While the sound of clinking quarters brings back fond memories for anyone who grew up going to arcades, spending and running out of money probably wasn’t the best part of the experience. If you’ve ever watched the timer run down while you dug around your pockets to continue a game, you know a unique kind of panic!

Going to a free play arcade is a remedy; you can enjoy all the fun without the fear of your games ending before you’re ready. Arcades with machines set to free play typically require a flat fee or rental so that you can enjoy gaming for a set period of time.

Free play does change the experience slightly, so be sure you go in ready to make the most of your time at the arcade. House of Arcade guests can rent our free play arcade venue for birthday parties, family reunions, and other gatherings; here’s how you can ensure it’s an unforgettable experience for you and your guests!

1. Set Time Limits for Popular Games

Nothing is more frustrating than waiting for your turn, only to find you’ve wasted most of your day because one person hogged the pinball machine all afternoon. Kids (and let’s face it, some adults) can be blissfully unaware of other people around them when they’re engrossed in an engaging adventure.

Making time slots or setting time limits for popular free play arcade games ensures that more people get a turn. You can make appropriate exceptions—like if someone is genuinely advancing through the game, they can continue until they “die.” But if they lose all of their lives, they have to give up their turn to someone else.

Related: Our Favorite Children’s Arcade Games (That You Can Play Right Here!)

2. Host a Tournament

When the cost of each gameplay is removed at a free play arcade, you can lose some of the intrinsic value of each turn. While that’s not necessarily a bad thing if you just want to enjoy the experience of the game, it does make the experience less competitive.

If you have a group of people playing together at a free play arcade, a tournament can be a great way to kick up the competition. You can take turns competing for the highest score in many classic arcade game consoles, or you can to a bracket-style tournament with head-to-head competitions such as air hockey or foosball.

3. Focus on Your Gaming Skills

In some instances, the first two tips won’t apply to your free play arcade experience. Maybe you’re not with a large group, or no one is jostling for a turn with the game you’re enjoying. In that case, you have the opportunity to hone in on your gaming skills using your unlimited turns.

Now’s your chance to focus on that level that’s impossible to beat without burning through your cash. You can work on your timing with the buttons or figure out the secret to annihilating that boss. And when you do finally see the results you want, be sure to document and celebrate your success! (We have complimentary ice cream and soda that are perfect for just that occasion.

Related: Explore the Ultimate Airbnb with a Game Room in Bloomington, IL

Book Our Free Play Arcade in Bloomington-Normal Today

Enjoy a one-of-a-kind free play arcade experience by booking with us today! Rent out for the night or for a longer stay depending on your needs. Book now to reserve your preferred time and date!