Interview with Anthony Makhlouf, Owner of Loginn Electronic Games Arcade in Dubai
In the wake of the global pandemic, Anthony and his wife had an idea that would not only change their lives but also cater to the needs of youth, teens, kids, and adults alike. Harnessing the power of technology, Anthony established Loginn, a gaming haven away from the hustle and bustle of Dubai. Loginn offers a unique space to people of all ages who love gaming and want to learn new skills. This gaming shop has not only redefined the way we play but also challenged conventional perceptions about the impact of gaming on our lives.
Delve into the world of gaming through the eyes of Anthony Makhlouf, owner of Loginn Electronic Games Arcade, who has transformed a simple idea into a multifaceted hub of entertainment and growth.
Loginn is an innovative response to the increased time spent indoors and behind screens during the global pandemic. They saw a need for a space where people could come together, shout, have fun, and compete, regardless of their age. This newfound need for social interaction and recreation led to the birth of their ingenious idea, Loginn.
“In this era of high-tech home computers, there's still something special about coming together to play, shout, and compete in the same place,”
says Anthony.
His mission through Loginn was to provide a welcoming environment where people of all ages could step out of their homes and into a vibrant gaming community. Today, this age-inclusive gaming arcade is not just a shop, it is a community, a family, and a space where people of all ages can come together to game, socialize, and grow.
Loginn has been designed in a simple way to create an atmosphere that is very relaxing. Understanding the diverse preferences of gamers, Anthony decided to create an environment that accommodates all. He says,
“Our shop is designed to be like a home away from home for our customers. It is a place for families and friends to bond over their shared love of gaming.”
In crafting the arcade layout, Anthony, drawing from his background in interior design, opted for separated gaming stations rather than a crowded setup. Individual gaming stations are created with glass dividers in between to give the gamers their privacy. The gaming tables are specifically designed for gamers and the space is generously laid out to provide freedom of movement and foster a relaxed atmosphere.
The heart of this establishment is its cutting-edge gaming infrastructure. Anthony and his team have spared no expense in creating a top-tier gaming experience. It is equipped with cutting-edge computer systems designed exclusively for an unparalleled gaming experience. Specialized gaming tables and top-of-the-line PCs, including Core i7 and Core i9 12th generation processors with 3070 and 3080 VGA RTX are used for the gaming setup. Their commitment to staying at the forefront of technology ensures that gamers always have access to the best equipment.
Whether you prefer a PlayStation or want to enjoy a game of pool, Loginn has it all. For a more immersive experience, you can book the VIP room which is equipped with advanced computers and a state-of-the-art streaming station. In this room, groups of up to six people can play together. You can also live stream your game using Twitch or any other platform.
Anthony recognizes the vast and expanding landscape of the gaming industry. Backing his venture with research and statistics, he appreciates the benefits of gaming, especially for children. As a father of two kids himself, he has observed the profound impact of gaming on their development. He argues that contrary to what most parents believe, gaming helps children in developing their skills. He emphasizes the synchronization between hand-eye coordination and mental faculties while gaming. He also believes gaming fosters critical thinking, fast decision-making, and an interconnected conscious and unconscious mind.
To educate parents and raise awareness about the educational potential of gaming, Loginn has launched a program targeting parents aged 40 to 50. The program aims to help parents understand the cognitive and skill development benefits of gaming, encouraging them to view gaming as a valuable tool in their children's development. According to him, gaming provides a unique opportunity for kids to learn and develop crucial problem-solving skills. He says,
“Gaming is more than entertainment; it's a tool for skill development and learning. It enhances focus, critical thinking, and strategic skills. I'm against the idea of limiting a child's gaming time. When done right, gaming can boost brain development and teach valuable life skills.”
Anthony emphasizes that these are valuable skills, especially for children around the ages of 7 or 8 when they are still shaping their personalities. And for parents, gaming can be a window into their children's minds, allowing them to better support and understand their kids.
With a passion for innovation, Anthony believes that there is immense potential within the gaming industry. He and his team consistently brainstorm new product development and community expansion ideas. Going beyond the aspect of entertainment, they actively engage in educational projects and organize in-house tournaments.
Reminiscing the era of LAN gaming, Anthony says,
“LAN gaming is a cherished memory for many, and we hope to bring back that sense of company and competition.”
He recalls the era of gaming where friends would gather in lounges to enjoy thrilling gaming sessions together. Anthony wants to bring back LAN gaming, but in a newer and smaller way that fits with today's eSports. The enthusiasm among both the audience and the gaming community serves as a driving force for Anthony and his team to make their gaming hub as thrilling and welcoming as those old LAN gaming sessions.
By establishing Loginn, Anthony has made gaming a communal, educational, and unforgettable experience for people of all ages.