Retro gaming night in Melbourne offers Tetris, nostalgia

Chris Bonanno | FLORIDA TODAY

Though many lined up this Thanksgiving Weekend to buy the newest and hottest video games, some people opted to take a nostalgic trip back in time on Saturday.

That's because they attended Melbourne Makerspace's Retro Gaming Night on Saturday at the organization's office at 401 N. Wickham Road, Suite 135.

A number of different video games were available to play including Donkey Kong Country, Castevania and others. Additionally, tournaments were held for Ms. Pacman, Oregon Trail and Tetris.

"We have all kinds of things going on," said Tony Bellomo. "(…) We actually have medals for our first, second and third-place winners in each category so those are pretty cool."

"We've seen lots of new faces which is really cool," said Arl Del Rosario, co-founder of Melbourne Makerspace.

Video: Melbourne Makerspace hosts Retro Gaming Night Video: Melbourne Makerspace hosts Retro Gaming Night. By Chris Bonanno, FLORIDA TODAY Posted Nov. 28, 2015

It wasn't just board games either, as some Bellomo added that there were "heavier, more strategic board games" available for people to play including Tesla vs. Edison and Orleans.

"I'm a baby board game player like I'm just getting into my inner nerd, letting it flourish and I found this place on meetup.com and just the first day it was welcoming, they were the nicest people," said Michael Francis of Viera who was playing Tesla vs. Edison and had also played Tetris, Oregon Trail and an old "Virtual Boy" system.

Food and drinks were also provided, including a cookout that featured hamburgers and hot dogs along with an assortment of chips and it sounded like those in attendance were more than happy to take advantage.

"A lot of fun," said Michelle Larue as of West Melbourne who said she played "a lot" of board games. "(…)And I had a bunch of hot dogs."

Melbourne Makerspsace itself was created as a place where people are given tools or instructions in a variety of different realms that range from electronics to arts and crafts and seemingly many things in between. According to Arlo Del Rosario, one of four co-founders, the organization is not-for-profit and all monthly dues go back into rent and things inside.

"We started it because we needed a space where people can just make things or share ideas," said Del Rosario.

"Everyone you meet here is pretty awesome. I had to come back," added Francis.

An Open House is held for interested parties every Monday from 7-9 p.m.

Those interested in more information should visit melbournemakerspace.org.

Contact Bonanno at 321-242-3662, cbonanno@floridatoday.com or follow Chris on Twitter @FTChrisBonanno.