FANS of comics, characters and coffee can now get their fix at a newly opened gaming café and shop at Sunderland city centre.

Geek Retreat, a game cafe, opened last month but was unable to serve customers indoors due to Covid restrictions.

To celebrate the full opening of the John Street venue, eagle-eyed fans can join in a Pokémon Polaroid hunt and bag a free milkshake.

Geek Retreat caters to those interested in Marvel and DC comics, sci-fi villains, animé and Warhammer as well as traditional board games.

Following the easing of Covid rules on May 17, Geek Retreat has now opened its café, offering a menu of US-style snacks, hot and cold food, coffee and milkshakes.

Since the store opened in April, franchisees Stewart Brass and Laura Green says it has been a big success are delighted with the response.

The couple has now organised a week of appearances by favourite characters and a treasure hunt for ten Pokémon Polaroids, which have been hidden around the city centre at ‘Pokéstops.’

“We want people to look for the polaroids and when they find one, take a socially distanced picture with one,” said Mr Brass. “And then if they bring it into the store they can claim a free Pokémon Plushie.”

Characters that will be out and about on the streets of Sunderland this week include Super Mario’s Mario and Luigi, The Mandalorian, Baby Yoda and Bruno.

On Friday, May 21, anyone visiting the store between 4pm and 6pm will be able to enjoy a magic show, with Mando and Bruno doing one last city tour the following day.

Mr Brass said: “We just wanted to make this a really special week now that we’ve been able to fully open.

“We hope that everyone will enjoy seeing their favourite characters out and about and will also keep their eyes open for the polaroids.”

The owners also plan to host tabletop role-playing games and card games, with fans able to take part in official tournaments for the likes of Pokemon and Dungeons and Dragons.

Quizzes, comic book signings and the introduction of arcade machines are also in the world, while autism-friendly afternoons will also in the coming weeks and months.

Sharon Appleby, head of business operations at Sunderland BID, said: "It is great to welcome the first Geek Retreat branch to Wearside.”

“The franchise has absolutely cornered a niche but sizeable market and we are delighted that Sunderland gaming fans can now enjoy their hobby without having to leave the city.”