We compiled the latest trends in this article to give you a hint of the next big thing to set up at your family entertainment venue.

At Shuffly, we have been working closely with leisure entrepreneurs and we bring you insider information so you to offer the best experiences to your guests. Happy guests mean happy customers and better profits for your business.

1. Competitive Socializing Game Ideas

Competitive socializing is the fastest-growing trend in the leisure industry. Your guests, more than just a place to hang out, want an experience. A competitive experience within a friendly social atmosphere: Competitive socializing.

Competitive social games turn your venue into THE hotspot where guests won't only stay longer than usual but they will likely return to your venue. Despite having higher startup costs (investment needed for game gear) the return on that investment is significantly higher than regular food-and-drinks businesses only.

We shortlisted the best games and activities for your family entertainment business based on our experience helping leisure entrepreneurs:

Top 9 Competitive Socializing Game Ideas & Concepts

Shuffleboard Tables

Shuffleboard is a classic game in the US and in the UK and an upcoming trend across Europe. The strongest benefit of shuffleboards in a family center is that they increase your guests' dwell time, promoting longer stays for your customers and boosting the revenue streams of your leisure business.

The question is not if but when you are going to include this game in your business, as it could be a differentiator of potential customers choosing your venue or a competitor's.

• Shuffleboard startup costs: from 8k USD. Shuffleboard tables differ in pricing depending on their intended use. Professional shuffleboards can have a higher price point, from 8k - 20k USD. Home shuffleboards can range between 2k - 6k USD.

• Shuffleboard maintenance: EASY. Regular maintenance is the cleaning process, wax-spraying the board every 3-6 months, and applying sand to the table often to improve the slide and the game experience.

• Shuffleboard setup: EASY. Shuffleboard tables come almost ready to use. The setup is straightforward and can take up to 8 hours, depending on your venue location and shuffleboard model.

Buy The Best Shuffleboards for your Venue

Arcade Games & VR Arcade

Both regular arcade games such as Pinball and VR Arcade games, have increased in popularity exponentially in the last few years. 

The experience can be related to AR darts: fully immersive, and engaging, with many types of scenarios and game settings which makes it the perfect solution to boost your revenue per footprint. Perfect for the whole family to play. Another example of a VR arcade could be an immersive laser tag arena.

Classic arcade games are more compact: the setup comes down to the machine where the game happens. VR Arcade will take an entire room for gamers to enjoy the game. 

The revenue differs substantially: 

- Classic arcade games generate revenue per time or simply coin-based arcade machines.

 - VR arcade games are a much more immersive experience intended for groups, so the revenue per player tends to be higher.

• Arcade games startup costs: Classic arcade game machines to play games such as pinball, pac-man, and Street Fighter can start at 500 USD. VR arcade game setups can be 500 USD for simple headsets and up to 10-20k USD for fully immersive VR installations.

• Arcade maintenance: HIGH. The amount of players per day can be substantial therefore the usage will be intense which means players might even accidentally hit the gear. Malfunctions or broken gear might be frequent.

• Arcade setup: MEDIUM. Classic arcade games will only need a relatively simple installation, while VR arcade games might need entire rooms to accommodate players.

Mini-Golf

Miniature golf, or minigolf, is a great choice for family entertainment centers (FECs) due to its simplicity and its long playing time frames, which makes it for both, guests and venue owners, one of the best activities for socializing.

Minigolf courses are short, visually appealing and fun. Certainly you can “wow” guests with the proper minigolf course setup. Minigolf encourages repeat visits and extended stay times, boosting your venue revenue.

Minigolf Startup Costs:

• Basic Courses: Simple designs with simple theming start at around $30,000.

• Themed Courses: More elaborate setups with complex themes and custom obstacles can range from $100,000 to $500,000 or more.

Minigolf Maintenance:

• HIGH: Regular maintenance is needed: routine cleaning, repairing damaged obstacles, and ensuring the turf is in excellent shape. Extra seasonal adjustments may be required to adapt to weather conditions if the course is outdoors.

Minigolf Setup:

• MEDIUM to HIGH: The setup complexity depends on the course's design. Basic courses are easier to set up but more complex-themed courses with interactive elements require significantly more time and effort (and budget).

