5 Gaming Spots In Boston That Will Level You Up
Updated for 2025
Boston’s gaming scene is thriving with spots for every kind of gamer. From indie game festivals to immersive board game cafes, this list will power up your gaming experience. Whether you’re into tabletop adventures, video games, or indie dev meetups, here are five killer gaming spots in and around Beantown to check out!
Explore more niche hobbies with our guide to Boston’s indie record stores.
1. Boston Festival of Indie Games (Boston FIG)
Location: MIT Campus, Cambridge, MA 02139 (specific venue announced on their website)
Details: The Boston Festival of Indie Games (Boston FIG) is an annual celebration of indie game development, typically held at MIT in Cambridge. In 2025, Boston FIG continues to be a family-friendly event showcasing tabletop and digital games by indie creators. Expect a day of gaming, panels, and the Figgie Awards honoring top indie titles. The 2024 event was in-person, and 2025 promises the same great experience—check their website for the exact date and venue. It’s a must-visit for gamers and developers alike, just a quick T ride from Boston!
2. Tavern of Tales Cafe and Bar
Location: 1478 Tremont St, Mission Hill, Boston, MA 02120
Details: Tavern of Tales remains Boston’s only board game cafe and bar in 2025, offering an immersive gaming experience. With over 300 board games, weekly events like Trivia Thursdays (7:30 PM), Magic: The Gathering nights (Wednesdays 5 PM–11 PM, Saturdays 10 AM–4 PM), and Dungeons & Dragons sessions, there’s something for everyone. Rent private soundproof rooms for $10–$14 per person for the first hour, or play in the main cafe with a $15 food and drink minimum. Their menu features signature cocktails and snacks, and the staff helps pick games for all skill levels. No one under 21 is allowed after 7 PM.
3. Boston Indies
Location: Various venues in Boston, MA (details on their website and social media)
Details: Boston Indies is a community for indie game developers, hosting regular meetups in 2025 at venues like game studios and gaming bars across Boston. They also hold a weekly virtual Coffee Hour on Zoom (Fridays, 12:30 PM) via the Boston GameDev Slack, perfect for networking and discussing game design. In-person events often include playtests and talks—check their website or Facebook for schedules. It’s a great spot for aspiring devs and gamers to connect with Boston’s indie scene.
Learn about the neighborhoods hosting these gaming spots in our Boston neighborhoods guide.
4. Game Underground
Location: 355 Moody St, Waltham, MA 02453
Details: Game Underground in Waltham (a short drive from Boston) is a gaming haven in 2025, offering classic consoles (Atari, Nintendo) and modern systems (Xbox, PlayStation). They’re known for arcade machines, including rhythm games like Chunithm, popular among enthusiasts. Host a party with reserved TVs, pizza, and drinks, or join tournaments for games like Super Smash Bros. Open Mon–Thu 2 PM–10 PM, Fri 2 PM–12 AM, Sat 12 PM–12 AM, Sun 12 PM–8 PM. Entry is typically $5–$10 for all-day play, making it a nostalgic spot for gamers of all ages.
5. Knight Moves Board Game Cafe
Location: 1402 Beacon St, Brookline, MA 02446
Details: Knight Moves Board Game Cafe in Brookline is a cozy spot for tabletop gaming in 2025, open Wed–Mon (closed Tuesdays). With a library of classics like Monopoly and strategic games like Settlers of Catan, it’s perfect for beginners and experts. Entry is $10–$15 per person, with espresso drinks and snacks available to keep you fueled. They host weekly game nights and events, fostering a welcoming community for gamers. It’s a great alternative to Tavern of Tales if you’re in the Brookline area, just a short T ride from Boston.
Power Up Your Gaming
From indie festivals to board game havens, these five spots will level up your gaming in Boston. Got a favorite gaming spot we missed? Let us know in the comments!
Discover more local gems with our guide to unique things to do in Boston.
