Free Play Lanaken

Here are some pictures of our visit in 2020 to Free Play in Lanaken, Belgium.
This is the largest retro arcade in Belgium. It’s a private collection of pinball machines and arcade games that one collector has opened to the public. As the name suggests, all machines are set to free play, you simply pay an entrance fee.

What sets this place apart from other pinball museums I've visited is the abundance of space. The arcade is located in an industrial area, spanning two very large rooms. It's incredibly spacious, with room to add more machines. The hallways are also wide enough that it never feels small or crowded. Pinball machines are arranged along the outer walls, while arcade machines are grouped in rows in the center. Near the entrance, there are some booths, and throughout the space, you'll find plenty of chairs where you can sit and relax.

The overall presentation is very nice. This isn’t just an empty hall crammed with machines; careful thought has been given to the look and feel of the environment. Free Play features a diverse collection: a mix of both popular titles (like Addams Family) and many lesser-known or rare games. All played beautifully, and technical issues are resolved quickly. Most machines were in excellent condition.

In recent years, pinball machines have been gaining popularity. Barcades are booming in the USA, and it's great to see similar initiatives emerging in Belgium. Public interest is clearly strong.

Pinball and arcade machines.

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If you're looking for pinball parts, then check out Pinballshop.nl (affiliate link).