Teenage biz whiz Tommy Gu to open state of art games arcade Paradigm Zone to Adelaide CBD

Adelaide is set to get a new state-of-the-art entertainment arcade that promises to impress – and it’s been dreamt up by a 19-year-old business entrepreneur.

A South Australian-first Light Matrix game is the centrepiece of a new state-of-the-art entertainment arcade in the city.

The Paradigm Zone combines traditional arcade favourites with cutting-edge gaming experiences never-before-seen in Adelaide across two levels in Gawler Place.

The brainchild of teenager entrepreneur Tommy Gu, the futuristic centre will also include karaoke rooms, photo booths and a dining area serving up frozen yoghurt and acai bowls.

“When I came up with the idea for Paradigm Zone, I wanted to bring something completely new to Adelaide – something that would not only entertain but also inspire others to dream big,” Mr Gu, 19, said.

Mr Gu worked with software developers and manufacturers in China to bring his vision for the two-level, state-of-the-art futuristic arcade to life. Picture: Dean Martin

The unique Light Matrix game, first created in the US, features a floor of almost 500 tiles, which light up in different colours. Groups of players have to navigate among the tiles to score points.

Mr Gu worked with software developers and manufacturers in China to design his own version of the game and bring it to Adelaide.

“It can be physically demanding but it’s incredibly fun. It combines exercise and gaming in a fun way,” he said.

The Paradigm Zone will also have several Japanese Rhythm video games, including the IIDX Game and Sound Voltex, which Mr Gu said are “incredibly popular” in Melbourne and Sydney.

“My vision was to try and make it an all-in-one venue. I wanted something unique where people would go inside and be constantly wowed, wherever they went,” said Mr Gu, who moved to Adelaide from Shanghai, China, with his family in 2012.

Mr Gu said he’s been developing businesses since he was 16 and was inspired by his parents who ran a supermarket, wholesaling and real estate business in China.

“I’ve always been motivated by my parents’ journey and their drive to succeed,” he said.

“Watching them from a young age gave me the courage to start my own businesses.”

The Paradigm Zone, at 58 Gawler Place, is set to open on Friday, October 4.