Atlanta, GA – A beloved staple of Atlanta’s nightlife scene is saying goodbye to its longtime home. Joystick Gamebar, the self-described “nerdy dive bar” known for classic arcade games, pinball machines, craft cocktails, and smash burgers, will close its doors at 427 Edgewood Ave. SE on Sunday, July 12.
The announcement comes after nearly 14 years of operation on the historic Edgewood Avenue corridor. Co-owner Johnny shared an emotional message with the community on social media, expressing gratitude for the support the venue has received over the years.
Joystick Gamebar Closing Down
“Personally, I love this street,” Johnny wrote. “It has an energy that’s hard to find anywhere else in Atlanta. I’ve met so many incredible people because of it, and it’s honestly hard to imagine saying goodbye.”
He thanked bartenders, door staff, DJs, comics, hosts, vendors, artists, bands, neighbors, and loyal regulars who helped make Joystick a go-to spot for gamers, locals, and visitors alike.
Read our guide on Atlanta restaurants that have closed.
What’s Next for Joystick?
The business is relocating and plans to reopen at a new location in the coming weeks. Owners have not yet revealed the exact address but say details will be shared soon. Some local speculation on social media points to a possible move to East Atlanta Village (EAV), though nothing has been officially confirmed.
Joystick Gamebar has long stood out as a unique hybrid venue — part retro arcade, part cocktail lounge, and part community gathering spot. Patrons could enjoy free or low-cost classic games alongside a full bar, tabletop gaming, live music, comedy nights, and events that drew a diverse crowd of “all nerdoms,” as the bar often put it.
Joystick Gamebar Closing: Community Reaction
The news has prompted an outpouring of memories from Atlanta residents who frequented the spot for first dates, game nights, birthdays, and casual hangouts. Many are planning to stop by in the final days to pay their respects and enjoy one last round of Ms. Pac-Man or a signature burger before the Edgewood chapter closes.
Joystick Gamebar will remain open through July 12 with regular hours. Fans are encouraged to follow the bar’s social media channels for updates on the final week of service and the announcement of the new location.
As one chapter ends on Edgewood, Atlanta’s gaming and nightlife community looks forward to where this “weird little nerd bar” will pop up next.
More from AtlantaFi.com:
