Everything You Need to Know About PlayPass

What is a PlayPass?

Our PlayPass is a $5 cover fee for enjoying our space and games during some of our busiest times.

After 4 PM on days when we’re open (except Mondays), there will be a $5 per-person PlayPass fee charged at the door for coming in to play at one of our tables.

Why Does PlayPass Exist?

When you pull a game off one of our shelves, we want it to be in great condition and have all of its pieces every single time. But our games get a lot of wear and tear and often need to be repaired or, in many cases, replaced entirely.

While some places might pass on that cost through increased food and beverage costs, table tab minimums, or charging by the hour to play games, we strive to keep our prices low and games in great shape through our PlayPass system. We appreciate your part in that!

Skip the PlayPass Fee, Become a Member

Visit the Rook Room Game Lounge & Cafe often? You should consider becoming a member!

Memberships are $180 a year and not only do you get to skip the PlayPass fee every visit, you also get a ton of other exclusive perks throughout the year – all for just $15 a month. Want to learn more? Check out our Memberships page.

PlayPass Frequently Asked Questions

Who has to pay the PlayPass fee?

Anyone over the age of 11 coming in to play after 4 PM on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, or Sunday. There is no PlayPass fee on Monday nights. Members don’t have to pay the PlayPass fee.

What if I’m not playing a game?

You will still need to pay the PlayPass fee. The PlayPass fee is essentially reserving you space at a table to stay and play (or not) as long as you want without added pressure to meet a food and beverage minimum.

What if I’m getting an order to go?

If you’re getting food or a beverage to go, you will not have to pay the PlayPass fee. Please head directly to the Order Here area of the bar in our cafe to place your order.

How will you know if I’ve already paid?

During PlayPass hours, we will stamp hands on entry to indicate you’ve paid. That allows you to come and go if you need to without having to pay again. If you have an ink allergy, we do use allergy-free ink, but please alert the host, and we will give you an alternate form of participation.

What all does the PlayPass fee include?

The PlayPass fee allows you to come in, grab space at one of our tables, and full access to our game shelves without worrying about any by-the-hour or food and beverage minimum charges.

What if I come in before 4 PM?

There is no PlayPass fee before 4 PM any day that we’re open. If you come in prior to 4 PM and plan to stay and play past 4 PM, we kindly ask that you see a staff member to pay your fee and get your hand stamped.

Does the PlayPass come with a Parking Pass?

The PlayPass does not include a Parking Pass. Since there is often plenty of on-street parking available, we decided to keep costs low and also encourage active transportation methods by not including the Parking Pass as part of the PlayPass system. Parking Passes can still be purchased via our menu or a staff member for $5.

Thank You

Thank you for your participation in our PlayPass system and for helping us to maintain our play space and game library for many years to come.

While we understand that a cover fee may feel unnecessary, we developed the system over many hours of careful thought to make sure we’re keeping our prices as low as possible while maintaining the amazing experience our guests have come to expect.

We appreciate your continued support of the best place to play in Des Moines!