Sponsored by Intercard!
Sponsored by Alan-1!

On this week's episode we argue for an upscale shift in prize experiences, a sober view on tariffs and show strategy, and a sharper ROI lens on VR. Big brands face 2026 pressure as multi-attraction venues, collectible-forward cranes, and arena-scale content set the pace.

• Upscaling prize centers with premium collectibles and frictionless redemption
• Tariff volatility, shutdown impacts, and investor caution
• Six Flags activism, Merlin restructuring, and 2026 readiness
• Single-attraction fatigue vs multi-experience competitive socializing
• Topgolf delays and expansion math under scrutiny
• Electric Playhouse Vegas missteps in a crowded market
• New-wave cranes, live play by app, and adult-oriented redemption
• Samsung XR reaction and the search for a killer app
• Godzilla non-VR ROI test and headset necessity
• Blending VR with pinball, retro, and social play for resilience
• Netflix’s KPop Demon Hunters and LBE potential
• Cloud outage preparedness and offline contingencies
• London Coin-Op signals: rhythm games, micro cranes, enclosed pushers
• Show calendar choices and format rethink for exhibitors

Please make sure that you're subscribed to the Stinger Report and the Entertainment Social Arena!

Subscribe and visit LBX Collective for more!

Investors should note the rising trend of social shooting experiences, blending gamification, hospitality, and competition. Brands like Clays and PAN are innovating with arcade-style and traditional clay pigeon shooting, appealing to diverse demographics and private events. Platform developers like Laser Shot and HD Sportsuite are creating digital and simulated shooting games for entertainment venues. Historical roots from amusement games like ‘Shoot Away’ highlight longstanding popularity. The sector emphasizes group engagement, branded experiences, and technology-driven registration. Overall, this sector presents growth opportunities in innovative, social, and immersive shooting entertainment formats within the location-based entertainment market.

Subscribe and visit LBX Collective for more!

Sponsored by Intercard!
Sponsored by Alan-1!

On this week's episode we take a fast tour through the latest wins, misses, and pivots in location-based entertainment. We weigh connected pinball, branded "pour" games, and why good branding beats big square footage.

• IAAPA Expo preview with LBX Collective's booth speakeasy details
• Give Kids The World Golf tourney, 1K, and 5K fundraisers
• Arcade Heroes launches an Arcade Hall of Fame
• Scorbit 2.0 and the rise of connected pinball
• Branded pour games and sponsorship-ready IP
• 24/7 I‑Drive arcade and unlimited play pricing risk
• Global openings from Singapore to London and Austria
• Pixel floors and active play trends in FECs
• Pac-Man Live booking friction and repeatability
• Electric Playhouse Vegas bankruptcy context
• VR arcade pivots to Nightwave synthwave model
• Closures, layoffs, and belt-tightening across parks

Join the LBX Collective team at Footprints From The Heart on Thursday morning at IAAPA!

Subscribe and visit LBX Collective for more!