Discover how a steampunk-inspired wonderland and a massive mini golf haven can transform your weekend entertainment plans. Ever wondered what it takes to create a compelling attraction? Join us as we celebrate the start of Friday with some weekend excitement, including birthday celebrations and poolside plans. We then whisk you away to the enchanting Mega Park in Quebec, a unique three-level amusement park with impeccable branding and a steampunk design. Find out how the park's interactive map and stunning high-quality videos make exploring its attractions an unforgettable experience.Next, get ready to be amazed by an innovative Family Entertainment Center (FEC) that's redefining mini golf. Imagine an 18,000 square foot course featuring intricate rock formations, out-of-bound areas, and both indoor and outdoor options to accommodate Illinois' unpredictable weather. Learn about the challenging par three and par four holes, inclines, declines, cabanas, full bar, and a restaurant with scenic views that make this FEC a hit for both kids and adults. Plus, we touch on the arcade section for an extra layer of fun. Don't miss out on this episode, packed with insights into these extraordinary attractions!

What if you could transform your home and entertainment experiences in unexpected ways? We leap into the excitement surrounding the grand opening of the Planet PlaySchool Family Entertainment Center at Westfield Garden State Plaza. Brought to life by Kingsman Experience and licensed from Hasbro's PlaySchool, this 20,000 square foot wonderland promises to ignite imaginations with STEAM-based interactive attractions, including a real-life mousetrap game, a Play-Doh imagination station, and a Spirograph art studio. Nostalgia meets modern fun with a branded Easy Bake Cafe and a retail store, ensuring an enchanting experience for kids and families.Switching gears, we highlight the rise of pickleball entertainment venues, starting with Crush Yard, a colossal 47,000 square foot facility near Disney World in Orlando. Featuring 10 indoor pickleball courts, an arcade, private event spaces, and a gourmet restaurant with a bar, this venue is set to become a haven for pickleball enthusiasts. With upcoming locations in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, and Brentwood, Tennessee, Crush Yard is making waves in the sports and entertainment world. Tune in as we discuss the appeal and longevity of pickleball venues, compare indoor and outdoor courts, and share our personal anecdotes about the sport's rapid growth. Don't miss our thoughts on your anticipated reviews, a humorous note about Christine managing some background noise, and our heartfelt send-off encouraging you to stay tuned and keep kicking ass!

Can you imagine a world where traditional paper tickets are a thing of the past, replaced by seamless cashless transactions? Step into the future with us as we explore Intercard’s groundbreaking advancements in the amusement and entertainment industry. Join Lynda Brotherton-Sherrod, Global Marketing Director, on an exclusive virtual tour of their state-of-the-art St. Louis headquarters, where innovation is at the heart of everything they do. From their pioneering debit card system to their unwavering commitment to 24-7 customer support, discover how Intercard is redefining the way we play and pay.Travel back to the late 70s and 80s with Scott Sherrod - CEO, to understand the origins of Intercard, a company that started with copy control systems before venturing into gaming and amusement technology. Hear the fascinating story of overcoming technological and legal hurdles, including restrictive patents and initial resistance to cashless systems. Learn how customer feedback and market demands have driven Intercard’s evolution, leading to major technological milestones like electronic ticketing and loyalty programs in non-casino environments.Get insights into the broader landscape of tech business ownership, with a focus on data security, company culture, and global expansion. Dive into the benefits and challenges of managing a diverse, multilingual workforce, and discover how Intercard’s technical innovations—from Ethernet and Wi-Fi to NFC and cloud solutions—have set them apart. Finally, we discuss the resilience of Eastern European markets, with real-life examples of overcoming adversity. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of technology, entertainment, and global business.

