How to Throw a Birthday Party at a Gaming Café

A gaming café is one of the easiest party venues there is: the entertainment is built in, it works for mixed groups, and there's no clean-up at home. Here's how to plan one that everyone enjoys.

1. Count heads and pick stations

Decide how many people will play at once. PS5s with party games suit mixed groups because two to four people can share a screen. PCs suit groups that already play the same competitive game. Book them together so the group sits side by side.

2. Choose games everyone can play

• EA FC / FIFA or other sports games for quick rounds.
• Party and racing games for non-gamers.
• A shared multiplayer game for the regular gamers.

3. Run a mini tournament

A small knockout with a silly prize gives the party a shape. Keep matches short. Need team names? Try the team name generator.

4. Sort food and timing

Ask whether the café allows outside cake and food. Book an extra 30 minutes as buffer — parties always run over.

5. Book early

Weekend evenings fill up. Compare gaming cafés near you and book the stations for your group in one go on HangOn.