Ticket Arcade Game vs Redemption: Which Fits Your Venue?
By M&P Amusement | Published: 2026-10-20
Category: Comparisons
Compare ticket arcade games like Ticket Monster and Plants vs. Zombies to redemption machines. Learn which fits your venue's space, budget, and audience.
Quick Answer
Choose a ticket arcade game like Ticket Monster or Plants vs. Zombies if you want high player engagement and ticket payouts that drive repeat play, rather than a pure redemption machine that simply dispenses tickets based on skill or chance.
Ticket Arcade Games vs. Redemption Machines: The Core Difference
Ticket arcade games are interactive experiences where players actively control the outcome, like aiming a Peashooter or spinning a monster's tongue. Redemption machines often rely on chance or simple skill, and the player's primary goal is earning tickets to redeem for prizes.
The key trade-off is engagement versus simplicity. Ticket arcade games tend to attract repeat players who enjoy the challenge, while redemption machines may appeal to younger or casual players looking for quick rewards.
Your venue's space and budget also matter. Ticket arcade games often have a larger footprint and higher upfront cost, but they can generate more excitement and longer play sessions.
Player Appeal and Revenue Potential
Ticket arcade games with a skill element, like the Plants vs. Zombies cabinet, can create a loyal following. Players return to improve their scores and win bigger ticket payouts. This can lead to higher per-machine revenue over time.
Redemption machines, on the other hand, are often easier to play and can appeal to a broader audience, including families with young children. They may have lower per-play revenue but can attract more players overall.
Consider your target demographic: if your venue is family-focused, a mix of both may be ideal. If you cater to teens and adults, skill-based ticket games might be more profitable.
Operational Considerations
Ticket arcade games that pay out tickets require regular refilling and maintenance to avoid downtime. Redemption machines may have simpler ticket dispensing but still need periodic checks.
Progressive features, like those on Ticket Monster, can increase player excitement but may require additional programming or monitoring to manage the jackpot.
Space and power requirements vary. Be sure to measure your floor area and check power outlets before purchasing any arcade game.
Trade-Offs to Consider
- Player Engagement: Ticket arcade games like Plants vs. Zombies offer interactive skill-based play that can keep players engaged longer. Redemption machines are simpler and may appeal to casual players. If your goal is to build a regular following, prioritize skill-based ticket games.
- Revenue Model: Skill-based games may yield higher revenue per play due to longer sessions, while redemption machines may attract more players per hour. Analyze your foot traffic and average play time. Estimate potential daily revenue based on your venue's traffic to decide which model aligns with your targets.
- Space and Budget: Ticket arcade games often require more floor space and a higher upfront investment. Redemption machines can be more compact and budget-friendly, but may not offer the same excitement. Measure your available space and set a budget range before comparing specific models.
- Maintenance: Ticket dispensing mechanisms need regular refills and cleaning to avoid jams. Progressive features may require extra monitoring. Redemption machines may have similar needs but simpler mechanics. Factor in ongoing maintenance time and costs when choosing between the two.
Product Facts
- Plants Vs. Zombies: The Last Stand Ticket Arcade Game: Sega's Plants vs. Zombies The Last Stand game puts the player at the control of a cabinet-mounted Peashooter that fires peas to stop advancing waves of zombies. This hands-on skill element makes it a strong draw for players who enjoy action and challenge, potentially increasing play time and repeat visits.
Plants Vs. Zombies: The Last Stand Ticket Arcade Game - Ticket Monster Ticket Arcade Game: Ticket Monster is the same great game as the ever-popular Big Bass Wheel with a different look and is now equipped with a progressive feature. The progressive feature can create a jackpot excitement that encourages more plays, while the familiar Big Bass Wheel mechanics ensure proven revenue performance.
Ticket Monster Ticket Arcade Game
Which Should You Choose?
Best For
- Venues targeting teens and adults who enjoy skill-based challenges and repeat play
- Operators with space and budget for larger cabinets who want high player engagement
Not For
- Small venues with limited floor space where a compact redemption machine is more practical
- Family-oriented locations where a simpler, faster-play redemption game may appeal to a wider age range
