The team behind Holey Moley, Strike Bowling and Archie Brothers is launching a nostalgic new social games concept packed with retro challenges, arcade-style experiences and plenty of 90s references.
The 90s revival is getting a new home at Chadstone, with Funlab set to open Playback96, an immersive social games venue inspired by the decade’s pop culture, music and iconic video stores.
Opening on Thursday, 27th August in The Social Quarter, Playback96 combines physical challenge games with nostalgic set design, transforming a former retail space within the neon blue glow of a retro video rental store complete with VHS tapes, cult movie posters and interactive Easter eggs.
Instead of rows of arcade cabinets, you’ll find nine interactive games that encourage teamwork, quick thinking and a healthy serving of friendly competition.
Nine nostalgic games inspired by the decade
Guests receive a game card at the venue’s “Walkman” Radio Wall before spending an hour tackling nine different physical games.
Among the experiences is Total Recall, a pop culture memory challenge testing players’ knowledge of 90s trivia, while Stop Hammer Time puts reaction speed to the test. Other attractions include Pong Time, which transforms beer pong into an arcade-style game, Line Master, an oversized drawing challenge inspired by the Etch A Sketch, and Ready Player Run, where players dodge swinging pendulums through a candy-coloured obstacle course.
Throughout the venue, visitors will also find interactive nostalgic touches including a playable Nintendo 64 console, Furby displays, dial-up phones and life-sized 90s movie cut-outs.
A soundtrack beyond the greatest hits
The retro theme continues with a soundtrack that goes beyond the usual 90s anthems, featuring artists such as Massive Attack, Outkast, Moby, Portishead and Blur.
The drinks menu also leans into the theme, with signature cocktails such as Screen Burn—Funlab’s take on a Sex on the Beach—served with a playable Pixel Pet, while selected drinks come topped with Troll Doll-inspired straws.
Moreover, keeping the nostalgia going are the venue’s staff, dubbed “Motherfunners”, who are decked out with Walkmans as they serve drinks and guide guests through the experience.
Designed for groups and celebrations
Playback96 will accommodate up to 48 players on its games floor each hour and offer party packages for children, teenagers and adults, alongside corporate and team-building experiences.
Guests can also combine their visit with neighbouring Funlab venues including Holey Moley, Hijinx Hotel and Archie Brothers in Chadstone’s entertainment precinct.
“There’s always room in Melbourne for a new way to have a good time with friends, and that’s exactly what Playback96 delivers,” said Funlab CEO Blaise Witnish. “Playback96 brings back the best bits of the 90s. The games, the music and the great company that made the decade unforgettable in the first place.”
Key details
- What: Playback96
- Where: Level 1, The Social Quarter, Chadstone Shopping Centre
- Opening date: Thursday, 27th August
- Opening hours: Monday–Thursday and Sunday, 9.30am–10pm; Friday and Saturday, 9.30am–11pm
- Age restrictions: Guests under 18 are not permitted after 8pm
- Bookings: Open now