Get ready for an action-packed episode filled with exclusive insights, nostalgic fun, and cutting-edge arcade news! We're thrilled to announce our upcoming interview with Scott Sherrod and Linda Brotherton Sherrod from Intercard, promising a rare behind-the-scenes look at their revolutionary company. Plus, you won't want to miss our chat about Airheads' quirky underwater vending machine that gives swimmers candy for tricks, and a fun tidbit about Sega's crane machine launching Sonic plushies into the air. We also share our thoughts on Putschack's exciting new canned drink collaboration between Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg, Gin and Juice. It's a trip down memory lane and a dive into the future of fun, all in one episode!But that's not all – arcade enthusiasts, rejoice! We've got the latest updates on new machines like the John Wick Pinball by Stern Pinball, Megashot by Jet Games, and Omen of Sorrow: Rising Chaos for Exa Arcadia. We also discuss Smash by LAI Games and share our hands-on experience testing two prototype games, Avian Knights and Asteroids Recharged, at the arcade. Finally, we spotlight new Family Entertainment Centers popping up across North America, from the F1 Arcade in Boston to an Asian barcade in Queens, and many more exciting venues. Whether you're an arcade aficionado or just love fun promotions and summer snacks, this episode is packed with everything you need to stay entertained and informed!

What does it take to win a regatta and then unwind with top-notch wine tasting? Bradden shares his exhilarating experience at the River City Rebellion regatta in Sacramento, where his Rio Salado rowing club team triumphed with standout victories. He then takes us on a scenic tour of the Bay Area’s finest wineries. Meanwhile, Christine brings us tales from her transformative biohacking retreat in Dallas, revealing cutting-edge practices in health optimization, from hyperbaric chambers to stem cell regeneration. She also recounts the electrifying ambiance of a Dallas Stars playoff game, complete with synchronized fan wristbands and interactive jumbotron displays.Ever played mini golf amidst roaring dinosaurs? We dive into the world of a captivating dinosaur-themed mini golf course, showcasing creative designs, animatronic wonders, and lush greenery. This affordable and thrilling attraction is a must-see! Additionally, we critique the ambitious yet flawed Atomic Golf in Las Vegas, a $75 million project that falters due to its poor location and design issues. Our conversation underscores the essential role of strategic planning and location in the success of entertainment ventures. Join us for a comprehensive look at these diverse and exciting activities!

The development of the next generation of audience-based experiences are seen following the developments in theater business. Along with the investment in new chains of Location-Based Entertainment (LBE) venues, and the opportunity for driving the immersive experience business.

Step right up to the shooting gallery of nostalgia and innovation as we join forces with industry expert Kevin Williams to uncover the exciting comeback of gun games. From the vivid flash of carnival booths to the sleek arcades that defined a generation, we journey through the history and resurgence of these thrilling attractions. We tackle the interplay of realism and fun, the implications of violence in gaming, and how industry giants are aiming to revitalize the landscape with experiences that are both familiar and breathtakingly new.Feel the draw of the past as we explore how traditional amusement venues are getting a facelift, marrying the magic of toy brands like Mattel and Hasbro with the buzz of modern family entertainment centers. Witness the shift from the animatronic charm of Chuck E. Cheese to the immersive realms that now beckon the young and the young at heart. We consider how these branded experiences, nestled into urban theme parks and boutique floors in Japanese Hyatt hotels, are rewriting the playbook on what it means to entertain across generations.Lastly, saddle up for a peek into the future as we navigate the evolving tastes of an audience that's outgrowing the kiddie pool and diving into the deep end of social entertainment experiences. We examine the challenges that lie ahead for the industry—will the traditional funfair staple hold up against the tech-savvy demands of today's thrill-seekers? Our conversation with Williams leaves us pondering the innovative twists that could redefine our quest for leisure, sowing the seeds for next week's exploration of what lies beyond the horizon of amusement.

What if a DIY intergalactic theme park could teach you about parallel universes? This week, we embark on a whirlwind tour of some of the most whimsical attractions across the U.S. First, I share a personal update about Christine's absence and my thrilling plans for a rowing regatta and wine tasting in Sacramento. Then, brace yourself for a hilarious trip down memory lane with the retro-style Roller Kingdom PSA from Reno, Nevada. The main highlight this week is Multiverse Land in St. Petersburg, Florida—a quirky creation by Dr. Good Vibes and his stepdaughter Dean Smiley, combining education, art, and community engagement. Is their charmingly outdated website a nostalgic gem or just plain old? Tune in and decide for yourself.Next stop is Lane Park in Old Town, Scottsdale, a vibrant indoor space filled with interactive games, food, and drinks, where you can try your hand at real ice curling, duck pin bowling, and even axe throwing—if you can get past their non-functional website, that is. We also introduce The Lab at Area 15 in Las Vegas, a cutting-edge venue for virtual and augmented reality experiences and a narrative-driven scavenger hunt called Particle Quest. And don't miss our latest Imagineering episode and exclusive interview with Scott Sherratt, CEO of Intercard, coming next week. Hit that subscribe button and stay tuned for more thrilling adventures!

