Ignite Gaming Lounge: Where Passion for Gaming Ignites Innovation in Skokie, IL

Who knew a childhood love of gaming could turn into a successful one-of-a-kind entertainment business? Well, that’s the case for Sam Oanta. As a teenager, the avid gamer, along with his brothers, would invite friends over to play in their living room (turned game room), which sparked the beginnings of what is now known as Ignite Gaming Lounge.

Staying Ahead of the Curve: Ignite Gaming Lounge’s Commitment to Innovation in Gaming Technologies

With an entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for gaming, Sam and his siblings initially established an internet café that offered gaming services, PC repair and printing facilities. Years later, Ignite Gaming Lounge has evolved into a sprawling 18,000-sq.-ft. facility, combining cutting-edge technology with a welcoming environment for friends and families to enjoy. Alongside PC gaming, Xbox, console booths and VR experiences, the lounge hosts competitive esports events, allowing serious gamers to showcase their skills and participate in competitions. By fostering a competitive environment, Ignite supports the growth of esports locally and encourages players to strive for excellence.

Sam and his brothers’ visionary approach has enabled them to transform Ignite into a hub for esports enthusiasts, where they can engage with like-minded individuals and elevate their gaming prowess. Not only can visitors immerse themselves in an unparalleled social gaming experience, they can also aspire to be rock stars. Ignite provides Rock Band booths, allowing guests to unleash their inner musicians. The lounge’s dedication is to staying ahead of the curve which ensures that visitors can enjoy the latest gaming technologies in a modern and comfortable setting.

Enhancing the Gaming Experience with Exceptional Food and Beverages

No gaming experience is complete without satisfying food and drinks. To enhance the overall experience, Ignite also offers an exceptional food and beverage program, including craft cocktails and delectable chef-inspired dishes. While onsite, we spoke to a repeat patron who described Ignite as “a place where gaming meets entertainment and epicurean delight.” The food and beverage director Les Reed crafted a menu combining eyecatching presentations with delicious flavors. While treating our host Nate Reinhart to an assortment of incredible tastings, Reed explained that his creations “are not only Instagrammable but also ‘crushable’ too,” ensuring guests have a memorable gastronomic experience. Ignite’s food and beverage program is designed with gamers in mind, too, offering table service that allows guests to refuel without interrupting their gameplay. It seamlessly integrates dining and gaming, making Ignite the ideal destination for fun.

Moreover, Ignite provides a spacious event area for community gatherings, private celebrations and corporate functions. To diversify their entertainment lineup even further, they recently added a 35-game arcade. From humble beginnings to a state-of-the-art gaming lounge, Ignite fuels the passion of gaming enthusiasts while providing a memorable and immersive social experience, solidifying its position as a premier gaming lounge in Skokie, Ill.

Excerpt adapted from Barry Zelickson’s special report for RePlay Magazine.