Since opening in 1999,[3] Ground Kontrol has undergone several changes. The arcade was originally created and opened by Betty Farrier, and Kneel Cohn of the bands Warshow Angels[4] and The Dead Stars on Hollywood.[5] In March 2003, it came under the new ownership of Timewarp Incorporated. In September 2004, Ground Kontrol moved to a new location[6]
In December 2010, Ground Kontrol moved to a temporary location to accommodate a remodel. During renovation, a kitchen and new seating were added, the restrooms were moved, and the decor took on a Tron-esque vibe.[7] On December 11, 2011, Ground Kontrol announced that it was now a full-service bar.[8]
In April 2017, Ground Kontrol expanded into the former location of Backspace, renovating it to include a new bar area, several video screens and a connecting hallway. The newer expanded area was built with a WarGames-esque vibe. A further renovation of the entrance on NW Couch St. was completed in June 2018.[9]
Events
In June 2004, a world record high score competition was held jointly at Ground Kontrol; Aftershock RetroGames Arcade in Madison, Wisconsin; and the Houston Area Arcade Group Expo in Houston, Texas. Twin Galaxies maintained the results of the competitions for world record consideration.[10][11]
Portland Pinbrawl, an annual pinball tournament, is held at Ground Kontrol.[12]
In 2010, Ground Kontrol was the winner of three arcades competing in Stride gum's "Save the Arcades 2" contest. The owners used the $25,000 prize to assist in funding a full remodeling of the arcade and to buy more games.[13]
Recognition
In July, 2010, Sunset Magazine included Ground Kontrol in the "Best of Portland: Hotels, Dining, and Attractions 2010" publication calling it the "Old Hot Spot" in Portland's Chinatown.[14] The San Francisco Chronicle listed Ground Kontrol as one of "Five places to revisit the '80s".[15] Ground Control won in the "Best Game Bar" category of Willamette Week's "Best of Portland Readers' Poll 2020".[16]
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