Want to seriously up the cool factor and revenue for your arcade for 2025? You’ve come to the right place! We’re going to help you stay ahead of the game with our suggestions for the most popular arcade games. These machines will get the crowd in and the money rolling. Get ready to discover the hottest trends in arcade gaming, along with some smart tips on how to pick the perfect popular arcade games for your business.
Top 7 Most Popular Arcade Games
1. Car Racing Simulators
Ready for an adrenaline rush? Car racing simulators are absolute crowd-pleasers. They offer thrilling, super-realistic racing experiences that attract everyone, from casual players to die-hard racing fans. If you run a high-traffic entertainment hub or a Family Entertainment Center (FEC) that loves to showcase the latest tech, these are a must-have. On average, you could see about $100 to $300 in revenue per machine each day.
Why choose GM Tech’s Car Racing Arcade?
Our models feature:
- Ultra-HD curved displays for maximum immersion
- Force feedback steering that feels like the real thing
- Multiplayer modes that encourage competition (and repeat plays)
Ready to turbocharge your arcade profits? Get the Ultimate Racing Arcade Machines Buying Guide—discover what makes these high-earning simulators a must-have for your business!
2. Retro Multiplayer Cabinets
Who doesn’t love a bit of nostalgia? Retro multiplayer cabinets are the best way to capture classic games and utilize modern design. The magic here is simple: nostalgia combined with the fun of group play really drives repeat visits, making them a staple on any popular arcade games list. These games are perfect for arcades and family entertainment centers. You can expect an average revenue of $80 to $200 per day from these machines.
3. Interactive Rhythm Games
Keep your feet moving! Interactive rhythm games have become tremendously popular, especially because they fit well with social media. Players will share their experiences with their friends and draw attention to your venue. If your operation is a mall location or teen-driven, this is a great style of game. They typically bring in around $70 to $180 in revenue per day.
4. Giant Prize Redemption Games
Everyone loves a chance to win big, right? Giant prize redemption games are incredibly popular and highly profitable. They have a low cost per play but offer the excitement of winning big prizes. This makes them a high-margin choice for arcades and amusement parks. You could be looking at an average daily revenue of $120 to $400 from these machines.
GM Tech’s redemption game advantage:
- Customizable prize levels to control your costs
- Eye-catching LED displays that draw crowds
- Durable construction for non-stop play
Perfect for arcades and amusement parks, these games keep players coming back for “just one more try.”
5. Hybrid Sports Simulators
Hybrid sports simulators are an excellent way to merge traditional gaming and real-world sports. They are becoming a trendy choice due to their ability to promote esports crossover, creating potential for leagues and special events at your venue. Hybrid sports simulators are a perfect match for sports bars and corporate venues looking to add a competitive angle. You can expect an average daily revenue of $90 to $250.
6. Augmented Reality Shooters
Step into the latest trend in gaming: augmented reality (AR) shooter games! These games combine next-gen immersion without needing to put on a big, cumbersome VR headset. They are incredibly digestible and very easy to use. These games are perfect for trampoline parks and VR arcades that want to offer a top-notch experience. They can provide an average daily revenue of $150 to $350.
7. Retro Pinball
Pinball is back and bigger than ever! Demand for modern variations of retro pinball machines is sky-high. Pinball machines provide the collector appeal plus great licensing deals, including themes from your favorite movies, games, and TV shows. These games are a great fit for breweries and boutique arcades that want to capitalize on nostalgia and combine it with modern gaming. Expect daily revenue averaging $60–$150.
GM Tech’s pinball perks:
- Officially licensed themes that fans love
- Advanced anti-cheat technology
- Energy-efficient designs that save on operating costs
Want to cash in on the pinball revival? Read now>> Pinball Arcade Business: Costs, Profit Potential & Key Steps to Success
How to Choose the Right Games for Your Business
Picking the perfect games is super important for your arcade’s success. Here are some key tips to help you make the best choices when building your list of popular arcade games:
Match games to your audience
Think about who you’re trying to attract. For families, classic multiplayer games are usually a hit. Teens often love rhythm games and VR experiences. And for adults, sports simulators and redemption games are often big winners.
Space & budget considerations
Before you buy, think about your space. Do you have room for large simulators, or are more compact options better for you? Also, consider your budget. Are you looking to lease or buy? (We even have a guide on leasing if you need it!).
Placement tips
Where you put your games matters! Some games will excel in high-visibility areas, while others will likely benefit from a dedicated zone of stand-alone players to help with getting into the zone.
Here is a breakdown of some of the most popular arcade games:
| Game Type | Popularity | Best For | Avg. Revenue/Day |
| Car Racing Simulators | High | High-traffic FECs | $100 – $300 |
| Retro Multiplayer Cabinets | Medium-High | Barcades, family centers | $80 – $200 |
| Interactive Rhythm Games | Medium-High | Malls, teen-focused venues | $70 – $180 |
| Giant Prize Redemption Games | High | Arcades, amusement parks | $120 – $400 |
| Hybrid Sports Simulators | Medium | Sports bars, corporate venues | $90 – $250 |
| Augmented Reality Shooters | Medium | Trampoline parks, VR arcades | $150 – $350 |
| Retro Pinball | Medium | Breweries, boutique arcades | $60 – $150 |
Conclusion: Why Partner with GM Tech?
When you decide to work with GM Tech, you are not just buying arcade games; you are getting a partner who is genuinely invested in your success! Our extensive collection of popular arcade games can keep your arcade fresh and competitive in the entertainment space. Here’s why GM Tech is absolutely the right choice for your business:
- Cutting-edge technology that keeps players coming back
- Commercial-grade durability for 24/7 operation
- Custom branding options to match your venue’s style
- Responsive support to minimize downtime
Visit GM Tech today to explore our full catalog of money-making machines. Let’s make 2025 your most profitable year yet!
