Best Locations for Skill Games in Texas

Not every location is created equal when it comes to skill games. After placing machines in dozens of Texas businesses, we've learned what works - and what doesn't. Here's our honest breakdown of different location types.

Location Rankings (Best to Good)

1. Bars & Nightclubs - Excellent

Bars are consistently our top performers. Here's why:

• Extended dwell time: Customers stay for hours, not minutes
• Social atmosphere: Players enjoy the entertainment value
• Disposable income: Bar patrons are already spending on entertainment
• Late hours: More operating hours means more revenue
• Repeat customers: Regulars become regular players

Typical revenue per machine: $3,000-6,000/month

Ideal machine count: 4-8 machines

2. Dedicated Game Rooms - Excellent (with caveats)

Game rooms can be exceptional performers, but require more effort:

• Destination location: People come specifically to play
• Higher machine count: Can support 10-20+ machines
• Marketing required: Need to actively promote the location
• Right demographics: Best in areas with limited entertainment options

Typical revenue per machine: $2,500-5,000/month

Ideal machine count: 8-20 machines

3. Restaurants with Bar Areas - Very Good

Restaurants that have a dedicated bar or lounge area perform well:

• Mixed clientele: Captures both diners and bar patrons
• Family-friendly option: Some restaurants allow all ages to play
• Steady traffic: Consistent customer flow
• Cross-selling: Players often order food and drinks

Typical revenue per machine: $2,000-4,000/month

Ideal machine count: 2-4 machines

4. Convenience Stores - Good

C-stores provide steady, reliable income with less flash:

• High foot traffic: Lots of daily customers
• Quick plays: Shorter sessions but more frequent
• Lottery crossover: Lottery players often try skill games
• 24/7 potential: Extended hours boost revenue

Typical revenue per machine: $1,500-3,000/month

Ideal machine count: 2-4 machines

5. Truck Stops - Good

Truck stops offer a unique opportunity:

• Captive audience: Drivers need entertainment during breaks
• Cash-heavy customers: Many truckers prefer cash transactions
• 24/7 operation: Revenue around the clock
• Less competition: Fewer entertainment options on the road

Typical revenue per machine: $2,000-3,500/month

Ideal machine count: 3-6 machines

Location Characteristics That Matter

Must-Haves

• Foot traffic: At least 100+ customers daily
• Space: Room for machines without crowding
• Power outlets: Dedicated circuits preferred
• Visibility: Machines should be seen from entrance/main area
• Security: Camera coverage and secure location

Nice-to-Haves

• Extended hours: Later closing time = more revenue
• Seating nearby: Comfortable players play longer
• Good lighting: Not too bright, not too dark
• WiFi available: For machine monitoring and updates

Red Flags

• Very low traffic: Under 50 customers daily
• Short customer visits: Quick in-and-out businesses
• Strict demographics: Exclusively elderly or young children
• Poor location visibility: Hidden from main traffic

Placement Within Your Location

Where you put machines matters almost as much as what location you're in:

Best Placements

• Near the bar area (for bars/restaurants)
• Visible from the entrance
• Along a wall with good foot traffic
• Near other entertainment (pool tables, darts)

Avoid

• Back corners with no visibility
• Near bathrooms (noise/traffic issues)
• Blocking emergency exits
• In direct sunlight (screen glare)

Success Stories by Location Type

"We put 4 machines in our sports bar. They've become a bigger attraction than our pool tables."

- Mike R., Sports Bar Owner, Dallas

"I was skeptical about skill games in my convenience store, but they've been earning more than my lottery commission."

- Sarah T., C-Store Owner, San Antonio