The Benefits of Competitive Socialising for Your Venue

The pub is dead!

We don’t mean to be dramatic, but you can’t deny the fact that the way in which people are socialising has changed.

People’s expectations of entertainment have evolved. The traditional model of a pub which focuses solely on drinking is no longer viable, people want more. Like so much else in modern society, socialisation has been gamified.

Competitive socialising is all about turning your average night out into an epic experience filled with games, challenges and a touch of friendly rivalry. Think pool, ping pong, darts, shuffleboard or even retro arcade games—all paired with your venue’s delicious food and drinks. It’s like your favourite board game night, but with more buzz and less board.

Why Should You Care? (Spoiler: It’s Good for Business)

Let’s break it down:

Keeps the Crowd Coming Back

When was the last time you heard someone say, "Let’s go back to that bar where we just... sat"? Exactly. People want more than just a drink; they want an experience. By offering competitive games, you’re giving them a reason to keep coming back. Whether it’s to improve their score or settle a score, your venue becomes their go-to spot for fun.

Increases Dwell Time (and Spending!)

Here’s a little secret: the longer people stay, the more they spend. Competitive socialising naturally keeps people at your venue longer as they get lost in the game. And guess what? While they’re trying to beat their friend at Supercharged Shuffle, they’re also ordering another round of drinks or grabbing a bite to eat. It’s a win-win!

Attracts a Broader Audience

Not everyone is into the same old night out. By offering a range of games and activities, you’re opening your doors to a diverse crowd. From work parties to first dates and everything in between, competitive socialising appeals to a wide range of people. Plus, it’s a great icebreaker for those awkward first-date vibes!

Extends Your Week

Let’s face it, most venues see the bulk of their foot traffic during the weekend, leaving those early weeknights a bit... lonely. But with games and activities that aren’t solely focused on drinking, you can entice people to visit on those quieter nights. By offering engaging experiences that don’t revolve around booze, you’ll attract a crowd that’s eager to unwind and have fun, making your venue a go-to spot any night of the week. This means more business, more buzz and a fuller house, even on a Tuesday!

Boosts Social Media Presence

If it’s not on Instagram, did it even happen? Competitive socialising is super shareable—think Insta-stories of epic game wins, group selfies by the pool table and TikToks of friendly trash talk. This means free promotion for your venue as guests share their experiences online, drawing in even more curious crowds.

Creates Memorable Experiences

At the end of the day, it’s all about creating memories. Whether it’s a birthday bash, a work event or just a random Tuesday night, people want to remember the good times. By offering unique games and a lively atmosphere, your venue becomes the backdrop for those unforgettable moments.

At Game Volt, we're passionate about creating unforgettable experiences that bring people together. Our innovative range of games are designed to spark friendly competition and foster connections in a fun and engaging way. 

Get in touch with the team if you want to find out more!