Ready for a rollercoaster of updates and insights? Join me as I navigate solo on this episode of the LBX Daily Show while Christine is away. From my thrilling outing to Arena 23 with Barry from Fun Across America, where we tackled some hiccups with state-of-the-art sports simulators, to uncovering the magic behind "CBeebies Rainbow Adventure" at London's Westfield Shopping Mall. This immersive experience designed for young kids promises enchanting storytelling and playful interactions, but the sparse details on their website left me with a few raised eyebrows.But that's not all; I'm also breaking down Legoland's groundbreaking checkout-free shopping system set to launch in 2024 and discussing how this tech could reshape high-traffic retail environments, citing examples from Merlin Entertainment and Six Flags. Plus, find out how Meow Wolf's Portal Pass is revolutionizing repeat visits and hear about Harrah's Resort's ingenious "Funner California" marketing campaign. Packed with humor and creativity, it draws parallels to viral hits from Ryan Reynolds and Dollar Shave Club. Buckle up for an episode filled with fun, innovation, and marketing genius!

Can a former Chuck E. Cheese really be the next big thing in coworking? We explore Aryeh Bookbinder's remarkable journey from nostalgic family fun center to the innovative "Fever Dream Coworking" space in Toronto. At just 25, Aryeh has taken a bold step in transforming a beloved childhood venue into a unique, productive environment that blends work with play. We'll dive into how this quirky space, complete with pizza and coffee for $45 a pop, has captivated the interest of over 100 professionals, and hear from Adam Pratt in "Arcade Corner" about the untapped potential for similar setups in arcades and Family Entertainment Centers.Shifting gears, we'll bring you the latest buzz from the arcade gaming world. Get the lowdown on LAI Games' adrenaline-pumping off-road racer, Smash or Smash DX, and our firsthand impressions of its thrilling motion features. Plus, we’ll take you to the IAAPA Expo Asia in Bangkok, spotlighting the Nova Blast home-bound cabinet by Unico USA. To wrap up, learn about Disney Springs' new guest shipping station, an innovative service that's making it easier for Walt Disney World visitors to send their magical purchases straight home. This episode is packed with creative ideas and the latest gaming updates you won't want to miss!

Get ready to explore the cutting-edge world of immersive entertainment and multi-sport arenas in today's jam-packed episode! We kick off with a tantalizing teaser about the debut of the Social Immersive Entertainment Expo (S-I-E-X), co-located with the EAG Expo in Europe from January 14th to 16th. Picture this: a unique event spotlighting the latest in immersive entertainment, from virtual reality experiences to competitive play technologies. Plus, we shine the spotlight on Full Dome Pro's groundbreaking Balloon Simulator that promises an unforgettable 360-degree hot air balloon adventure. Could this be the next big thing for family entertainment centers? Imagine the thrill of a virtual flight complemented with a dining experience high above the ground.Switching gears, we dive into a bold review of Arena 23, America's pioneering indoor multi-sport entertainment arena. Imagine honing your skills on high-tech simulators, from QB1 football to Bot Boxer. Christine weighs in with her evolving perspective on VR and its potential to offer experiences like skiing to those who might not otherwise have access. However, we don't shy away from critique—we question the practicality of Arena 23’s throughput and ponder the unusual choice of a cereal bar as its sole food and beverage option, particularly for evening visitors. Stick around as we wrap up with promises of more thrilling content and an intriguing sound-off with Kevin Williams that you won't want to miss. Stay tuned and keep kicking ass!

Continuing the trend in the entertainment and leisure sector for major upheavals during these financial and global conditions, we saw the next series of Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) sweeping the market, along with some major disturbances.

Unlock the secrets behind the explosive resurgence of card battler games in arcades that's captivating players globally. We've seen a dramatic shift in engagement and gameplay, and in our latest episode, we peel back the layers of this intriguing phenomenon. From IC chips to magnetic strips, we'll guide you through the high-tech world that's reigniting the passion for collectible cards, and reveal how a community of traders and collectors are reshaping the social fabric of gaming culture.The entertainment landscape is a constantly shifting battleground, and our conversation takes you right to the front lines. We recount the highs and lows of a new Manchester venue's debut, complete with falling air conditioning units and the internet's unforgiving mockery, only to rise from the ashes. Witness the strategic chess moves by titans like Lotto Group and Bandai Namco, navigating the Chinese market's ebbs and flows, and launching innovative entertainment experiences that redefine what it means to play.To cap off this episode, we journey to the seaside, where a historic pier's bold new revenue strategy is just the tip of the iceberg in the evolution of location-based entertainment. We'll speculate on the potential windfall of the burgeoning location-based virtual reality market, forecasted to be worth billions. With tech giants and Hollywood powerhouses vying for a slice of the pie, we cast our gaze forward to an industry primed for a renaissance, where every visit to an entertainment venue could transport you to another world. Join us for this riveting discussion that will leave you eager for the next play.

Ever fantasized about jet-setting with your four-legged friend in a lap of luxury? Bark Air is making that dream a reality, and we've got the scoop on how they're transforming pet travel into a first-class experience. From bespoke check-in services to in-flight pampering complete with doggy passports, your pooch might just rack up more frequent flier miles than you. We chat candidly about the lengths pet owners go to spoil their furry pals, and the genius of tapping into the pet industry's gold mine. Switching from opulence in the sky to raucous fun on the ground, we reminisce about the classic bingo hall before it got a nightclub makeover. Climb Ball Legends is turning heads and raising pulses with its blend of gaming and physical activity, suitable for all ages. Then, we share our bewilderment and amusement at Bingo Loco's wild take on the pastime, complete with dance-offs and confetti canons. As we wrap, remember to capture your weekend adventures and share them with us—your snapshot could be the star of our next episode. Happy Memorial Day weekend, and here's to living large and playing even larger!

Prepare to be whisked away to the whimsical world of the Hallmark Christmas Experience in Kansas City, where holiday magic is just the beginning. Feel the joy as we explore each corner of this festive fairy-tale come to life, from the twinkling lights of the Christmas market to the ice-skating rink that beckons with a chilly embrace. Every detail is designed to enchant, with workshops, celebrity appearances, and a live countdown of romantic milestones that could spark your very own Hallmark moment. This chapter is a love letter to the spirit of the season and an invitation to make your holiday unforgettable.Dive into the digital revolution with us as Mattel teams up with Outright Games, bringing to life video game adventures for Matchbox, Monster High, and Barbie enthusiasts. Witness how these iconic toys transcend the playroom to conquer the realm of pixels and interactive storylines. Reflecting on Mattel's storied history with the Intellivision console, we consider the challenges of shifting from tangible playthings to virtual escapades. Join us as we analyze how major players like Mattel and Hasbro are crafting new dimensions for their beloved franchises and invite you to follow along for more ground-breaking journeys and heartwarming tales.

Embark on an enlightening excursion with Bob Cooney, the maverick shaping the frontiers of virtual reality and location-based entertainment. His odyssey, from an Inc 500 launch to the dizzying heights of a NASDAQ IPO, exemplifies a life dedicated to the art of the possible. As Bob navigating from the charms of France, pulls back the curtain on the complexities of VR distribution, revealing the inception of the VR Arcade Game Summit. His tale intertwines with his weekly webinar escapades on location-based VR, where serendipitous encounters with developers and the unexpected triumph of , the virtual trade show, underscore the power of innovation in times of adversity.In a landscape where the virtual intertwines with the visceral, Bob's and my experiences converge in a symphony of technological evolution. We tackle the production hurdles of live news amidst Melbourne's stringent lockdowns, and reflect on the burgeoning metaverse, VR, AR, and AI – a cornucopia of acronyms that hold the key to future realities. Our dialogue orbits around the gravitational pull of community and communication as catalysts for growth within the VR industry, while I unpack my method of staying on the crest of the tech wave through a relentless pursuit of knowledge and discovery.The episode unfurls a tapestry of personal transformation, tracing Bob's path from New York's turbulence to a life unshackled by the past. He shares the profound symbology of his tattoos and the wisdom distilled from "The Four Agreements," weaving a narrative that champions empathy in innovation. As we wrap up, the mission is clear: to harness the transformative essence of VR in reshaping perceptions and fostering personal evolution. So, tune in, share, and subscribe for a journey that promises to expand minds and inspire action as we traverse the fascinating landscape of virtual reality. Goodbye, everyone – and remember, keep kicking ass in all you do.

We’re not just clowning around; Chuck E. Cheese's partnership with Comic Relief US for the Red Nose Day campaign is a testament to the joy of giving back. This episode will have you considering the impact of laughter on philanthropy and the crucial role of corporate social responsibility. We also step into the enchanting realm of Hole in Wand Mini Golf in Chester, UK, and share how this magical mini-golf experience is casting spells of joy and community connection.The backboard is heating up with Adam from Arcade Heroes as we relive the slam-dunk nostalgia of NBA Jam in our Wednesday Arcade Corner. We're swishing through the details of the new NBA Jam-like arcade game that's reviving the high-flying excitement with the legendary voice of Tim Kitzrow. From analyzing the current game's roster and features to Raw Thrills' slam into the sports arcade game scene, this conversation is a full-court press of enthusiasm and anticipation. Don't miss out on our play-by-play before the game hits arcades for testing, just in time for the Memorial Day weekend festivities.

Step onto the greens of innovation as we unveil the wonders of Cornhole Golf, the brainchild of Joe Vivirito and his son Joey! This episode tees off at Mars Bethel, where a celestial blend of mini-golf and cornhole awaits, complete with UFOs and otherworldly challenges. We share the vibrant atmosphere of this patent-pending game, its captivating layout, and the enthusiastic reception from the community at its grand opening. Prepare to be whisked away on an escapade that reshapes the gaming landscape, offering a glimpse into the potential future of leisurely sports.Then, immerse yourself in our exploration of gastronomy and leisure as we uncover the magic behind a new wave pool, an innovation set to bring oceanic waves to your backyard. But that's only the beginning; hold onto your forks as we saunter through the theatrical rebellion against fine dining norms at Absurdities. Here, a six-course meal is merely the first course of an evening that transports you through whimsical spaces, ending in a secretive, speakeasy-style bar. As your hosts, CB and BW, we're wrapping up with a flourish, leaving you with a promise of more heart-pumping content that'll inspire you to surf the next wave of entertainment, whether it's on a board or with a beanbag in hand.

This marks an important point in the history of our news and views service. A momentous period of some thirty years covering developments in the digital Out-of-Home Entertainment landscape, as well as being instrumental in offering observations that have, in their way, shaped these developments. We now look at this landmark in the service’s progression.

Are we merely peddling coins for play, or do we aim to craft memories that resonate beyond the arcade's flashing lights? Together with Kevin Williams, we navigate the shifting landscapes of the amusement industry, where the thrill of potential earnings is coloring the canvas of our gaming experiences. As we unravel Dave and Buster's trailblazing app that marries high scores with high stakes, we confront the traditional business model with a bold reimagining that could redefine the arcade experience.The specter of gambling looms large in the realm of family entertainment centers, stirring a media maelstrom over children and the lure of skill-based gaming machines. This episode peels back the layers of this delicate debate, exploring our industry's metamorphosis from mechanical slots to the digital era's interactive marvels. Virtual reality, immersive gaming, and the dancing shadows of international gambling laws provide a backdrop against which we discuss the urgent need for crystal-clear definitions and a moral compass to steer us through these uncharted waters.Artificial intelligence: the silent partner in our entertainment tapestry, weaving threads of innovation through marketing, customer service, and data analysis. We probe the delicate balance AI strikes between efficiency and authenticity as it permeates every aspect of our industry, from the creative spark that ignites new game ideas to the operational gears turning behind the scenes. Our discussion takes you on a journey through AI's transformative potential, challenging us to harness its power responsibly as we sculpt the future of entertainment in the arcade and beyond.