A new video game concept is taking shape in North Austin. Start-Up Videogames plans to open at 12505 Rampart St., Building D, as early as August 15, 2026, according to founder Christian Amador. The space is currently in the latter phase of city permitting and remodeling.
Amador told What Now Austin that the idea came from a gap he saw in Austin’s gaming retail scene — one he experienced firsthand as a lifelong gamer. “As time passed and many of the stores I shopped at became more corporate, I realized that stores were losing that person-to-person relationship with their customers. It was all for the money rather than to put a smile on their face,” he said.
After hearing friends and fellow gamers express a desire for something fresher, he decided to move first. “I always had a feeling that sooner rather than later someone was going to try their luck and open a new store soon, so I decided to take a chance and set my foot in first,” Amador told What Now Austin.
He chose the Rampart Street location deliberately. Close to a school, an HEB, and several major tech facilities along the heavily trafficked West Parmer Lane corridor, the space offers access to customers from different backgrounds. “I thought it was a neat and small space where people could come in and feel like they are at home,” Amador said.
The video game retail and entertainment market has seen a notable resurgence in recent years, driven by renewed interest in retro gaming, collectibles, and in-person gaming experiences. Independent stores in particular have carved out loyal customer bases by offering trade-in programs, curated retro selections, and community events that larger chains have struggled to replicate.
For Amador, the project is deeply personal. “I’m proud to be an Austinite,” he said. “I really love the city and how video games bring us together. I’m one of you guys — just a normal dude passionate about video games. At Start-Up Videogames, we will always give it our all to satisfy our customers. Remember: retro is where it’s at.” He also had a message beyond the store itself: “If you have a dream, whatever it is, go for it. Give it your best, and you will see things about yourself that you never even knew were in you.”
Wanna know more? Follow Start-Up Videogames on Facebook for updates.
Note: After initial publication, founder Christian Amador reached out to What Now Austin with additional details about the project. This article has been updated to reflect that information.
