Otter Space: Skerries’ New Hub for Gaming and Community

Skerries, a coastal town in County Dublin, Ireland, has welcomed a unique new establishment: Otter Space, a game shop and café catering to both casual players and dedicated gaming communities. Located on the first floor of the Holmpatrick Shopping Centre, the shop aims to be a welcoming and inclusive space for all, with a particular focus on neurodiversity.

A Space for All Gamers

Otter Space, co-founded by Amy Hanley and Lorenzo Petrone, opened its doors approximately five months ago. The shop offers a wide variety of games, including popular titles like Catan and Dungeons & Dragons, alongside more niche options such as Calico, Sushi Go, and Cascadia. Beyond retail, Otter Space functions as a café and a dedicated play space, hosting events and fostering a sense of community.

Catering to Neurodiversity

A key aspect of Otter Space’s mission is to provide a comfortable and accepting environment for neurodivergent individuals. Hanley and Petrone, both diagnosed with autism, designed the space with this in mind. Regular visitor Joe Mcloone highlighted the appeal of rules-based games for neurodivergent individuals, noting the predictability and lack of unexpected elements. The shop also features a sensory room equipped with noise-dampening foam, video game imagery, and a basket of sensory toys.

From Office Job to Game Shop

Petrone transitioned to opening Otter Space after seeking a more fulfilling career path. He initially considered becoming a professional card player or streamer, but ultimately decided to create a physical space for gaming enthusiasts. Hanley, with a background in library work, envisioned the shop as a community hub similar to a library, offering a quieter and more welcoming atmosphere.

Events and Community Building

Otter Space hosts a variety of events, including regular Riftbound tournaments on Thursdays and larger monthly events. They are also working to establish a consistent Yu-Gi-Oh! tournament, with approximately 20 people signed up for an upcoming competition. The shop also hosts after-school clubs and provides a space for individuals to connect over shared interests like Warhammer figurines.

A Growing Community

Otter Space aims to fill a gap in the North County Dublin area, providing a local alternative to traveling to city centers for gaming events and community gatherings. The shop’s founders emphasize creating a welcoming and inclusive space where people can perceive comfortable and connect with others who share their passion for gaming.

Identify more information about Otter Space on Facebook, Meetup, or their online shop at shop.otterspace.ie.