Arcade games come in all shapes and sizes—from retro classics to modern immersive experiences. But if you're thinking about starting a small arcade or adding machines to your shop, mall corner, or entertainment space, one key question is:
👉 What arcade game makes the most money?
Let’s dive into the top earners, why they rake in the cash, and how you can use that info to make smart investments in your arcade.
🏆 #1: Claw Machines (Prize Grabbers)
Without a doubt, claw machines are among the most profitable arcade games worldwide.
Why They’re So Profitable:
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Low cost per play, high volume of users
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Kids and adults both love the challenge
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Can be stocked with trending toys, plushies, or gadgets
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Great for malls, convenience stores, and tourist areas
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High margin: toys can cost $1–$3, but users pay $1+ per attempt
🤑 Potential Earnings: $300–$2,000+ per month per machine depending on foot traffic and location
📦 Bonus tip: You can buy small claw machines for under $1,000 and place them in multiple locations for passive income.
🎯 #2: Basketball Arcade Machines
Basketball games are popular in arcades and entertainment centers because they’re:
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Easy to understand
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Addictive (people want to beat their own score)
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Great for groups or competitions
🤑 Potential Earnings: $500–$1,500/month
Especially during peak hours or events
🕹️ #3: Retro Multigame Cabinets (e.g., Pandora’s Box, Raspberry Pi Cabinets)
These machines house hundreds or even thousands of retro games from NES, SNES, Sega, and more.
Why They Earn:
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Nostalgic appeal for adults
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Cost-efficient: one machine, many games
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Compact size = great for small spaces
🤑 Potential Earnings: $300–$1,200/month
Low maintenance + wide appeal = great ROI
🏎️ #4: Racing Simulators (e.g., Daytona USA, Mario Kart Arcade GP)
High-end racing games are very popular in high-traffic arcades and family entertainment centers.
Why They Earn:
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Multiplayer = friends compete together
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Motion seats & immersive design attract attention
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Fast turnover per play
🤑 Potential Earnings: $1,000–$3,000/month
But they’re more expensive to buy and maintain.
👾 #5: Redemption Games (e.g., Skee-Ball, Coin Pusher, Ticket Spinners)
These games are about earning tickets to redeem prizes—super popular with kids and families.
Why They Earn:
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Simple, fun, and addictive
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Kids keep coming back to save up tickets
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Can pair with a prize wall or vending machine
🤑 Potential Earnings: $500–$2,000+/month
Especially profitable during weekends and school holidays
💡 So Which Should You Choose?
| Game Type | Cost | Profitability | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Claw Machines | Low–Med | ★★★★★ | Malls, shops, family areas |
| Retro Cabinets | Low | ★★★★☆ | Bars, cafes, gamers |
| Basketball Games | Med | ★★★★☆ | Gyms, arcades, youth centers |
| Racing Games | High | ★★★★☆ | Full arcades, tourist zones |
| Redemption Games | Med | ★★★★★ | Kids’ areas, party centers |
Final Thoughts
The most consistently profitable arcade game is the claw machine, thanks to its low cost and high play volume. But a balanced arcade with variety + crowd appeal will maximize your revenue. Start with a few high-performers, track earnings, and scale from there.
🎮 Want to Start Small?
Explore high-quality, compact claw machines, retro cabinets, and multigame arcades at YouweiTrade.com — all with free shipping and perfect for small business owners or side hustlers.