The heart of Bydgoszcz's gaming community is undoubtedly Cybermachina - the city's first pub for gamers, located at the Woolly Market. It is a place that combines the atmosphere of a traditional pub with modern technology. The interior of Cybermachina was designed with gamers in mind - you will find the latest generation of consoles, computers with top titles and a wide selection of board games. Prices are moderate, making this place accessible to both students and more experienced gamers. Cybermachine regularly organizes tournaments and themed events that attract the local gaming community. Interestingly, the venue is part of a nationwide chain that has won recognition in the gaming community for creating a unique atmosphere that combines fun with a passion for games.

If you dream of entering the world of virtual reality, be sure to visit VR World on Dluga Street. This entertainment center specializes in VR experiences and offers state-of-the-art equipment that will transport you to alternative worlds. Prices for VR sessions can be described as average, but the quality of the experience fully compensates for the cost. VR World offers both individual and group sessions, making it the perfect place to meet friends or have an unusual date. You'll find flight simulators, adventure games, horror movies and many other genres. The staff is happy to help beginners, introducing them to the ins and outs of virtual reality.

Also not to be missed is GamersHeaven on Dworcowa Street, a place that stands out from other entertainment centers. It's a space created with more advanced gamers in mind, offering top-of-the-line equipment. GamersHeaven regularly hosts local eSports tournaments, and will be one of the highlights of the upcoming eSports and Video Games Weekend. Prices are slightly higher than at other venues, but the quality of the equipment and professional approach fully justify the difference. It is worth mentioning that GamersHeaven cooperates with local eSports teams, supporting the development of the sport in the region.

Each of these venues has its own unique atmosphere and offerings. Cybermachine attracts a diverse audience and offers the most comprehensive experience combining gaming with a pub atmosphere. VR World specializes in immersive VR experiences that are unavailable at home. GamersHeaven, on the other hand, targets more advanced gamers who appreciate professional equipment and a tournament-like atmosphere. All of these places are united by a passion for gaming and the creation of a space where gamers can share their experiences.

Bydgoszcz also offers a rich selection of stores specializing in games of all kinds. One of the most distinctive places is the 'Kruk' board game center, located in a pavilion between the Tango restaurant and Lidl on Wojska Polskiego Avenue. This store, inconspicuous from the outside, hides a real treasure trove for board game lovers. The history of the place dates back to 2010, when a group of enthusiasts decided to create a space dedicated to board games at a time when this type of entertainment was just beginning to regain popularity in Poland.

'Kruk' stands out from other stores primarily because of its wide assortment - from classic titles to niche productions that are hard to find elsewhere. Prices can be described as average, although promotions and sales are regularly organized. Most importantly, 'Kruk' is not only a store, but also a meeting place. Regular tournaments and game nights are held here, during which you can test new titles before buying them. The staff is made up of true enthusiasts, who are eager to advise beginners and help them choose the right game.

The Pegasus Game Center on Pod Blankami Street, on the other hand, is a true institution for video game lovers in Bydgoszcz. The store has been in business for more than 15 years and during that time has built a reputation as a place where you can find both the latest hits and the classics from years ago. Pegasus specializes in games for all popular platforms - from PCs to consoles to mobile devices. Prices range from cheap second-hand titles to full-price premier releases.

Pegasus is also distinguished by a wide range of accessories for gamers - from basic controllers to advanced peripherals. Interestingly, the store also buys and exchanges used games, a rarity in the age of digital distribution. For collectors, Pegasus offers limited editions of games and gadgets related to popular series. The store's staff is renowned for its extensive knowledge of the gaming industry and is happy to share recommendations.

Comparing the two stores, 'Raven' is definitely the place for lovers of traditional analog gaming, offering not only products, but also a community and space to play together. Pegasus, on the other hand, focuses on digital entertainment, offering a wide selection of video games and accessories. Prices at both locations are comparable, although Pegasus offers both cheaper used titles and more expensive collector's editions. In terms of location, the 'Raven' is a bit out of the way, while Pegasus is located in the heart of the city, making it more accessible to tourists.

It's worth noting that both stores actively participate in the local gaming community, supporting events such as the upcoming Weekend with eSports and Video Games. Special promotions and demonstrations are planned during this event, which will attract both regular customers and those just discovering the world of gaming.

When planning a weekend full of gaming attractions in Bydgoszcz, it is worth arranging a schedule that will allow you to take full advantage of the city's potential. It's best to start with a visit to the Pegasus Game Center, where you can stock up on the latest titles or find classics that will make your evening sessions more enjoyable. The store is located in the historic center of the city, making it possible to combine shopping with a short stroll through Bydgoszcz's picturesque old town. Pegasus often organizes previews and tests of new games, especially on weekends, so check their schedule before visiting.

After shopping, the ideal place for an afternoon of gaming is the 'Raven' board game center. This place has a unique history - it was established on the initiative of local enthusiasts who wanted to create a space for board game lovers at a time when this type of entertainment was just regaining popularity in Poland. Today 'Kruk' is not only a store, but also a place for meetings and tournaments. Particularly on Saturdays, open gaming sessions are organized here, where you can meet other enthusiasts and test new titles. Prices for attending such events are low, and the atmosphere is always friendly to new players.

The evening is best spent at the Cybermachine, which turns into a bustling hub for gamers after dark. The restaurant has an interesting history - it is part of Poland's first pub chain dedicated to gamers, which revolutionized the approach to the social aspect of gaming. Cybermachina regularly hosts video game tournaments, broadcasts of major eSports events and themed parties. The prices of drinks and snacks are moderate, and the atmosphere of the place is conducive to making new friends among people with similar interests.

Start the second day of the weekend with an immersive experience at VR World. This place offers technology that just a few years ago was available only to a few. Virtual reality at VR World includes not only games, but also simulations, educational experiences and artistic projects. Prices for an hour-long session can be described as average, but the experience is worth every penny. Especially recommended are group games, which introduce an element of competition and cooperation.

At the end of the weekend, the ideal place would be GamersHeaven - a center that specializes in a professional approach to eSports. This place is particularly important for the development of the local eSports scene - this is where some of Bydgoszcz's teams train, which later represent the city in national competitions. GamersHeaven offers top-of-the-line equipment, which translates into slightly higher prices, but the quality of the experience fully compensates for this.

Comparing all these places in terms of prices, the most favorable is the 'Raven' board game center, where you can spend several hours playing games for relatively little money. Cybermachine offers average prices for both console and menu use. VR World and GamersHeaven are slightly more expensive, but offer experiences unavailable elsewhere. In terms of location, Pegasus and Cybermachina have the most central locations, making them easily accessible to tourists.

It is worth noting that all of these venues gain special significance in the context of the upcoming eSports and Video Games Weekend, which will take place in December 2024. During this event, these venues will hold special attractions, tournaments and promotions that will attract both local gamers and visitors. This is a great opportunity to experience the Bydgoszcz gaming scene in its full glory and perhaps witness the birth of new Polish eSports talents.