Labubu, co-op games, VR: How arcades are keeping patrons hooked

ORIGINAL plushie prizes, cooperative games and tie-ups with popular franchises are among the ways that Singapore’s arcades and gaming venues are trying to entice patrons and stay relevant.

Arcades had their heyday in the 1990s, but declined in popularity from the 2000s with the rise of local area network gaming centres and home video gaming consoles.

But operators of arcades, claw machines and other amusement venues in Singapore say they have been able to attract new customers while maintaining a steady pool of regulars.