When the owner of The Game Room, Jim Myren, heard that there was an opening for an arcade in the Kalispell Center Mall back in November, he jumped at the opportunity. Little did he know that the arcade’s success would arise not only from the video games and pinball machines, but from an activity usually associated with adults — pool. “I didn’t know how popular it would be,” said Myren. “The table we’re using right now is borrowed because we didn’t want to spend $3,000 for a new table if it wasn’t going to be popular.” The Game Room started holding pool tournaments every Wednesday night soon after it opened because of student demand, and has drawn between 10 to 15 people every time, according to Myren. “We had a lot of the kids that wanted to get a tournament going,” said Myren. “It gives them a chance to see who is the best.” The tournament yields anywhere from $30 to $40 for winners, $15 to $20 for second place and several dollars in tokens for third place. Even with the money involved, players say the environment stays friendly. “It’s a combination of competitive and friendly competition,” said senior Mike Myren. “There’s a lot of really good players. I haven’t won yet but it’s definitely worth (playing) if you win.” For those skilled enough to win consistently, the tournaments can be a lucrative business. “It’s just like winning another game but there is money involved,” said senior Ben Root. “It makes you feel like you’re better than other people, but it’s not true.” Root began playing pool when he was 14 years old and used to play every weekend for money. “I (played pool) every weekend at the Desperado’s Dance Hall,” said Root. For some who have a long lasting affinity for pool, The Game Room provides them with a place to play. “I’ve always liked pool,” said junior Jake Moberly. “When I found out that they opened another arcade in the Mall I decided to check it out.” According to Myren, an arcade should provide entertainment for family and friends as well as being a place for people to meet. Said Myren: “It keeps kids off the streets and gives them something to do besides wandering around the mall. It also gives them somewhere to meet.” |