Augmented Reality Darts

Augmented Reality Darts (AR) is the classic dart game elevated to a whole new experience. It is a more immersive experience for players and more interactive. Players can choose different scenarios within the same board which makes it perfect for guests to never get bored, even using the same game for hours. Longer stays = more revenue per guest.

AR darts installation requires an interactive dartboard that detects where darts landed to make the game more immersive. Also, it comes with a touch screen to make the choices of your game and even play with it (things like quiz games) and a projector to display the dart scenario.

• AR Darts startup costs: from 4k EUR. It requires unique components usually sold as a bundle. Depending on your provider you might have to also pay a license fee every month, which could range between 100 -500 USD per month per station.

• AR Darts maintenance: MEDIUM. As there are many technical components involved, it can be that regular small fixes need to be done regularly.

• AR Darts setup: HIGH. AR darts require multiple elements until it is ready for players therefore its setup is rather complex.

Order A Premium Shuffleboard From Us 

Bowling Alleys

By far one of the most known and played games in the leisure industry. Your revenue requirements and your audience will help you to decide how many lanes you will need. Also, bowling alleys require many accessories for players: bowling balls, shoes, and all the machinery.

Bowling alleys are a direct revenue stream, as you can charge guests for alley use and all the needed accessories for them to play. Yet you will need extra activities to keep your guests consuming and enjoying: for example, a restaurant or alternative games.

• Bowling alleys startup costs: from 40k - 60k USD per lane. Bowling alleys require one of the largest square footages to set up so always consider the location and all the other amenities you might need in the future.

• Bowling alleys maintenance: HIGH. It will take quite some staff to clean the alleys, keep the machinery up and running as well having a team dedicated in the service of all the gear needed by bowling players.

• Bowling alleys setup: HIGH. Bowling alleys are a full construction project.‍

Design Your Revenue Generating Shuffleboard Experience

Billiard Tables

Billiards can be considered one of the most classic games in bars and pubs, so if you buy a billiard table for your venue it is almost a sure win. The most common business case for billiards is coin-based tables which are less common these days due to the lack of people carrying cash.

The core revenue stream for billiards comes usually from the drinks and food consumption while the game happens.

• Billiard startup costs: tables can start at 500 USD plus:

- Billiard cues, from 50 USD each

- Billiard cues stand, from 100-200 USD per stand

- Billiard chalk, from 10-30 USD.

• Billiard maintenance: EASY. Apart from regular cleaning and sporadic blocks in the table, you might not need much maintenance.

• Billiard setup: MEDIUM. Depending on your provider, you might get a fully assembled table, which in this case, the setup gets only complex to fit the table in the right room. Some billiard providers provide an assembly team, which might entitle some extra costs. We advise you to buy a table that requires minimal assembly effort.

Axe Throwing

Ax or Axe throwing can be cataloged as one of the most dangerous therefore one of the most exciting competitive games. It can be seen as darts: a board to land the scores based on your aiming skills with the ax.

To make money with Axe Throwing is simple: pay per use (usually 1-2 hour game) + food and drink consumption. The best you can do is to combine multiple competitive social games at your venue so people do not have an excuse to go away.

• Axe Throwing Startup Costs: Setting up an axe-throwing lane costs around $8,000 to $9,000 per lane, including materials, targets, and safety gear.

• Axe Maintenance: HIGH. Regular maintenance involves checking and replacing targets (where people throw the ax), sharpening axes, and ensuring safety barriers are intact.

• Axe Throwing Setup: HARD. Axe throwing lanes need to be built on-site, so it is not a plug-and-play. Setup requires a clear space for each lane, safety barriers, targets, and proper lighting.

Foosball

Foosball is a classic game that many have already in their childhood. Long games are common and the best business case is a pay-per-time played. Time ago, coin-based soccer tables were more common but currently not many people carry cash.

Foosball is great for quick and competitive fun for the whole family and is one of the most popular and engaging games when playing with friends.

• Foosball Startup Costs: Standard foosball tables range from $400 to $600. Professional tables can cost from $1,000 and up.

• Foosball Maintenance: MEDIUM. Maintenance includes regular cleaning, lubricating rods, and replacing worn parts like handles and balls.

