Megabyte Saipan is taking another leading role in the world of gaming by transforming a part of its office space along Beach Road, Garapan into a game haven.
And who better to design the 26-seater MegaZone than gamers themselves?
Managers Jim Tighe and Dan Shilling have been gamers for years and were also coordinators for the recent 2006 Asia Pacific Game Con, the first of its kind to be held on Saipan.
These powerful computers are actually from the Game Con and that was the last time they were used, so they are new,” said Dan. “We decided to create a place specifically for gamers.
MegaZone is the only dedicated gaming center that has 18 PC game computers and consoles, such as Playstation 3 and X-Box360 for up to four players each.
These are high-end, fast computers that can display 3D graphics at 60 frames a second. Players can also go online and play other players from all over the world, as each of the computers has its own product key and is legitimate,” said Dan. “MegaZone is the best gaming experience for novice and advance players.”
Each player at MegaZone has his or her own computer and head set, as well as comfortable swivel chairs.
At the consoles, up to four players can sit in front of two large screens and play X-Box or Playstation3 for $4 an hour per controller.
“Two players can share controllers and still only pay $4 per hour. For the PC game stations, it is $3 per hour,” said Dan.
For convenience, gamers can get a membership card and just swipe it each time they come in to play.
“We have membership cards for each player that they can swipe each time they come in and all they have to do is add credit to their accounts by paying cash or credit card,” Dan said.
Parents can also have a peace of mind by logging on to www.megabytesaipan.com and watch the game room to see if their child is playing games.
MegaZone has four security cameras installed and parents can watch live video online to verify their children’s whereabouts.
“Each membership card also has a sensor, so each time it is swiped, it is logged in that the player is here,” said Dan. “Parents can also use their credit cards for the membership cards so they can keep track of their child’s spending.”
MegaZone will also be ahead of the game by having Shadow Run this summer. It is the world’s first cross-platform game, where computer and console players can put their skills to the test.
“Shadow Run will finally put the debate to rest, who is better computer or console gamers?” smiled Dan.
Only time will tell at MegaZone where gamers can play to their hearts content in a safe and comfortable place and enjoy the islands’ best gaming experience from Monday to Sunday from 9am to 9pm.