The Quad in front of the Liberal Arts Building recently transformed into a time machine, transporting students back to the vibrant era of the 1980s with TAO’s Retrowave event. The pastel colors splashed across the exterior of the arcade setup were an inviting prelude to the pulsating world that awaited inside—a world where neon lights and geometric patterns ruled the day. Bright, colorful geometric designs danced across the floor, casting an otherworldly glow that beckoned students to lose themselves in the games of yesteryear.
Having skipped lunch in my haste to experience the event, my first stop was the concession stand. It was a retro dream come true, lined with all the expected arcade treats—hotdogs, perfectly buttered popcorn, and a selection of sodas that seemed to wink at me from their frosty containers. I quickly grabbed a hotdog, savoring the simple delight of biting into something so quintessentially linked to childhood memories of arcade visits. With hunger satisfied, I set my sights on the change machines, eager to gather the coins that would fuel my journey through the neon labyrinth. The clink of quarters hitting the metal tray was a nostalgic sound that set the tone for the event.
It was then that I spotted a familiar face—Mandie Romano, a fellow staffer from The Beaver Pride, was deep in a dance-off on one of the arcade’s most popular machines. Her opponent? None other than DAM President Thomas Evans, who was equally determined to secure victory. Their playful rivalry was a spectacle, drawing a crowd of onlookers who cheered with every move. But Thomas wasn’t just about busting moves. After an intense dance-off, he made his way to the baseball arcade game, where he showcased his skills by racking up a stunning amount of points. His focus and competitive spirit were on full display, earning him admiration from those watching.
Beyond the games, TAO had thoughtfully arranged billiard-themed tables throughout the arcade, offering a space for students to take a breather and connect with friends. These tables became the hub of conversation, where groups gathered to swap stories of their favorite 80s movies, music, and, of course, arcade memories. Meanwhile, at the entryway, others could be seen grooving to the beats that filled the air, their faces lit up by the flashing lights of the arcade. Conversations buzzed with excitement as students were already planning their next outing to Flynn’s, the local arcade. In every sense, TAO’s Retrowave event was a triumph. It wasn’t just an event; it was an experience—a vibrant, nostalgic celebration that brought the 80s roaring back to life, if only for one afternoon. TAO managed to capture the essence of a decade defined by its bold colors, infectious music, and love of all things fun. For those who attended, it was an afternoon that won’t soon be forgotten, and for TAO, it was a grand slam, a high score that set the bar for future events.