• Foosball Setup: EASY. Setup is straightforward; just place the table in a designated game area and ensure it’s level.

Jenga XXL

Jenga XXL takes the classic block-stacking game to a larger scale, a great interactive game for all ages. It's a great way to encourage social interaction and light-hearted competition.

Jenga XXL can help your venue as a great option for teamwork.

• Jenga XXL Startup Costs: Jenga XXL sets typically cost between $100 and $200.

• Jenga XXL Maintenance: EASY. Minimal maintenance is needed, just regular checks to ensure blocks are in good condition.

• Jenga XXL Setup: EASY. You just have to ensure a proper place (table or ground area) to stack the blocks safely and plenty of space for players.

Expert Guide: Make Your Venue A Competitive Socializing Center

2 - Launch loyalty programs

The most profitable way to run your family entertainment business is by keeping your current customers coming back.

You need to create a loyal customer base, some call it fans or followers, in any case keep your guests thinking about coming back soon. The best technique for that is providing the best experience: engaging games & activities and delicious food & drinks. Once you have covered the basics you can implement any of the following:

• Point-Based Programs: Guests earn points time they come to your venue. Then points can be exchanged by game credits, drinks, food or anything you might think is appealing to keep them happy and coming back.

• Tiered Rewards Programs: Gamers love these programs, gamification at its best: the top players in each game will earn a price. Rewards will encourage visitors to come back once more to see their rankings going up to not only win the prices but also for recognition. Make sure you reward your best players with the best prices.

• Membership Programs: Offer a paid membership that provides exclusive benefits like unlimited game passes, priority booking for events, and special discounts on food and drinks. This not only builds loyalty but also provides a steady revenue stream.

• Punch Card Programs: Simple and effective, this system rewards guests after a certain number of visits or purchases. For example, after buying five group passes, the sixth one is free.

Read our full marketing guide for family entertainment center

3 - Create a guest-friendly layout

Your venue design will ensure every guest enjoys their time at your venue. Here are the most common layout best practices we encountered working with multiple family venues:

• Wide areas ensure safety: Keep pathways clear and spacious for easy movement and avoid people accidentally hitting each other.

• Group similar activities together: create different zones. A family fun center will have large groups. A proper FEC layout will make it simple for guests to find what they need.

• Provide a relaxing area: guests might need to recharge from time to time. Being able to take a break encourages longer stays, and repeat visits.

• Set up the right signage: Use clear signs to direct guests to key areas like restrooms, dining, games, and most importantly emergency exists.

• Ensure safety: Include non-slip flooring and safe play zones for children. Make sure each activity covers fully all safety standards.

• Accessible design: Make sure all areas are accessible to guests with disabilities or do your best to ensure it.

• Lighting: Use adequate lighting to ensure safety and offer the right ambiance.

• Offer safe storage: Offer secure lockers for guests to store personal belongings.

Read our guide on family entertainment center design we wrote at Shuffly based on the experience working together with leisure entrepreneurs. 

4 - Integrate updated technology

From automated doors, and booking systems to immersive experiences, your family venue has to integrate the latest technology to keep growing. Technology facilitates operations automation: you become more efficient and won't need much personnel.

Here are the most common technology implementations we encountered while working with clients:

• Digital Ticketing: for example online ticket sales or QR code entry.

• Interactive Games: such as the supercharged shuffleboard or AR darts.

• Mobile Apps: Integrate an app for booking, updates, and loyalty rewards.

• Self-Service Kiosks: Use kiosks for food orders and ticket purchases and reduce the need for full-time employees.

• Cashless Payments: Enable contactless and mobile payment options to avoid people standing in queues.

• Smart Lighting and Sound: Install systems that can be controlled for different events.

• Wi-Fi Access: of course provide free, fast Wi-Fi for guests.

• Automated Messaging: Use SMS and email notifications for bookings and offers to make sure guests do not miss a bit.

• Security Tech: Enhance safety with modern surveillance and access control systems.

• Maintenance Alerts: Implement technology for real-time maintenance and repair alerts.

5 - Improve your amenities

Your family entertainment center business will host thousands of guests per month, how you welcome them and serve them will make a difference in your balance sheet and profits. 

