NickelWorld, a nostalgic Rockford arcade for nearly 30 years, rebrands as QuarterWorld

By Kevin Haas
Rock River Current
Get our mobile app

Update: Read the latest on the change HERE

ROCKFORD — NickelWorld, a nostalgic arcade that has operated on the city’s North End for nearly three decades, has rebranded itself as QuarterWorld.

The signs on the arcade at 3321 N. Main St. were changed Tuesday to QuarterWorld. The company has updated its social media pages and website, NickelWorld.com.

As the new name implies, the change means the classic arcade and ticket redemption games are now 25 cents to play after the $2.25 admission fee. There are also classic free play games including Pacman, Centipede, Donkey Kong, Joust, Frogger and Galaga.

“QuarterArcade’s concept is to allow customers more entertainment for their dollar,” the company states on its website. “At QuarterArcade, $5 would pay your admission fee ($2.25), and allow plenty of play plus an unlimited number of plays on our FREE games.”

The switch from a nickel to a quarter has been on owner Kim Hachmeister’s mind for at least a year, according to interviews with an arcade trade publication. She told RePlay Magazine in April 2024 that she was considering the change, but trying to hold off as long as possible. Even with the change, she wanted to keep the classic feel of playing with real coins rather than tokens or a card system.

“I might have to change it to ‘QuarterWorld’ someday, but I still won’t want to switch to a card system,” Hachmeister told RePlay Magazine. “I don’t think players feel it’s as fun as using coins. At least that’s what my regulars tell me. They love the physical coinage and the physical tickets they win, so I’m going to keep it the same as long as I can.”

Calls to Hachmeister and QuarterArcade were not returned Tuesday. We’ll provide an update if we hear back. (Update: We spoke with the owner and manager Friday. Read more HERE.)

The arcade was closed Tuesday as part of its temporarily shortened hours. It’s hours are now noon to 6 p.m. Sunday, Monday, Friday and Saturday.

NickelWorld has been rooted in nostalgic games and decor — and prices from a bygone era — since its founding in 1996.

The arcade is home to more than 20 video games and more than 60 redemption-style games that dispense tickets you can redeem for prizes.

This article is by Kevin Haas. Email him at khaas@rockrivercurrent.com or follow him on X at @KevinMHaas or Instagram @thekevinhaas and Threads @thekevinhaas