Throughout the UK arcades are closing down. Yesterday I saw for myself, the great funland of the Trocadero is being turned into a hotel. All that's left of it is the basement.
I think the problem with arcades is that they try to buy the machines that make the most money and not the machines that attract people. The machines charge £1 per play. The machines should be free and there should be one charge for a whole session. Perhaps even a subscription that lets you play the machines for as long as you wish. Like £8 for a whole day and £24 a month for unlimited use of the arcade.
It is true that games are cheap and people have their own games consoles but people don't have room in their home for a tilting fibreglass motorbike or an in car gaming system. It is the physical hardware that gives the arcade its character. Plus all the lights and scenery and loud noises. The arcade atmosphere is what makes it special.
One day some guy will stand up and deal with this problem. He will make subscription arcades with pool tables and bowling alleys and all the works. One day the arcade will rise again and be the popular profitable premises for joy seekers.
Who will that man be....
