7 things to like about the Imperium eSports Bar and Gaming Lounge

We previously told you a few things about Imperium, the Philippines’ first eSports bar and gaming lounge. In that same article, I mentioned how I haven’t been to a bar in my life primarily because going to bars don’t strike me as something fun. However, for Imperium, I was ready to make an exception. Upon attending Imperium’s grand opening on December 12, 2013, I can say it was well-worth leaving my comfort zone. Here are a number of reasons why.

1. Well-known, easily accessible location

Some people can easily find their way around the city. If you’re not that kind of person, don’t worry. Imperium isn’t difficult to find. It’s on the second floor of the Metrowalk Complex on Meralco Avenue. For those who are commuting, you can get to Metrowalk by taking a taxi from SM Megamall or Shangri-La. Since Metrowalk is a popular go-to place, you don’t have to worry about telling the taxi drivers how to get there.

2. Imperium is friendly to bar noobs

Some people I hope to take with me to Imperium haven’t been to bars either, and whether you believe it or not, some of them are also hesitant to visit the place because of that. I’m not sure if it’s just us, but bars can be both tiring and intimidating because of the idea of not being able to fit in. I was quite wary of this before I got to Imperium.

I had no idea what the drinks were supposed to mean, really. I didn’t want any alcoholic drinks. The waiter was helpful and courteous enough to tell me that they did have soda and light beers, but also pointed out which alcoholic drinks were best for beginners just in case I’d feel adventurous any time later. He was also kind enough to tell my companion that the Mana Potion drink could potentially spell a knock-out and recommended the Tony Stark instead. For those of you who are curious, here’s what those drinks are made of.

3. SteelSeries peripherals on all computers

Yes. They have authentic SteelSeries gear on the computers. Now how many places do you think have that in this country? I was itching to get my hands on them as soon as I saw the Siberia V2 headsets. Each of the twelve computer units had a Steelseries Shift gaming keyboard, a SteelSeries Kinzu gaming mouse and a SteelSeries Siberia V2. That perfect SteelSeries gaming setup is complemented by chairs that are comfortable without being too bulky.

4. You’re allowed to bring your own game title or gear

If you follow the eSports scene, you will notice that most players bring around their own gear. This is because professional players as well as serious and hardcore gamers often prefer using their own gear for comfort and ease of playing — from your mouse grip to the inclination of the keyboard.

Imperium understands that. If you’re not into the Steelseries gears on the PCs, you can bring your own gaming gear. Console gamers can also bring their own fight stick or controller to the bar. And of course, you are also free to bring your own game titles. Imperium has its games library already listed in its About page, so you can take a look and see if it has what you want.