Arcade Champion "Short Story"

The Arcade Champion

"Short Stories w/ Coach"

In the 80's and 90's the local mall was a place of wonder and excitement, a realm where dreams seemed to come alive in every corner. And there I was, a mere 12-year-old boy, once again standing before the grand entrance of the arcade, my heart pounding with anticipation as I gazed upon the flashing lights and swirling colors that beamed from within.

My eyes widened as I took in the sight of hundreds of gaming cabinets, each one beckoning me with promises of adventure and mystery. The neon-lit window displayed posters of heroes and villains, enticing prizes, and promises of glory. I stood there, transfixed, absorbing the random smells of colorful carpet and molded plastic as my mind raced with possibilities.

With pockets filled of my hard-earned allowance money, I stepped forward, crossing the threshold into a world unlike any I had ever known. The orchestra of sounds assaulted my senses, filling me with a sense of exhilaration and awe. I approached the nearest cabinet, its screen alive with vibrant animations and pulsating lights. Without hesitation, I plunged into the game, my fingers dancing across the controls as I navigated through the virtual world before me.

Every challenge I faced felt like a battle of epic proportions, every obstacle a formidable foe to be vanquished. I poured my quarters into the machine, determined to conquer it no matter the cost.

As I played, a crowd began to gather behind me, drawn by the spectacle of my gameplay. I could feel their eyes on me, their murmurs of admiration and disbelief fueling my determination.

Sweat beaded on my brow as I fought my way through each level, my focus unwavering despite the mounting pressure. With each passing moment, my score climbed higher and higher, until at last, victory was within my grasp. And then, it happened. With a final, triumphant flourish, I achieved the new high score, my name blazing across the screen in bold letters for all to see. I had done it— I had become an arcade champion, a local legend in the making.

But my triumph did not end there. As I basked in the glow of my victory with a strong sense of pride and satisfaction swelling up within me. I also walked away from the arcade that day with a newfound sense of confidence and accomplishment.

As I rejoined my parents, pockets now empty I walked with my head held high, feeling as if I had indeed saved the world. And in a way, I had — for in that moment, I had proven to myself and to the world that anything was possible if you dared to dream and never gave up.

The only other thing that seemed to matter after that.... my return to the arena!

To Be Continued....