Reforge Gaming Lounge brings the party with potions, PCs, and persistence

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.

When arcades faded away, Christopher saw an opportunity. The Charleston native's vision? Create a gaming space built "from the viewpoint of a bar out" – combining the communal joy of gaming with modern technology and adult beverages.

Opening Reforge Gaming Lounge wasn't easy. Originally slated for April 2020, the pandemic forced a devastating five-year delay. But persistence paid off when they finally welcomed guests in November 2024 to their Dorchester Road location. The venue now boasts 20 high-end gaming PCs alongside modern and legacy consoles, creating a perfect blend of nostalgia and cutting-edge technology.

What truly distinguishes Reforge is their creative approach to the bar experience. Their signature "potions" – custom cocktails served in potion bottles – draw inspiration from gaming culture with names referencing invisibility, health, and stamina. The infamous Chaos Potion (a potent mix of absinthe, bourbon, and cranberry) is so powerful they limit customers to just one per visit. For special occasions like Star Wars Day, they craft themed drinks like Sith and Jedi cocktails that delight both casual visitors and die-hard gamers.

Beyond commercial success, Reforge has become a community hub. They host the Military Magnets esports team, participate in Charleston Tech Week, and offer private events on Mondays and Tuesdays. Whether you're planning a birthday party, date night, or simply want to experience gaming in a social atmosphere, Reforge delivers an experience you won't find anywhere else in the Lowcountry.

Ready to level up your night out? Visit Reforge Gaming Lounge Wednesday through Sunday at 8484 Dorchester Road in the Kusaw Village Shopping Center, and discover why gamers of all ages are making this Charleston's premier gaming destination.

Support the show

Presenting Sponsor: Charleston Media Solutions

Title Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing Association

Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton,

Produced and edited: RMBO Advertising

Photographer | Co-host: Kelli Morse

Art Director: Taylor Ion

CAMA President: Margaret Stypa
Score by: The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenu
Studio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew Chase

YouTube
Facebook
Instagram