Thanks to the New York Times for its article (free reg. req.) discussing the rise of the videogame lounge as mass-market gaming centers. The article argues: "Offering a happy-hour substitute for 20- and even 30-somethings, video lounges might forever uncouple the terms 'hard core' and 'gamer.' They make video games accessible to adults who don't know the difference between 'Halo' and 'Mojo,' and are afraid to ask." Although similar (or interchangeable with?) the long-standing LAN gaming center, the piece argues: "Video games are sauntering further into the mainstream with Xbox and PlayStation lounges. They have sprung up in resorts like Telluride, Colo., and as adjuncts to dance clubs like Play in New York and Avalon in Hollywood, which last week installed a PlayStation 2 in its V.I.P. penthouse."