Rise Brands Announces the Closure of 16-Bit Bar + Arcade in Downtown Columbus

Columbus, OH – March 24, 2025 – After 12 years of bringing nostalgic fun and classic arcade games to downtown Columbus, Rise Brands has made the strategic decision to close the 16-Bit Bar + Arcade location at 4th and Cherry Street. This was the very first 16-Bit location, opening in 2013 and playing a large role in the launch of Rise Brands. 16-Bit was one of the first concepts in the area to combine classic arcade games, social entertainment and craft cocktails, quickly becoming a cornerstone of the downtown scene.

“Closing this location is very bittersweet for us,” said Troy Allen, Founder and CEO. “16-Bit started everything for Rise Brands, and it’s had a huge impact on our rapid growth throughout the years. We’re beyond grateful for the years of support from our guests, our community and the incredible team members who helped make 16-Bit a special place. While this location is closing, 16-Bit’s energy isn’t going anywhere.”

Rise Brands is fully committed to downtown Columbus. The company acquired the building that houses Pins Mechanical Co. on 4th Street and will continue to invest in the property, including exploring opportunities to integrate 16-Bit into Pins as they’ve done in other markets.

Central Ohio guests can still get their fill of the free, classic arcade games at Pins Mechanical Co. at Bridge Park in Dublin and Easton Town Center. There's also a 16-Bit Bar + Arcade location in Indianapolis, IN.

As a thank you to everyone who made 16-Bit a legend, Rise Brands is hosting a ‘Final Round’ farewell party on March 28 from 4 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. Everyone is invited to join for one last round of fun before the doors close with tons of giveaways and serious drink specials all night long. The last day of operation will be March 30. All team members will remain with Rise Brands and not be impacted by this closure.

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Rise Brands

Rise Brands is a brand development firm that specializes in creating immersive consumer experiences. Each brand embodies creative, authentic fun as the owners and operators of 16-Bit Bar + Arcade, Pins Mechanical Company, No Soliciting, and The Bogey Inn. Rise owns eleven Pins, 16-Bit Bar + Arcades across the Midwest and South, and two No Soliciting locations. Established in 2013, Rise continues to create, develop, and grow brands from its home office in Columbus, Ohio. Visit www.risebrands.com for more information.

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