Why Tech Time Is Northern Virginia's Coolest Gaming Lounge

Tech Time Gaming Lounge, a computer gaming center located in Woodbridge, Virginia, has 65 PC and console gaming stations, and is home to many of today’s most popular games like Fortnite and FIFA19. The sleek, modern and spaceship-like environment also hosts birthday parties, tournaments and corporate events.

Steve Theobald, president and owner of Tech Time Gaming Lounge, has always been an avid gamer and loves watching people's faces light up when they walk into his gaming lounge. Learn more about Theobald and his business is this exclusive Patch one-on-one.

Patch: How long have you been doing business in town?

Theobald: Tech Time opened its doors on November 30, 2018.

Patch: What attracted you to the line of work you’re in, and how did you get started?

Theobald: After 10 years of owning and operating a document shredding business, I sold the company in 2017. I was searching for my next idea when I noticed that my three sons liked to watch people play video games on YouTube. I also went to an investor conference that had a panel discussion on investing in e-sports, and my eyes were opened to how big the industry was getting. It didn’t hurt that I had grown up playing Atari and still like to play computer games even in my 40s.

In doing my research, I came across E-Blue, a Hong Kong-based maker of gaming gear and operator of internet cafes, who were looking to expand into the US. I loved their look and contacted them about bringing their concept to the DC area. Woodbridge was a good location because of its proximity to both Fort Belvoir and Quantico, and soldiers tend to be avid gamers.

Patch: If you had to sum up your business mission to a stranger in five words, what would those words be?

Theobald: Northern Virginia’s coolest gaming lounge

Patch: What’s the biggest challenge or most difficult moment you’ve faced in your job?

Theobald: Construction was not easy. The space we occupy is a former Circuit City that had not been updated since the 1980s. Gutting the space and installing all the wiring needed to support a modern internet café took a lot more time and money than expected.

Patch: What’s the most satisfying part of your job?

Theobald: The most satisfying part of the job is watching people’s faces light up (especially kids’ faces) when they walk in for the first time and say how cool the space is.

Patch: How would you say your business or organization distinguishes itself from the others?

Theobald: Our environment is like nothing else in the area. Some internet cafes and LAN centers are not much more than dark rooms with a bunch of computers on desks. I wanted not only a cool environment, but also one where the whole family could come in and play. We have a party room that makes hosting birthday parties and other events a breeze. We offer a “Parents Play Free” special on weekends until 5 p.m.

Patch: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given when it comes to success?

Theobald: Be patient, but don’t be afraid to try new things. I have been in entrepreneurial ventures for almost my entire career, and I have learned to adapt quickly to meet the needs of customers.

Patch: Are there any new projects or endeavors you’re working on that you’re extra excited about?

Theobald: Right now, I’m just working hard to make our first location a success. If this works out, I hope to open other locations in the future.

Patch: Do you have any events coming up in your community?

Theobald: We have a full slate of tournaments in a wide variety of games. I encourage customers to check out our calendar.

Patch: How can Patch readers learn more about your work and business?

Theobald: Customers can learn more on our website, and follow on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram. We are located at 13592 Jefferson Davis Highway in Woodbridge, VA. Our phone number is 571-206-1400.

This Patch article is sponsored by Tech Time Gaming Lounge.