Opening an arcade game center or Family Entertainment Center (FEC) requires more than choosing the right machines—it requires strategic arcade space planning, smart traffic flow design, and good zoning. As a global manufacturer and one-stop solution provider, BLEE has helped hundreds of clients plan, design, and build full arcade game centers in shopping malls, amusement centers, and entertainment venues worldwide.
This guide breaks down exactly how much space you need for each type of arcade machine—racing games, shooting game machines, redemption machines, claw machines, VR simulators, and kids’ equipment—so you can design a profitable and high-traffic FEC layout.
1. Recommended Total Area for a Game Center
| Center Type | Ideal Area | Typical Machine Count |
|---|---|---|
| Small Arcade | 80–150 m² | 15–25 machines |
| Medium FEC | 150–400 m² | 25–55 machines |
| Large Entertainment Center | 400–1,000+ m² | 60–150+ machines |
BLEE usually recommends:
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80–150 m² for claw machines + light redemption
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150–300 m² for claw + racing + shooting + VR
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300+ m² for a full entertainment mix including kids’ playground
2. Space Requirements by Game Machine Type
Racing Arcade Machines
High-attraction, high-ROI machines.
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Single racing machine: 1.2m × 1.6m
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Twin racing machine: 1.8m × 1.8m
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4-player racing link setup: 3m × 2.5m
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Walkway clearance: 1m in front, 0.8m on sides
Recommended Layout Tip:
Place racing machines near the entrance — the movement, lights, and engine sound attract customers instantly.
Shooting Game Machines
Includes light-gun shooters, dual-player cabinets, and 55”–65” HD machines.
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2-player shooting cabinet: 1.2m × 1.8m
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4-player shooting theater: 3m × 2.2m
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VR shooting simulator: 2.5m × 2.5m
Note:
Shooting machines need space in front of the cabinet so players can step back comfortably during gameplay.
Claw Machines & Prize Machines
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Standard claw machine (single): 0.9m × 0.9m
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Large prize machine: 1.2m × 1.2m
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Placement spacing: 0.8m between machines
These machines benefit from cluster arrangement (3–10 units together) for visual impact and higher play volume.
Redemption Ticket Machines
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Single unit: 1m × 1.2m
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Kids redemption machines: 0.8m × 1m
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Multi-player redemption: 2–3m width
Tip:
Place redemption machines in high-traffic walkways to generate impulse plays.
VR Zone Setup Requirements
VR equipment generally needs more space:
| VR Type | Required Space |
|---|---|
| VR racing machine | 2.5m × 2.5m |
| VR shooting station | 3m × 3m |
| VR motion simulator | 3m × 3.5m |
Always keep 1 meter of safety buffer around each VR machine.
Kids Zone (Optional but High ROI)
If your FEC includes kids’ play equipment:
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Soft play / playground: 20–80 m²
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Toddler area: 10–20 m²
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Mini rides / kiddie games: 2–5 m² each
Kids zones increase family traffic and average stay time significantly.
3. Walkway & Traffic Flow Design
To maintain comfort and safety:
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Main walkway: 1.8–2.2m
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Side walkway: 1.2–1.5m
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Corners: Keep round traffic loops to avoid crowding
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Entrance area: Recommended 3–5 open meters for visibility
A good flow increases play rate and reduces bottlenecks.
4. Full 150–300 m² FEC Layout Example (BLEE Recommended)
Below is a typical BLEE planning configuration:
Front Row (Entrance Attraction Area)
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4–8 claw machines
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2–4 racing arcade machines
Center Area (High Traffic Machines)
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2–4 shooting game machines
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4–6 redemption ticket games
Back Area (High Engagement)
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VR racing or VR shooting
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1–2 sports games (basketball, air hockey)
Left or Right Wall
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Large claw machine cluster
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Capsule vending machines
Optional Side Rooms
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Kids play zone
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Snack & rest area
BLEE’s designers can convert any empty building floor plan into a 3D FEC layout.
5. How BLEE Helps Investors Plan Their Space
BLEE provides:
✔ Professional 2D/3D design
✔ One-stop sourcing for all arcade machines
✔ Full racing, shooting, VR & claw machine setup plans
✔ Installation guidance + after-sales support
Whether your space is 50 m² or 500 m², BLEE can create a profitable arcade setup.（Learn more about BLEE arcade one-stop solution service,pls click:https://www.bleearcade.com/solutions/）
FAQ (Short version)
1. How much space do I need to start an arcade business?
A small arcade starts at 80–150 m², while a full FEC needs 150–400+ m².
2. How much space does a racing arcade machine require?
A single unit requires around 1.2m × 1.6m with 1m walkway clearance.
3. Do VR machines require special spacing?
Yes, VR racing and VR shooting need 2.5–3m square space plus safety buffer.
4. How many machines can fit into 200 m²?
Typically 25–40 machines depending on mix and walkway design.
5. Can BLEE help design my entire arcade layout?
Yes. BLEE provides free layout planning, machine recommendations, and full FEC solutions.
