Jonathan Gouder has always wanted to run an amusement arcade since he was a kid. Now he is. Arcade Time Machine has opened in Stockton with the grown up Gouder delivering dreams for the current generation of kids.

A new arcade has opened on Stockton High Street bringing to life owner Jonathan Gouder’s childhood dream, while offering visitors the chance to enjoy 40 classic and modern cabinets.

The 4,000 sq ft Arcade Time Machine venue is aimed at customers of all ages, including children, students, and older guests seeking “a nostalgia fix.”

“Ever since I was a kid going to Redcar in the 1980s with my family, I’ve wanted my own arcade,” Gouder told the Northern Echo. “I had a bit of money, decided to follow my dream and see where it goes.”

“I’ve always had an affinity with Stockton. I used to come here and work on Saturdays when I was a kid, so I’ve always known the town centre. They’re really trying to change the high street into more of a leisure destination and that fitted in perfectly with what I wanted to do.”

Despite only being open for a fortnight, Gouder is already planning an expansion, with an additional room to the rear of the premises being developed as an area for retro gaming consoles.

“When you hear three or four kids all playing together and laughing, it reminds me of when I was a kid doing that with my mates. These days everyone is online, but being shoulder to shoulder with your friends, your family or your dad is different. It’s a bonding experience.”