In an age where more people are content to sit in isolation and wait for Gamefly to deliver the latest edition of Resident Evil or Mario Kart, it’s comforting to know that there still remain loyal fans for old-school pinball and arcade games—and the social interaction that accompanies them. For the Northwest Pinball and Gameroom Show (held in the Northwest Rooms), thousands will revel in the opportunity to play more than 250 arcade games and pinball machines. According to the festival’s Dan Halligan, choices will vary from “‘60s museum-worthy pieces to the newer games and classic arcade favorites…games they probably haven’t seen in 10 or 20 years and have fond memories of playing at their local pizza joint, 7-Eleven, or arcade.” In addition to boundless, quarter-free gaming, gamers will have the opportunity to meet game designers, attend the first-ever Galaxies Hall of Fame Awards Ceremony, and watch erstwhile Donkey Kong world record holder Steve Weibe (subject of the much revered King of Kong documentary) attempt to reclaim his crown. HANNAH LEVIN

Fri., June 12, noon-midnight; Sat., June 13, 10-midnight; Sun., June 14, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., 2009