Recall the iconic Canadian mall arcade chain, Wizard's Castle, that defined the retro gaming experience for a generation of players.
Wizard's Castle emerged as Canada's largest chain of amusement arcades, operating from the mid-1970s until 2006. Its first location opened in the Scarborough Town Centre food court, beginning as a pinball arcade before expanding significantly by 1979. The chain was exclusive to Canada and owned by Janda Products/New Way Sales, based in Rexdale, a Toronto suburb. With over 60 locations across the country, it filled a niche in Canadian malls where American arcade chains did not establish a presence.
These arcades were a common feature in shopping centers during the 1980s and 1990s, offering a variety of coin-operated video games, pinball machines, and air hockey tables. They often featured fantasy-themed interiors, complete with wall murals and neon lighting, drawing in generations of players. Games such as Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, and later Mortal Kombat 2 were central to the experience. The majority of Wizard's Castle locations closed by 2006, coinciding with the end of Janda/New Way Sales operations.
Here is one question from the Wizard's Castle Arcades: Canada's Retro Gaming Hubs quiz. Expand the card to reveal the correct answer — then host a live game to play all 20.
Correct Answer: 1990s
Play solo now, or host a room to play the full Wizard's Castle Arcades: Canada's Retro Gaming Hubs quiz competitively with friends or your class — fastest finger wins, scores update live on every screen.
▶ Play NowThis trivia quiz covers key facts, actors, characters, and milestones including: