Do arcade machines need coins?

No. All of our machines are set to free play, so guests can simply walk up and play.

What power do hired arcade machines need?

Most machines run on a standard 13 amp socket. If you are planning an outdoor event, let us know so we can talk through power and cover.

Do you deliver outside London?

Yes. We deliver, set up and collect anywhere in the UK.

Will my venue get safety paperwork?

Yes. Machines are PAT-tested and insured, and a risk assessment and method statement are supplied once booked.

Arcade Machine Hire: The Complete UK Guide

Arcade machine hire is one of the simplest ways to give an event a focal point. A row of glowing cabinets gives guests something to do, something to talk about and a reason to stay in the room. If you have never booked games before, though, it can be hard to know where to start. This guide explains what you actually get, how to choose, and how the booking process works from first enquiry to collection.

What arcade machine hire includes

When you hire from us, you are not just renting a box with a screen. Each booking covers delivery, set-up and collection anywhere in the UK. Our team brings the machines to your venue, positions them where you want them, checks they are working and then returns at the end of the hire to take everything away.

A few things come as standard:

Free play. Machines are set to free play, so there are no coins, tokens or card readers for guests to worry about.
PAT-tested equipment. Every machine is electrically tested before it goes out.
Insurance. Our equipment is insured, and a risk assessment and method statement are supplied once booked, which most venues will ask for.
Simple power. Most machines run on a standard 13 amp socket.

The main types of game

Our range falls into a handful of families, and many events mix two or three of them.

Retro cabinets

Classic uprights such as Pac-Man, Space Invaders and Street Fighter, along with pinball tables and a jukebox. These suit guests who grew up with arcades and they look great lined up together. See the retro arcade machine hire range for the full line-up.

Giant and supersized games

Giant Pac-Man, Giant Space Invaders, Mario Kart and the Moto GP twin are big, loud and very visible. They work best in larger rooms, marquees and exhibition halls where they can act as a centrepiece.

Interactive and digital games

Reaction games like Batak, Whack A Mole, Catch It and Strike A Light are quick to play and easy to understand, which keeps queues moving. Some, like Crack the Code, can also capture data for marketing.

Simulators, prize games and bar games

Racing simulators, golf and football sims and VR offer a more immersive experience. Prize cranes, cash grabbers, arcade basketball and boxing machines bring a competitive edge, while air hockey, pool and table football give a relaxed, social feel.

How to choose the right mix

Rather than starting with a list of favourite games, start with your guests and your space. Ask yourself three questions:

Who is coming? A family fun day, a black-tie dinner and a trade show stand each call for different games. Retro cabinets appeal across ages, while simulators and competitive games suit groups who enjoy a challenge.
How long will people play? If guests are dropping in for a few minutes between talks, choose quick games with short rounds. If the games are the main entertainment for an evening, a broader mix with some longer experiences works well.
How much room do you have? Measure the floor area, but also check doorways, corridors, lifts and stairs on the route in. Our arcade machine size guide lists dimensions so you can plan properly.

As a rough approach, aim for variety of play style rather than several versions of the same thing. One reaction game, one head-to-head game and one classic cabinet will entertain more people than three similar shooters.

How booking works

The process is straightforward and you can do most of it online.

Check availability. Our booking system shows live availability, so you can see what is free on your date on the availability page.
Look at prices. Prices are live on the site too and depend on the machines, the date and how long you need them. The prices page is the best place to compare.
Send your details. Tell us the venue, date, timings and any access information. If anything is unusual, such as a first-floor room or an outdoor space, mention it at this stage.
Confirm and receive paperwork. Once booked, you will receive the risk assessment and method statement for your venue.

Preparing your venue

A little preparation makes the day run smoothly. Speak to your venue early and confirm:

Where vehicles can unload and how far it is to the room.
Whether there are steps, narrow doors or a lift, and the lift's size.
Where the sockets are, so machines can be placed without long cable runs across walkways.
The times the room is available for set-up and when everything must be cleared.

Indoor spaces are simplest. If you are planning an outdoor or marquee event, the machines will need a dry, level, covered area and a suitable power supply.

Making it your own with branding

Many of our machines can be custom branded, and because we print in-house, branding is part of the same booking rather than a separate supplier to manage. Branded screens and wraps are popular for product launches, exhibitions and company events. You can read more on the branded arcade game hire page.

On the day and afterwards

Once the machines are in place and tested, they are ready for guests. Because everything is on free play, there is nothing to hand out or top up. At the end of your event our team returns to collect, so you are not left with equipment to look after.

If you want a sense of how other set-ups have looked, browse the gallery for layout ideas. And if you are still weighing up options, the simplest next step is to check your date and start building a shortlist. Arcade machine hire is at its best when the games suit the crowd, so choose with your guests in mind and the rest tends to take care of itself.