Let it out: APEX Entertainment offers new way to blow off steam in Ontario

ONTARIO — Smash a plate, dodge into another reality or test your aim with a blade — APEX Entertainment will bring a three-in-one experience to the Ontario Center when it opens May 1.

APEX Entertainment, located at 2209 Richland Mall, provides guests with a new way to blow off steam, compete with friends and try something different all in one place.

Guests can choose their “vibe” online, book appointments and select options for individuals or groups, including birthday parties and group outings.

The front of the space features Another World VR, where guests can choose from activities like cooking, building, shooting and more.

In the back, USmash and Blade Slang will offer high-energy outlets, with age requirements set at 13 and up for those attractions and 8 and up for VR, with minors accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Creating an outlet for fun and stress relief

Owner Toris Phinnessee said after connecting with Ontario Center Operations Manager Crystal Tolliver and learning the mall wanted new businesses, the two explored ideas that would appeal to the community.

They ultimately landed on the trifecta experience designed to keep people engaged for years.

USmash will allow guests to throw glass and other items in a controlled environment, with labeled targets like “my boss,” “the opps,” and “your ex,” adding a humorous twist.

He emphasized the goal centers on stress relief rather than promoting violence, describing it as a safe outlet for adrenaline.

He plans to expand the concept by working with mental health professionals to host anger management classes inside the rage room.

Meanwhile, the virtual reality experience aims to bring people together for entertainment and team-building.

Building a business rooted in community

Phinnessee said his passion for entrepreneurship drove him while creating the concept.

I’ve been around good people who have always done good things in the community, which inspired me to do the same and give back.

Toris Phinnessee, owner of apex entertainment

He owns Game Day Cuts in Ontario, with his wife, and operates The Food Tour food truck, which appears during Final Fridays in Mansfield.

He also works with the Ridge Project, where he teaches an intensive care development course and helps people transition back into society after incarceration by getting them stable back into society, finding jobs and reconnecting with their families.

“It’s in my DNA,” he said. “I love business, I went to school for business at Ohio Christian University.”

Phinnessee said his upbringing around community-minded people shaped his approach.

“I’ve been around good people who have always done good things in the community, which inspired me to do the same and give back,” he said.

“I’m just looking forward to it,” he said. “Hopefully the community comes out and supports it.”

(Photos inside APEX Entertainment. Credit: Hannah Martin)