Arcade Classics
The biggest trend in nightlife entertainment is arcade bars. More and more bar owners are changing their concept to include arcade machines that attract crowds young and old, which begs the question – Why are bars with arcade machines so popular?
The main reason is simply the transformative experience an arcade bar provides for its patrons. Those who grew up in the golden era of gaming can step back in time to enjoy Ms. Pac-Man arcade machines, Centipede and other classics. These masters of the joystick will often serve as entertainment for other drinkers who are shocked to see just how much skill is truly involved in mastering these games.
We are also at a point in history where arcade machines are something that millennials are starting to find cool. They provide a glimpse into what their parents grew up loving and also show a snapshot in time that exhibits just how far games have come. It’s also true that mixing alcohol and arcade machines isn’t something new. In the earliest days of arcade machines, Atari was developing games that would be tested in bars. They even would set up the gameplay to be bar friendly. In other words, most gaming experiences lasted for 3-5 minutes, which their research showed was the perfect amount of time to allow other users to jump in on the action while the last player went and grabbed a drink.
Bar owners in the 80s loved arcade machines because they averaged an additional $200 of revenue for the establishment per week. Once the success of arcade machines in bars was established, the cabinets that housed these arcade machines became more scalable and cost-effective. This allowed brands like Atari to expand their business model to children and teenagers.
Home consoles took over the market by the mid-90s and have continued to provide the standard in gaming. However, much like fashion trends, which was once old is new again in arcade machinery. Players can’t flock to home systems in a bar setting, but the communal aspect of bar arcades continues to drive business. After all, these arcade machines were originally intended for bar use.
Whether you’re new to the arcade game scene or have fond memories of playing decades ago, there are few better ways to spend a Saturday night out than enjoying a cocktail while challenging your friends to beat your high score.
Arcade Classics is the leading online manufacturer and retailer for authentic '80s arcade machines. All machines are compatible with your favorite classic arcade games!
