Whether you’re a blackjack or a poker enthusiast, there’s one fact that every poker player knows: the game does not require any physical skills.

And no, we don’t mean whether you need luck or skill to win a game. Those looking to improve at poker might look up guides on how to play 3 card poker. On the other hand, roulette players may try to improve their Martingale strategy by reading more online. 

However, none of these things are affected by the physical way you play the game. Sure, body language could give you away in poker, but most of the time it doesn’t really matter how you lay down your cards. This is also the difference between arcades and casinos. One relies on the skill while the other one almost purely relies on luck.

Arcade casinos could change that by combining the two. Most casinos have already experimented with some forms of arcade casino games. However, how big of a chance is there of arcade casinos rising to prominence, and why? What would those games even look like? And would it be a profitable business model for the casino itself? Let’s review.

Will arcade casinos ever become a reality?

To some extent, they already have. As mentioned, some casinos have experimented with implementing arcade-style games into their establishments or websites. 

However, those casinos haven’t fully committed to arcade-style gaming. We have yet to see one completely filled out with arcade casino games.

Regardless, it’s understandable that a casino fully operated by arcade games may not be the goal everyone is aiming for. Maybe they’re comfortable with having just a few games to fill out the criteria and focusing on the layout of a traditional casino.

There could be many reasons for that. The first reason being they believe that traditional casinos bring more profit than arcade casinos – more on that topic later. They may also be more inclined to attract customers who are looking for an authentic casino experience. The one we see all the time in movies and TV shows.

On the other hand, it could also be because they don’t really understand what constitutes an arcade casino game. Let’s unravel that topic.

What do arcade casino games look like?

Arcade casino games come in many shapes and sizes. Some may mimic arcade classics with a gambling twist on them. Others may look to apply a more skillful element to casino classics such as slots.

For example, let’s take a look at Scientific Gaming’s Space Invaders. This arcade casino game mostly retains all the characteristics a traditional slot machine would. However, there’s an element of skill that may help you to win the slots more easily. 

It’s important to keep in mind, though, that the company has decided to incorporate the element of skill in bonus rounds rather than change the traditional luck-based functioning of a slot machine.

Would arcade casinos succeed?

The main goal of arcade casinos is to attract a younger audience that may not be so interested in traditional casino gaming. This concept may also appeal to players who are looking for new, innovative ways to enjoy the casino and earn some money.

Bringing in a skill element to these mostly luck-based games could also attract those looking to test their skills. Much like arcade gamers were dedicated to beating games and setting high scores back in the ‘90s, arcade casino players could show that same level of dedication today.

Those who already know their skill level may see unique opportunities to profit from their craft. FPS enjoyers, in particular, might look to test how much profit their aiming skills can bring them in an arcade casino.

Overall, there is ample reason for arcade casinos to blow up in popularity. Unfortunately, the casino industry may not have started capitalizing on the idea. However, there is no doubt that we’re going to be looking at some innovative ideas and designs over the next few years.