Reporting to our podcast host Randy Chilton from Bora Bora, The Game Exchange of Colorado’s Rich Babich talked about his decades-long career in the industry in an interview released this week. Babich is currently celebrating more than 50 years with his wife Bev on a cruise that embarked in Los Angeles and will culminate in Vancouver after months circumnavigating much of the Pacific, with major stops in New Zealand, Australia, Japan and Alaska. Babich explained that today, half of his business is commercial – selling to FECs and operators – and the other half is for the home market. “I…
Author: Matt Harding
The glow-in-the-dark Monster Mini Golf chain closed out 2025 with nine new locations, the company reported, as well as 16 secured franchise agreements. They said it was the most successful year in their 21-year history. “This past year, we’ve proven that families are still dying for high-energy, immersive entertainment,” said Christopher King, CEO of Monster Entertainment. “Our innovative and affordable entertainment model engages guests of all ages while delivering a fun lifestyle and returns for our franchisees. Our growth is a testament to our operators who share our passion for creating undeniable, memorable moments with family and friends.” New locations…
The fifth Calgary location of the bowling alley chain Splitsville is coming to the Canadian city this fall, reports Daily Hive. Twenty new bowling lanes, including VIP lanes, are expected. There will also be a large arcade, full-service bar and restaurant. “Opening our fifth location in Calgary is an exciting milestone for us,” said Pat Haggerty, president of Splitsville Bowl. Existing locations in Calgary include Creekside, Highfield, Glamorgan and Meridian. Learn more at www.splitsvillebowl.ca.
Zero Latency VR just announced a new licensing deal with Sony Pictures to bring the blockbuster Jumanji franchise to its next-generation immersive VR format. More details are coming soon, but the game is expected to come out prior to the release of the latest Jumanji film installment, which is set for Dec. 11. “This is a dream partnership for us,” said Zero Latency CEO Tim Ruse. “Stepping into the game is a core part of our DNA. Jumanji is funny, intense and unpredictable, and is built around the concept of shared adventure. It throws a team into a world that…
Incredible Technologies’ Silver Strike Bowling: League Night is now available for pre-order on a first-come, first-served basis, the company reported. The first wave of games will ship in early April. “The industry has been waiting for something new, and we worked hard to deliver,” said Adam Kramer, president of IT’s amusement division. “League Night gives operators the chance to offer their customers fresh, exciting entertainment – served just how they like it – from a brand they love.” The unit retails for $4,799 and includes a year of content releases – monthly contest and bundles, new alleys, unique virtual equipment,…
Retrocade will launch tomorrow, Feb. 5, on Apple Arcade, bringing timeless hits like Galaga, Pac-Man, Asteriods and Space Invaders to the at-home Apple platform (you can play on iPhone, iPad, Apple TV or Mac). Other games that’ll be featured include Bubble Bobble, Breakout and Centipede. Retrocade supports Bluetooth controllers so players can ditch touchscreens in favor of a more classic feel. Players will need an ongoing subscription to play.
Right Brain Brewery in Traverse City will play host to the Michigan Pinball State Championship, which will run from Feb. 13-15. Featuring more than 40 pinball machines and arcade games, the three-day competition will feature a classics tournament, the main event with various divisions, and a doubles tournament. “Pinheads from across the state – this is your weekend,” said Right Brain Brewery. “Come compete, spectate or just fall in love with pinball all over again. Valentine’s Day weekend just became a statewide pinball pilgrimage.” Visit www.rightbrainbrewery.com to learn more.
Kevin Naughton, a Hall of Fame member and past president of the New England Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, died on Jan. 26, NJAA reported. Naughton was the third generation of his family to lead Naughton Insurance. The association also shared his obituary, which indicated a funeral will be held on Feb. 3 at 8:30 a.m. at Rebello Funeral Home and Crematory at 901 Broadway in East Providence, Rhode Island. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the RI Community Food Bank (200 Niantic Avenue, Providence, RI 02907).
Foundations Entertainment University, now in its 25th year, will have its first event of 2026 March 16-17 in Las Vegas. The education program is offered in conjunction with the Amusement Expo. Attendees get free admission to the trade show floor. The two-day curriculum includes hands-on training for both new FEC developers and seasoned operators and covers “all aspects of market and financial feasibility, planning, design, financing, development, marketing and managing a location-based entertainment business for long-term success,” organizers wrote. Click here to register or go to www.foundationsuniversity.com to learn more.
AAMA recently announced that its VR Connect Virtual Reality Equipment Sanitation Guide for Location-Based Entertainment Businesses was a key document used by ASTM International in the development of two new industry standards which were published in 2025. The document will serve as a “how-to reference guide” for businesses adopting these standards. “This significant achievement marks an important milestone for both the amusement industry and location-based entertainment businesses, establishing comprehensive hygiene practices for virtual reality equipment in entertainment settings,” AAMA wrote. ASTM International, formerly known as the American Society for Testing and Materials, is “renowned for developing and publishing voluntary consensus…