Top 10 Must-Have Arcade Machines for Your Family Entertainment Center (FEC)

Running a successful Family Entertainment Center (FEC) in 2025 means offering a mix of fun, excitement, and inclusivity for all ages. The right combination of arcade machines can turn your space into a high-traffic, high-profit destination. Whether you’re just starting or upgrading your location, choosing the right amusement equipment for kids and adults is critical to customer satisfaction and return visits.

Here’s our expert-curated list of the Top 10 must-have arcade machines to consider when planning or upgrading your FEC.

1. Basketball Shooting Machines (Kids & Adults)

• A timeless classic that appeals to both children and grown-ups.
• Competitive and easy-to-learn gameplay.
• Perfect for single or multiplayer modes.

✅ Great for: casual fun, mini tournaments, repeat plays.

2. 3D Racing Simulators

• Realistic driving experience with motion seats and surround sound.
• Head-to-head play increases engagement.
• Popular among teens and young adults.

✅ Great for: thrilling, immersive experiences in the teen/adult zone.

3. Claw Crane Machines

• Low-cost, high-revenue redemption games.
• Can be stocked with plush toys, electronics, or seasonal items.
• Appeals to all age groups, especially children and couples.

✅ Great for: entrance areas, quick-play zones, high ROI.

4. Interactive Parent-Child Games

• Designed for joint participation between parents and children.
• Encourages bonding while playing simple and fun games.
• Often includes touchscreens, lights, and gentle mechanics.

✅ Great for: family zones and boosting time-on-site.

5. Educational & Puzzle Arcade Games

• Encourages kids’ problem-solving while having fun.
• Popular in FECs with a learning-focused layout.
• Can feature color matching, math challenges, or logic puzzles.

✅ Great for: children aged 5–10, especially in early education-friendly centers.

6. Soft Play Redemption Machines

• Soft-ball shooting or bouncing challenges suitable for young children.
• Safe and rewarding with ticket or gift redemption systems.

✅ Great for: ages 3–7, and building confidence in young players.

7. Shooting Games (Water & Gun)

• High-energy two-player and multi-player shooting games.
• Features like vibration guns, light effects, and themed environments.
• Loved by kids and competitive adults alike.

✅ Great for: action zones, teenage groups, and arcade tournaments.

8. Air Hockey Tables

• Easy to play, quick to start, and highly competitive.
• Requires minimal maintenance.
• Ideal for all ages and walk-in customers.

✅ Great for: casual duels, social play, and high turnover.

9. Redemption Ticket Games (Whack-a-Mole, Spinners, etc.)

• Simple gameplay with addictive reward mechanics.
• Keep players coming back for tickets and gifts.
• Suitable for kids aged 4–12.

✅ Great for: keeping children engaged longer and encouraging repeat visits.

10. VR & AR Experience Stations

• Immersive gameplay using cutting-edge technology.
• Higher price per play = premium profit.
• Suitable for older kids, teens, and young adults.

✅ Great for: creating a “wow” factor and standing out from competitors.

Age-Based Machine Allocation Guide

📌 Pro Tip: Rotate machine placements and update prizes regularly to keep players engaged and returning.