Arcade operators carefully select pricing models to balance profitability and player satisfaction. The two most common approaches are per-play pricing (pay per game) and time-based pricing (unlimited play for a set duration).

Per-play pricing works well for high-demand games, as players pay per attempt. This model maximizes revenue from popular titles but may discourage casual players. Time-based pricing attracts groups and families by offering unlimited play during a session, increasing overall foot traffic.

Operators also consider factors like location (tourist spots often use per-play), game type (VR experiences suit time-based), and customer demographics. Many modern arcades blend both models, using per-play for premium games and time-based for general admission.

Data analytics help operators optimize pricing, tracking metrics like average play time and revenue per machine. The goal is finding the sweet spot where players feel they're getting value while the arcade maintains healthy profits. Seasonal adjustments and membership programs further refine these pricing strategies.