Activate Games Review: A Thrilling Mix of Tech, Teamwork, and Physical Challenges

If you’re looking for an interactive, high-energy gaming experience, Activate Games is a must-try. In this Activate Games review, we take a deep dive into what makes it stand out—specifically through the eyes of Augie Wolding, a 14-year-old high school freshman at the time of his visit. Based on his firsthand experience at the Charlotte, NC, location, this review covers everything from the games and atmosphere to the pros and cons of this action-packed entertainment venue.

Activate Games is a global franchise, with nearly 60 locations across the U.S. and Canada, offers a unique blend of technology, teamwork, and physical challenges. If you’re looking for something that mixes fun gaming with physical activity, Activate Games is the place to check out. It’s not your usual theme park, arcade or laser tag center. Instead, it’s a mix of escape rooms, laser tag, and high-tech games that get you moving. Whether you’re hanging out with friends, having a family day, or looking for a fun team-building event, Activate Games has something for everyone.

I recently visited the Charlotte location and had an awesome time. It was one of the most unique experiences I’ve had in a while. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect, plus some pros and cons to help you decide if it’s the right place for you.
What Is Activate Games?

Activate Games isn’t your average entertainment spot. It combines physical activity, teamwork, and technology in a way that’s both exciting and challenging. You walk into a themed room, and you’re given a set of tasks that require both brainpower and movement. You’ll be running, jumping, dodging, and solving problems under a time limit. It’s fast-paced, and you’ve got to think on your feet.

Each game room is packed with cool technology that tracks your movements and scores your performance. Some games focus on your speed and precision, while others get you moving and working with others to complete the challenges. No matter what, you’re always in for a high-energy experience.

Experience the thrill of victory at Activate Games.

Activate Games in Charlotte: First Impressions

From the moment I walked into the Charlotte location, I was impressed. The place looks sleek and modern, with plenty of space so you’re not bumping into other players. The staff greeted us warmly, explained everything clearly, and helped us get started. They were friendly and really seemed to enjoy what they were doing.

The venue was clean and organized, and it had that perfect balance between excitement and comfort. They’ve clearly put a lot of thought into the layout and how everything flows.

One thing that really stood out was the technology. The rooms were equipped with top-notch sensors and interactive displays, which made the games feel even more immersive. This wasn’t just another basic entertainment center—it was something different.

The competition can be intense at Activate Games.

The Games: Fun and Challenging for Everyone

Activate Games has a variety of game rooms, each offering different challenges. Some require teamwork, while others test your individual skills. Here are a few of the games I tried:
• The Laser Maze: This was a fun and physical challenge. You have to move through a maze of laser beams without setting off alarms. It gets harder as you progress, and you’re crawling under beams and climbing over obstacles to avoid being caught. It’s a great teamwork game and definitely tests your agility.
• The Arena: This is a full-on physical game. Players are in a big room with obstacles, and the goal is to tag opponents while avoiding being tagged yourself. It’s like a futuristic game of tag, and it’s all about strategy and speed. I loved how competitive and active it was.
• Escape Room-Style Challenges: Unlike the usual escape rooms, these challenges get you moving. Instead of staying in one room solving puzzles, you’re racing against the clock to complete tasks that may involve running from station to station. It was fast-paced, dynamic, and way more active than traditional escape rooms.
• Memory Games and Interactive Puzzles: If you’re into mental challenges, these games were a great mix of brainpower and light physical activity. You might need to memorize patterns or sequences that pop up on a screen and then act on them while moving around. They’re not as intense, but still a lot of fun.

What I liked most about the games at Activate Games is that they’re challenging but not frustrating. You can always improve, and the instant feedback helps you track your progress.

Compete in 1-on-1 games against the computer, or challenge your friends.

The Atmosphere: Energetic and Social

Activate Games has a high-energy vibe. The bright lights, pumped-up music, and the buzz of excitement from other players really pull you in. It’s the kind of place where everyone’s engaged and having fun. The social side is great, too. The games encourage teamwork, and I had a blast hanging out with my friends while we worked together and competed against each other. It’s a perfect spot for group activities, whether you’re with family or co-workers.

The staff were great, too. They made sure we understood the rules and gave us plenty of encouragement throughout. We never felt rushed, and they kept the energy up so we could really enjoy the experience.

Other Locations: A Growing Trend

Activate Games has expanded to other cities across the U.S., including spots in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. This makes it easy to enjoy the experience no matter where you are. Whether you're traveling for work or just on vacation, having a location nearby could be a fun way to mix up your usual routine.

Lights, music, a time, and lots of action keep the games fun and engaging!

Things to Consider

There are a few things to keep in mind when planning your visit:
• Book Ahead: The venue can get busy, especially on weekends or during peak hours. To avoid long waits, book your session in advance.
• Busy Times: Since Activate Games is so popular, expect some rooms to fill up quickly during busy hours. If you're in a large group, you may have to wait a bit.
• Physical Demands: Some games can be physically intense, so make sure your group is comfortable with active movement. There are games for all fitness levels, but some will require more agility.

Summary Review of Activate Games

Activate Games in Charlotte is a unique, action-packed experience that combines gaming, physical activity, and teamwork in a way you won’t find at typical entertainment centers. Whether you're looking for a fun night out with friends, a family-friendly adventure, or a team-building event, it’s a great place to check out. The technology, the games, and the overall vibe make it stand out from other options. If you're in Charlotte—or anywhere Activate Games is located—it's definitely worth a visit.