After the pandemic forced many businesses to shut permanently, Shaundel Celestin knew she needed to adapt her 13-year-old business to the new normal of social distancing and comply with safety protocols. And a year after closing its doors, Nemesis Video Gaming Lounge is reopening in a brand new space in the Pointe-Claire Plaza, only five minutes away from the old location. Celestin says it was the best decision she could have made, as the feedback has been positive across the board. The larger space means gamers can safely enjoy all that Nemesis has to offer.

In addition to a larger space, gamers can expect an improved virtual reality arena that offers a unique multiplayer experience for up to four players at a time, as well as a wide range of gaming accessories. Nemesis also operates its KidCoders Computer Academy from the same space. The educational side of gaming,  Celestin says, is the main objective of Nemesis. She thinks it’s important to teach kids that while playing video games is fun, knowing how to build their own can be enjoyable as well.

With a degree in Design and Program Analytics and experience working in the tech industry, Celestin feels there is an underserved demand for tech skills like coding, a gap which KidCoders is aiming to fill. From day camps to online classes, students 9-16 can learn everything from basic coding fundamentals to designing their own video game. Kids will leave with tangible skills that Celestin says will broaden their horizons and prepare them for a future where tech skills will be more in demand than ever. Nemesis also works with the Provincial Nominee Program to teach new immigrants coding skills, as well as the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Montreal.

But of course, Nemesis is a gaming arena so gamers can expect lots of video games. From classic console gaming like PS and Nintendo, state-of-the-art VR or PC gaming, there is something for every gamer at Nemesis. They can facilitate group events for corporate team building, private game nights, birthday parties or virtual reality events, all in a spacious, pandemic-compliant arena. They also offer ped-day passes, coding workshops and mobile rentals.

For more information, visit nemesislan.ca

Related read: Why it is crucial to teach kids to code