Upgrade your amenities to encourage longer stays and most importantly repeated visits. Here some ideas you can offer to improve your venue:

• Clean Bathrooms: and also they are spacious, and well-stocked with essentials. The psychology behind this is simple: if guests see you take care of the toilets, they will think you take good care of the rest as well.

• Comfortable Seating: Provide cozy and ample seating for guests to relax.

• Storage Options: Offer secure lockers for guests' personal belongings.

• Cleanliness First: Regularly clean and maintain amenities to keep them inviting.

• Diverse Drinks & Food: so your guests can keep up the energy it takes to have fun.

• Accessible Options: Ensure your family entertainment business welcomes everybody and it is accessible to guests with disabilities.

6 - Make your venue event-friendly

Birthday parties, corporate gatherings, anniversaries... Any celebration should be an opportunity for your family entertainment business to stand out. You can achieve this by adding these elements into your venue:

• Event Spaces: Designate areas that can be easily transformed for events.

• Party Packages: Offer appealing discounts for party packages, birthdays, celebrations... Make it easier for your visitors to keep you on top of mind when they think about organizing an event.

• Corporate Events: Provide facilities, activities, games, and a great catering offering for team-building or corporate events.

• Online Booking: Implement an easy-to-use online booking system. Either business or personal gatherings are planned weeks if not months ahead, making the booking process smooth for them.

• Event Gear: Things such as a great sound system, lighting, furniture, etc. Ready to set up by request.

• Catering Services: Offer food and drink packages specifically for events.

• Promote Your Venue: Make sure you store relevant moments of each event so you can share them on your social media or your website. Future events will get booked if visitors see your venue can host them with examples of previous gatherings.

Learn more about setting up events at your venue

7 - Prioritize cleanliness and safety

Most important aspects for a clean and safe family fun business venue are:

• Daily Cleaning: Establish a thorough daily cleaning routine for all areas.

• Visible Sanitation: Hand sanitizers all across your venue will reduce the spread of bacteria or viruses.

• Clear Rules: Display safety guidelines prominently and enforce them to both team members and guests.

• Regular Inspections: Frequent safety checks on equipment and facilities.

• Emergency Preparedness: Prepare the best team for emergencies including first aid equipment readily available.

• Ventilation: Invest in proper airflow and air quality systems.

• Safe & Comfortable Layout: Design spaces to minimize hazards and facilitate easy movement.

8 - Create an unforgettable atmosphere

The topic, art, and design of your venue will make it memorable. Based on your target audience you will know better what is appealing for your guests. Here are some ideas for your venue's vibe:

• Themed Decor: Stay up to date with the latest movies, series, video games, etc. Those will determine most guests’ preferences which is crucial for them to make the right choice between different venues.

• Lighting: Use ambient and themed lighting to enhance the mood.

• Soundscapes: Play appropriate background music and sound effects. Watch out with the volume as it can cause fatigue if used wrongly.

• Interactive Elements: Make your venue immersive by adding elements such as interactive maps, touch screens, etc. Keep families engaged at all times.

• Impressive Entryways: Make is spectacular. That is your wow moment. People will remember it.

9 - Offer unique drink & food

An energetic day at your family venue will require the best food and drinks. You can also theme your catering to offer the most unique dining experience, paired with the rest of your venue. Food and drinks count for a large percentage of your revenue, make sure it is the core piece of your family venue plan. 

Here are some ideas for your food and drinks offering:

• Themed Menus: Align food and drink offerings with your venue's theme.

• Healthy Options: Include nutritious, vegan, vegetarian, and kid-friendly choices.

• Signature Items: Some people might return only for some special item on your menu. Get creative with food, it pays off.

• Local Favorites: Incorporate popular local specialties.

• Interactive Dining: Offer DIY food options like build-your-own pizzas or sundaes. Make it also a game.

• Beverage Variety: For example, vegan beers & coffees, local drinks, etc.

Ready to establish your venue as the next competitive social center in your town?

At Shuffly we build the best professional, custom, and home shuffleboards. Ready to transform your venue into the best place for social gatherings and competitive social gaming? Reach out to know more about our products and for leisure advice.

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