Eight On the Break — Local services in Dunellen

2025 UPDATE: 4 stars - 5 stars because they got a brand new taiko cab and how is that not 5 star performance. also, the last time i went it seems like they cleaned the place up

Pros: Like the only SDVX cab in NJ and LITERALLY the only newer model taiko cab in north jersey/nyc area. Tons of other rhythm games like wacca, maimai, taiko, sdvx, beatmania, chunithm, etc A bunch of retro pinball machines/Japanese racing games/other games that are hard to come by in the USA (I'm not into those but I'm sure lots of people are) Really nice billiard tables Good ass milkshakes Pretty cheap per play compared to other arcades in the area (almost half price of some in nyc) Helpful/friendly staff

Cons: Slightly old/beat up place, doesn't have the same vibe as a newer arcade like gatcha or round1, not a big deal though im just nitpicking

DO come here if you the absolute best rhythm game selections in the NYC metro area or if you're a pinball/racing game enthusiast

DO NOT come here if you're expecting a place with a super clean/modern atmosphere to hang out. They also doesn't have games that most young children would play, it's mostly retro games and obscure rhythm games. Also the food isn't bad but also isn't amazing so I personally wouldn't come here to just...

Literally the best arcade I've ever been to. Went there for the rhythm games and they're all (mostly) fantastic. Each game costs around 75 cents for 3 songs which is an amazing deal. The only problem with the place is that some of the machines need some repairs like the rhythm coaster machine there the left controller needs to be hit get hard. Overall though would highly recommend anyone who enjoys rhythm games to check the place out.

Edit: they fixed the groove coaster machine and the popn music machine so 5 stars. Also the spaghetti ice cream is good- * this experience was written by my teenager,he did this on his own accord.I agree about 8 on the Break.This place does not disappoint any enthusiast.I must also remark about the town of Dunellen as well,as it is wonderful. I found it to be friendly and extremely walkable.Also,affordable! So many things one can do in this little ,big town.One can even get to Dunellen by Rail or Bus. Amazing! Oh,The employees are spectacular, like Merrick. Edit: Arcade is very well kept.The machines are wiped with cleaner and paper towels every 20 mins(I visited 6 times in the span of 45days)The carpets were Deep cleaned twice among other things.I think the place not being too pretty...

As a lifelong player of ITG, DDR, StepMania- and PumpItUp! You could say I found my slice of heaven in terms of an arcade that mostly focuses on Rhythm based arcade gaming.

I do love the variety in the arcade- enough pinball tables to please, at least 1 of each rhythm series, some racers, and a few shooters. However with most of these being imports- without an english translation being able to skip demo mode on some cabinets can be a pain.

On our most recent trip over, we were greeted with at least 5 machines Out of Order- or some minor issues with buttons or joysticks (TMNT Leo- joystick issues btw). Not exactly unheard of, but some more major cabinets seemed to be out of order and take up a large portion of floor space.

Food is always good- and fair priced.

Near the pinball machines in the back the 2nd (unused entrance) there is a broken glass pane that is accessible to customers including taller children. Possible cut hazard- unless this was fixed.

Minor/More Important Issues aside this is one of the last remaining arcades in NJ- and should be kept alive with our business- but I do hope they improve the speed of repairs- and ensure that glass is taken...