LSU Introduces New Arcade Room, Arcadia, for Student Relaxation
As academic stressors ramp up, students at LSU now have a dedicated space to unwind and decompress: Arcadia, a new arcade room located on the second floor of the LSU Student Union.
Previously occupied by various campus offices, including an art gallery and the Student Success One Stop Shop, this space was revitalized after the Office of Retention & Student Success vacated it. Auxiliary Services Assistant Vice Chancellor Margot Caroll mentioned that over the past several months, they sought student feedback to determine how best to use the space.
After gauging interest, an arcade was chosen as the ideal solution—aiming to provide a fun and inviting environment for students. Caroll emphasized that the goal was to give the space back to students, creating a balance between academic demands and relaxation.
The design of Arcadia features low lighting and comfortable lounge furniture, adorned with neon accents and LSU-themed decor, including a purple couch and tiger-striped rug. The arcade offers a range of games, from classic arcade machines like Pac-Man to social favorites like Uno and foosball.
Freshman Methus Dixon expressed the need for such a space, stating, “In college, we have a lot going on, a lot of stress. So we need somewhere we can go to wind down.”
Senior Cameron Young highlighted the social aspect, noting, “It helps most people who don’t socialize… The game is another way for people to open up to each other.”
Arcadia is designed not just as a playground for students but as a place for them to connect, socialize, and take a break from their academic responsibilities.
