Unfortunately, Gen Con, one of the largest gaming conventions in North America, left Milwaukee for Indianapolis in 2003. The event brought thousands of geeks and gamers to the city, unrowdy and ready to spend money.

I worked at the Safe House for five years – I stood at the door and asked the password – and Gen Con was our busiest time of year. Although not big drinkers, the crowd was easy to manage and good tippers.

The Safe House continues to be a destination for sci-fi and gaming enthusiasts (among others, of course), but now, the James Bond-themed bar will have a little competition for the geek demographic.

A new bar, 42 Lounge, will open at the end of the month at 326 E. Mason St. Owners Lynn and Anthony Nilles say they are waiting on furniture delivery.

The lounge will specialize in "all things geek" and offer playable gaming consoles, tournaments, barcraft, cosplay events, wifi for handheld play and a selection of gaming-themed cocktails including The Domfather (Gears of War cocktail), Red Potion (The Legend of Zelda cocktail), Sonic Screwdriver (Dr. Who cocktail) and Jack Ryan's Plasmids (Bioshock shots).

"Come down to play a few games, chat about 'Lord of the Rings,' debate Star Trek vs. Star Wars, catch up on Dr. Who, pre-game for conventions, post-game for Ren Faire or just relax after a long day at work," says Nilles.

Stay tuned to OnMilwaukee.com for more information about 42 Lounge after it opens. No password required to get in.