Dave & Buster’s, the popular arcade and restaurant chain, is shaking up the gaming world once again by adding a new and exciting element to its venues: betting. According to a recent report by Bloomberg, Dave & Buster’s is set to introduce a new form of sports betting at select locations across the country, starting with their flagship store in Times Square, New York City.
This move comes as a response to the growing popularity of sports betting in the United States, following the Supreme Court’s decision to lift the federal ban on sports gambling in 2018. Dave & Buster’s is looking to capitalize on this trend by offering customers the chance to place bets on a variety of sports events, including basketball, football, and even eSports competitions.
The concept is simple: customers can place bets on their favorite teams and players using self-service kiosks installed throughout the venue. The bets can range from traditional wagers, such as point spreads and over/under predictions, to more creative and fun options like player prop bets and live in-game betting.
Dave & Buster’s CEO Kevin Sheehan believes that adding a betting component to their arcades will not only attract new customers but also enhance the overall gaming experience for existing patrons. “We are always looking for ways to innovate and provide our guests with unique and exciting entertainment options,” Sheehan said in a statement. “Introducing sports betting to our venues is the next logical step in our evolution as a leading destination for entertainment and fun.”
In addition to the betting kiosks, Dave & Buster’s will also be launching a mobile app that will allow customers to place bets from anywhere within the venue. The app will also feature live updates on sports scores and odds, as well as exclusive promotions and offers for loyal members.
While some may see this move as a risky gamble for Dave & Buster’s, industry experts believe that the chain is well-positioned to succeed in the sports betting market. With over 130 locations in the United States and Canada, Dave & Buster’s already has a strong customer base of gamers and sports fans who are likely to embrace this new offering.
As the first national arcade chain to offer sports betting, Dave & Buster’s is breaking new ground in the gaming industry. Whether it will pay off in the long run remains to be seen, but one thing is for certain: this bold move is sure to keep customers coming back for more thrills and excitement at Dave & Buster’s arcades.
