8 simple ways to create a more inviting, more profitable gaming experience
A well-kept gaming area is one of the biggest keys to success for a video gaming business. Simply put, if the space is clean, comfortable and inviting, people are more likely to visit frequently and stay longer.
It doesn’t have to be complicated. In many cases, it just takes a few minutes and a little attention from you and your staff each day.
Here are eight things you can do today to create a better, more profitable gaming area:
1. Make sure all the machines are working properly.
There’s nothing more frustrating for a customer than sitting down at a machine only to discover it isn’t working. Make it a habit to check your machines regularly and address problems as quickly as possible. Contact your TO immediately if you see any problems.
2. Give the screens and touchpads a quick cleaning.
Gaming machines get touched—a lot. Fingerprints, dust and the occasional spilled drink can quickly make them look less than inviting. Give screens, touchpads, buttons and other high-touch surfaces a regular wipe-down. It’s a small detail, but customers notice. And a clean machine gets played more.
3. Keep the gaming area clean and uncluttered.
Your gaming area should feel like an intentional part of your establishment, not a space where things happen to get stored. Clear away boxes, extra supplies, empty bottles and anything else that doesn’t belong. Give customers enough room to move around comfortably without feeling crowded.
4. Check the chairs.
A comfortable chair can make a surprisingly big difference in the gaming experience. Make sure chairs are clean, in good condition and positioned so customers can comfortably use the machines. If a chair is broken, wobbly, torn or simply uncomfortable, contact your TO to replace it.
5. Take a look at the lighting.
You want enough light for customers to comfortably see what they’re doing, but you don’t want harsh lighting or glare making it difficult to see the screens. You want to set a mood that’s equal parts comfortable and fun. Stand or sit in the gaming area yourself and take a look. Sometimes you notice things differently when you’re looking at the space as a customer.
6. Get rid of anything that makes the area feel neglected.
Empty glasses, trash, dirty napkins and old food containers can quickly change the feel of a space. Make sure someone is regularly checking the gaming area and clearing away anything customers have left behind.
7. Make sure customers can easily access the machines.
Don’t let tables, chairs, trash cans or other obstacles get in the way. Customers should be able to walk up to a machine, sit down and leave without having to navigate an obstacle course.
8. Keep your signage current.
Take down old promotions and outdated signs. Old signage sends a signal that their gaming experience is an afterthought, not a priority. If you have a current promotion, sweepstakes or giveaway, make sure it’s clearly visible and easy for customers to understand.
Bonus tip: Don’t forget about service.
Just because your gaming customers sit in a different area doesn’t make them forgettable. Make sure your staff regularly checks in on the gaming area to see if anyone needs a drink, food, assistance or anything else. A quick visit from a friendly server can improve the experience, encourage them to stay longer, and create another opportunity to build a relationship with that customer.
The bottom line: Take a few minutes to walk through your gaming area every day. Look at it the way a customer would. If it’s clean, comfortable, accessible and well maintained, you’re giving people one more reason to sit down, play a little longer and come back again.
