Martin Newell’s passion for gaming and community started in the 1980s arcade scene. As a young gamer, he discovered how these lively local venues were more than just places to play—they were social spaces where confidence grew, friendships formed, and a sense of belonging was nurtured. These early experiences inspired him to recreate that sense of community in today’s world.
With this vision in mind, Martin founded Stimulii, a company dedicated to bringing back the joy of face-to-face interactions through fun, family-friendly events held in familiar local venues like schools, pubs, and cinemas. His aim is to bring neighbours together, encouraging connection and camaraderie through shared activities. Whether it’s quiz nights, sports games, or dance and singing sessions, these gatherings are designed to promote participation, break down barriers, and build genuine relationships.
Through Stimulii Gaming, Martin also focuses on supporting mental and physical health. Carefully selected games are central to this effort, chosen not only for entertainment but also for their ability to foster confidence, teamwork, and sense of unity. These activities are also found to be welcoming for people aged 8 to 88, providing a safe environment free from the negativity often found in places, such as online gaming and social platforms.
For Martin and his team, the core goal is to create experiences that are about real people enjoying different activities together—whether competing, dancing, singing, or just sharing moments—ultimately strengthening bonds with each other and making a positive difference.
In a world increasingly dominated by screens and virtual interactions, his mission is to remind us of the timeless importance of genuine human connection—one game, one smile, and one community at a time.