Choosing arcade game hire comes down to three things: the right mix of machines for your guests, enough space and power at the venue, and a supplier who plans access properly. Get those right and the games zone runs itself. This checklist walks through each one.
Key takeaways
- Choose a mix of games that suits the ages at your event.
- Check space, sockets and access routes before confirming machine numbers.
- Ask for PAT tested equipment, insurance and a clear setup time.
Which arcade games suit your guests?
Start with who is coming. At a wedding with lots of children, a claw machine, air hockey and a basketball game keep them busy while adults enjoy the evening. At a corporate event, racing simulators and retro cabinets bring out the competitive side.
For mixed ages, include a few classics everyone knows. Pac-Man, Space Invaders and table football work across generations and are easy to pick up.
Think about how long each game takes. Quick games such as basketball and air hockey keep queues moving, while longer racing games suit smaller events or a tournament format with set turns.
- Children: claw machines, basketball, air hockey
- Teenagers: dance machines, racing games
- Adults: retro cabinets, pinball, table football
- Corporate: racing simulators and leaderboards
What questions should you ask the supplier?
A good supplier will ask about your venue and guests before recommending machines. If they simply send a list, ask more questions.
- Are all machines PAT tested and covered by insurance?
- How many sockets do the machines need, and where?
- How long will setup and collection take?
- Will someone stay on site to reset machines?
- Can you send photos of the exact machines?
- What happens if a machine stops working?
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What venue checks do you need for arcade games?
Measure doorways, lifts and corridors. Some cabinets are tall and heavy, and a narrow service lift can rule them out. Tell the supplier about any stairs, ramps or long carries from the car park.
Check power. Several machines on one socket can trip a circuit, so ask the venue where sockets are and how they are split. Most machines need to be placed near walls for this reason.
Tip from our team: Ask the venue for a floor plan with sockets marked. It makes it far easier to plan the games zone properly.
Where should the games zone go?
Put the arcade games in a space guests pass through, but away from the main dance floor and speeches. A side room, a corner near the bar or a foyer often works well.
At Asian weddings, keep the zone clear of the stage and the route for the couple's entrance. You do not want queues crossing the path of the bride and groom or the dhol players.
For corporate events, a games zone near the bar or networking area encourages people to mix across teams. For birthdays at home, a garage or conservatory can work, as long as the floor is level and the machines are protected from damp.
What are the red flags when booking arcade games?
Watch out for suppliers who cannot provide PAT test certificates or insurance documents. Vague answers about setup times or access usually mean problems on the day.
Also be careful with very cheap offers that do not include delivery or collection. Moving arcade machines is hard work, and those costs have to show up somewhere.
Another red flag is a supplier who will not commit to a delivery window. At busy hotels, several suppliers share the loading bay, and a late arrival can push back the whole setup.
How far ahead should you book arcade game hire?
For December corporate parties and summer weddings, book two to four months ahead. Popular machines such as racing simulators go quickly.
Once you know your venue and guest numbers, send us an enquiry. We will suggest the right mix, check access and plan the games alongside your other entertainment.
Want a quote for arcade games?
Free, no obligation. Tell us your date and venue.
Frequently asked questions
Are arcade games suitable for weddings?
Yes, especially at weddings with lots of children or younger guests. They give people something to do between meal courses and speeches. Keep them in a separate area away from the stage.
How long does it take to set up arcade machines?
It depends on the number of machines and access, but setup usually takes an hour or two. It should be done before guests arrive. Confirm access times with the venue.
Do arcade machines need an attendant?
For small parties, machines can run without one. For large events, an attendant helps manage queues and reset machines. Ask for this in your quote.
Can we have a leaderboard for a corporate event?
Yes, many suppliers can set up competitions with scoreboards and prizes. It works well for team events and product launches. Ask when you enquire.
Plan your arcade zone
Share your venue and guest details and we will send a free, no-obligation quote.
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Written by the Party Central events team. Prices mentioned are starting points only. Exact pricing depends on availability, your exact requirements, time on site and location. Party Central is a trading name of Booking Central Ltd.
