Your Business Playbook Q&A
Thinking about adding games to your business? Here are some common questions answered to help make the best choice for your business.
Investing in commercial arcade games can significantly enhance your business’s appeal and profitability. They provide an excellent entertainment option for customers, increasing dwell time and encouraging repeat visits. For restaurants, bars, family entertainment centers, or office break rooms, a good arcade can create a fun atmosphere. This can lead to happier customers and more money from gameplay.
While classic games always have a strong following, modern attractions are also highly sought after. Perennial favorites include racing games, fighting games, and light-gun shooters. Redemption games, skee-ball and basketball machines remain incredibly popular, offering a fun challenge and the chance to win prizes. And, of course, claw machines are a ubiquitous and often highly profitable choice, drawing in players with the promise of a coveted prize.
While “video games” is a broad term encompassing everything from console to mobile games, “arcade video games” specifically refers to the “coin-operated”, dedicated machines found in commercial settings. These units are designed for durability and high-volume play, often featuring unique cabinets, controls, and gameplay experiences that are not typically replicated on home consoles.
The best mix depends heavily on your target demographic and business model. For a family-friendly establishment, a combination of redemption games, such as skee-ball and basketball machines, along with accessible arcade games (e.g., racing or classic titles), and a few claw machines would be ideal. A bar or adult-oriented venue might lean more towards competitive fighting games, classic arcade titles from the 80s and 90s, and perhaps a music rhythm game. Consider the space you have available and the overall ambiance you want to create. Read our full blog post on the subject for more details.
The costs can vary significantly. New arcade machines can cost from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands. Used machines are a more budget-friendly option but may require more immediate maintenance. Beyond the initial purchase, consider factors such as electricity consumption, routine cleaning, and the occasional need for part replacement or technical service. Redemption games will also incur ongoing costs for prizes. Factor these into your budget to ensure you remain profitable. Read our full blog post for more details.
Absolutely! Strategic placement is key. High-traffic areas are generally best for visibility and accessibility. Ensure there’s enough space around each arcade machine for comfortable gameplay and foot traffic. Consider noise levels – some games can be quite loud, so you might want to group them away from quieter areas of your establishment. Adequate lighting and clear signage can also attract players to your arcade. Read our full blog post on the subject for more details.
Beyond having a great selection of popular games, consider pricing strategies, loyalty programs, and regular promotions. Keep your machines well-maintained and clean to ensure a positive player experience. Refreshing your games arcade with new titles occasionally can also keep interest high. For redemption games, it is essential to offer a diverse and high-quality selection of prizes. Read our full blog post for more details.
