Selecting the Perfect Arcade Mix: A Guide for Entertainment Venues

In the competitive market of entertainment venues, arcade games stand as timeless attractions that can significantly enhance the customer experience and contribute to a venue's revenue. However, with an ever-expanding array of options, selecting the right mix of arcade games becomes a crucial decision for venue owners. This comprehensive guide aims to navigate you through the process of choosing arcade games that not only fit your venue's theme and customer demographics but also optimize your financial returns through revenue sharing models.

Understanding Revenue Sharing in Arcade Gaming

Before diving into the selection process, it's essential to grasp the concept of revenue sharing—a prevalent financial model in the arcade game industry. Under this model, arcade games are provided by suppliers at no initial cost to the venue. Instead, the generated revenue is split on a 50-50 basis after any applicable fees. This arrangement minimizes upfront investment for venues and aligns the interests of both parties towards maximizing the games' earning potential.

Step 1: Assessing Your Venue's Theme and Demographics

The first step in selecting the right arcade games is to understand your venue's unique atmosphere and the demographics of your clientele. A family entertainment center might lean towards games that offer cooperative play and are suitable for all ages, while a bar or nightclub might focus on competitive, high-energy games that appeal to young adults. Aligning your game selection with your venue's theme and customer base is key to creating an engaging environment.

Step 2: Variety is the Spice of Gaming

Diversity in your arcade game lineup is crucial to cater to different interests and keep patrons engaged for longer periods. A well-rounded selection should include a mix of genres:

• Classic Games: Timeless hits like "Pac-Man" and "Space Invaders" evoke nostalgia and appeal to a wide audience.
• Sports Simulators: Games like virtual bowling or basketball shootouts attract sports enthusiasts and encourage friendly competition.
• Racing Games: High-adrenaline racing simulators offer an immersive experience and are perennial favorites.
• Shooting Games: Action-packed shooters provide an engaging challenge for those seeking a thrill.
• Redemption Games: Skill-based games that offer tickets for prizes can be particularly lucrative and add an extra layer of excitement.

Step 3: Considering Game Footprint and Layout

Space is a premium commodity in any venue. The physical footprint of arcade games varies significantly, from compact tabletop units to large multi-player setups. It's important to balance the attraction's appeal with its space requirements. Additionally, the layout of your arcade area should facilitate smooth traffic flow and encourage exploration of the entire game selection.

Step 4: Leveraging Technology and Trends

Staying abreast of the latest trends in gaming technology can give your venue a competitive edge. Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) games offer cutting-edge experiences that can draw tech-savvy crowds. Incorporating a few high-tech games can significantly enhance your venue's modern appeal.

Step 5: Financial Considerations and Revenue Sharing

When it comes to the financial aspect, revenue sharing models offer a viable solution to diversify your arcade game selection without hefty initial investments. Given that the revenue is split on a 50-50 basis after any fees, selecting games with proven earning potential is crucial. Engage with suppliers who are willing to provide performance data for their games, helping you make informed decisions based on historical earnings.

Step 6: Maintenance and Upkeep

The condition of your arcade games can significantly impact customer satisfaction and, consequently, your revenue. Opt for suppliers who provide comprehensive maintenance services as part of the revenue sharing agreement. Regular upkeep ensures that games remain operational and appealing to patrons.

Step 7: Customer Feedback Loop

Your patrons are a valuable source of insight into what works and what doesn't in your arcade game lineup. Implement mechanisms to gather customer feedback, be it through digital surveys, suggestion boxes, or direct interaction. This feedback loop can guide future game selections and adjustments.

Step 8: Rotating Your Game Selection

The novelty factor plays a significant role in the arcade game attraction. Regularly rotating your game selection can keep the arcade experience fresh and exciting for repeat customers. Work with your suppliers to identify underperforming games and replace them with new or different options that might perform better.

Success Stories: Maximizing Engagement and Revenue

Many venues have successfully enhanced their customer experience and increased revenue through strategic arcade game selection. For instance, a downtown bar revitalized its space by introducing a mix of classic arcade games and modern VR experiences, becoming a popular destination for both casual patrons and gaming enthusiasts. The variety catered to a broad audience, and the novelty of VR games drew in crowds eager for new experiences.

Another success story comes from a family entertainment center that strategically selected a diverse range of games, from kid-friendly redemption games to adult-oriented racing simulators. This approach ensured that families could enjoy a variety of experiences, encouraging longer stays and repeat visits. The center's revenue sharing model allowed for regular updates to the game lineup, keeping the offerings fresh and engaging.

Selecting the right arcade games for your entertainment venue is a multifaceted process that involves understanding your audience, embracing variety, and making informed financial decisions. By leveraging revenue sharing models, you can minimize upfront costs and align your business goals with those of your suppliers, ensuring a mutually beneficial partnership. Remember, the ultimate aim is to create a unique and engaging atmosphere that enhances the customer experience, encouraging longer stays, repeat visits, and, ultimately, increased revenue for your venue. With careful planning and strategic selection, your arcade can become a cornerstone of your venue's entertainment offerings. Player Two can help you find the right fit for your business and work with you to ensure you are getting the most out of your investment.