DIXON, CA (MPG) - Local moms, Jené Owens and Jamie Myers unveiled their latest passion project: Joystick Gaming Lounge, a family-run arcade in their hometown of Dixon.

The arcade, located at 420 Gateway Drive, Suite C, will provide a variety of entertainment for all ages to enjoy, including claw machines, air hockey, Mario Kart and much more.

“Phase one includes the arcade, birthday/event room, PC gaming area, board games and a Mini-Bar featuring unique and elevated single-serve snacks, candies and beverages,” Owens said. “When the Owens and Myers started this venture, we had plans for a kitchen, cereal bar, milkshakes, pizza, nachos, etc. However, in the two years it took us to find an appropriate building space, our buildout costs nearly doubled, so we decided to open in phases.”

While the arcade may be in its first phase, Owens and Myers have devoted hours of planning to ensure that Joystick is distinct from other facilities. The main attraction is the bright and exciting arcade machines, which provide hours of entertainment for kids and adults alike, but the owners wanted to consider those with quieter pursuits as well.

“As we worked on our business plan, we thought about what we loved and disliked about other similar businesses. For example, I hated going to birthday parties at arcades because they were too loud and dirty, and the carpet smelled awful.” Owens said with a laugh. “So, we decided to create a quieter area for board games, puzzles, and just relaxing where parents can know their kids are safe.”

 Alongside the electronic and traditional games, a private party room is available at prices that are competitive and vary by package, with options that include cupcakes, decorations, free game time and Joystick merchandise.

Before settling into business ownership, Owens and Myers were teachers at Neighborhood and Vacaville Christian Schools as well as Dixon Montessori Charter School.

“In 2022, Jené and I were looking for a new adventure,” Myers explained. “We met with our husbands to discuss a variety of ideas. In the end, we felt that Dixon really needed a place for friends and families to gather, build relationships, and make memories.”

Owens and Myers then spent the next two years brainstorming, funding, and developing the idea that became Joystick Gaming Lounge. The two moms already have big plans for the business, aiming to work with and support their local community.

“We are excited to partner with a few philanthropic groups in Dixon, including the collective youth group, Innerstate 180, which serves youth 6-12th grade. We are also looking forward to a party with Team Dixon, a non-profit organization established to enrich the lives of special needs children and their families,” Owens said. “Our families want Joystick to be a career for us, yes, but also a light and blessing to our community.”

The arcade promises a clean, affordable, and friendly place for people of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy. Accommodations for those with special needs will be provided upon request to ensure that everyone is included.

Joystick is slated for a soft open after press time, with a grand opening event soon to follow.

“We are looking forward to a time when we can add a kitchen/cafe, but for now we are so happy to start with what is in front of us. It’s really shaping into something bigger and more wonderful than we’d imagined. We are so excited to see the community come and enjoy what we’ve created for them!”

For more information, visit https://joystickdixon.com/.