annual membership that affords you access to airport lounges, so I can enjoy 30 minutes of Gameway gaming for free. Normally, it’ll cost you $16 for 30 minutes of game time (not even enough to squeeze in a round of Overwatch comp), $26 for up to an hour, and $46 for the entire day.
What’s it like playing video games in an airport lounge? Well, let me tell you.
Image: Gameway
As I wait in line to show my Priority Pass, a father and his three primary-school-age children are arguing over prices. A hulking Master Chief looms over me. “Do you have FIFA?” the youngest son asks as the other two argue, his eyes barely clearing the crotch-high counter. A few people crane their necks into the futuristic space, curious about the source of the cool-toned lighting and schoolyard din. Perturbed or confused by whatever a Gameway is, they quickly wheel their suitcases out of the doorway.
The father and family settle on a session (half an hour, but with three kids and the necessary snacks, his total comes out to somewhere around $150) and are directed to their gaming stations. Then, it’s my turn. “You get a free drink and snack, but the energy drinks cost more,” the Gameway employee tells me. There’s a glowing fridge in the front filled with sugary concoctions, flanked by bags of chips and candy on either side. I snag a Topo Chico sparkling water (there’s no alcohol like there is at the other location, but I’m not partaking anyway) and a two-pack of Reese’s peanut butter cups.
“Can I sign into my own account?” I ask as I unwrap a peanut butter cup, determined to feed my Overwatch 2 competitive mode addiction.