The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

Located in the heart of Marakez District 5, Ground Control is a playground for adults that combines an arcade, a bowling alley, and a go-to spot for anyone seeking a fun, retro photoshoot. This venue offers a well-rounded experience for everyone! Let’s dive into the Ground Control experience.

Lights, Lights, and More Lights

As soon as you step inside, you’re greeted with a low-light, high-neon aesthetic. Buckle up, lower your camera’s brightness, and prepare for a night full of aesthetic videos and iconic photos. With an energy-pulsating playlist in the background, the atmosphere creates a vibrant, yet not overwhelming, experience. The lighting is perfectly balanced—bright enough to create excitement but not too harsh. The music complements the sounds of people laughing and the soft clatter of bowling pins, making it an enjoyable environment without being loud or disturbing.

Game Experience

Ground Control offers a variety of games that combine classic favourites like air hockey and darts with modern arcade games featuring 7D effects and VR. The arcade experience blends the best of both worlds, from nostalgic hits to cutting-edge entertainment.

The axe-throwing game is a standout, adding a unique twist to the usual gaming lineup. Whether you’re a millennial seeking the nostalgia of old-school arcades or a Gen Z looking for a VR adventure or race cars that flip with the screen, Ground Control has you covered. Games are designed for solo players and pairs, making them perfect for dates or small groups. While it’s great for couples or groups of three, larger friend groups may find it less appealing and may not enjoy it as much.

Grab A Bite! 

After all the fun, you’ll definitely want to grab a bite. 101 B, located inside Ground Control, offers an American diner experience that fits perfectly with the venue’s vibe. Get ready for some Instagram-worthy shots while enjoying delicious American diner staples. The chicken pops with chipotle honey sauce are exceptional, striking the perfect balance between spicy and sweet. Their in-house Coca Cola drink also matches the vibe, offering a refreshing complement to the experience. 

And for those with a sweet tooth, Dolato will elevate your experience with a mouthwatering ice cream selection of their best flavours.

Myth vs. Reality

Ground Control has been rumoured to be an upscale or expensive arcade, but in reality, the value for money is excellent. For a couple or a group of three, you can enjoy all the games with a card charge between EGP 800-1000 and benefit from a 10% discount on food, while the card itself costs just EGP 40.

Ground Control is an experience we wholeheartedly recommend. Everything came together perfectly, from the ambience that oozes fun without being overwhelming to the variety of games that cater to both Gen Z and millennials to the excellent service and helpful staff. We were able to disconnect and enjoy hours of uninterrupted fun in a space that feels like the ultimate adult playground.