In Colorado, a man named Devin McKenna is turning his childhood dream into reality by driving a mobile arcade across the state. He calls it the “Boss Battle Bus,” and it’s packed with classic video games that bring joy to people of all ages.
But the journey behind this bus is not just about games—it’s also a tribute to a fallen hero and a friendship that lives on.
The Idea Behind the Arcade Bus
Devin McKenna and his late friend Johnny Hurley shared a dream of building something fun that everyone could enjoy. That dream took shape in the form of an old Denver airport shuttle bus, now transformed into a retro arcade on wheels.
It holds over 12,000 games—from Pac-Man and NBA Jam to Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles—and can entertain more than two dozen players at once.
A Tribute to a Hero
Before buying the bus, McKenna noticed memorial stickers for Johnny inside. It turned out the bus had been built with Johnny’s help before he tragically died in 2021.
Johnny was hailed as a hero for stopping a gunman in Arvada, Colorado, but he was mistakenly shot by police afterward. McKenna wanted to make sure Johnny’s courage and passion lived on through the arcade bus.
Why It’s Called the “Boss Battle Bus”
The name “Boss Battle Bus” honors Johnny Hurley’s brave actions. The slogan, “Beat the boss, whatever the cost,” symbolizes Johnny’s sacrifice.
McKenna says it’s his way of making sure Johnny is never forgotten. “He gave everything, and it was to build this community. Now we’re building it,” he said.
More Than Just an Arcade
To expand the fun, McKenna partnered with a party rental company to form Epic Party Rentals. Now, people can rent the arcade bus for events, along with many other games. It has become a full-time mission for McKenna—bringing joy and laughter to others, just like he and Johnny dreamed.
A Personal Journey
McKenna’s story is also one of personal loss. Just three months after Johnny’s passing, his wife died. He believes both of them are watching over him, guiding him toward his life’s purpose. “They’re up there saying, ‘This is what you’re meant to do, kid,’” McKenna shared.
The Boss Battle Bus is more than just a rolling arcade. It’s a symbol of friendship, courage, and the power of joy to brighten even the darkest times. Through his work, McKenna honors the memory of his loved ones and spreads happiness to communities across Colorado.