How to Convince Your Partner to Invest in Skill-Based Gaming

A surprising truth: Over 30% of business owners who invest in skill-based gaming machines say they first faced pushback from their own partners.

If you're in the same boat, you're not alone. Whether your partner is worried about legal clarity, profitability, or just skeptical about how games of skills fit into your operations, this guide is designed to help. In Texas, where skill gaming has carved out a unique legal niche distinct from chance games, the opportunity is growing fast. But getting everyone on board is step one.

Let’s explore how to frame this conversation and build a compelling, fact-based case that makes your business partner see skill-based gaming machines not as a risk, but as a smart investment.

What Are Skill Games and Why Should Businesses Care?

Skill games, also referred to as skill-based gaming machines, require the player to use judgment, strategy, timing, or coordination to influence the game’s outcome. This separates them from slot machines or other chance-based games that rely purely on luck.

These games of skills feature a variety of themes, from reflex-testing challenges to puzzle-solving adventures. Unlike other forms of entertainment that feel passive, skill games create active engagement and repeat visitors.

Texas businesses are increasingly embracing these machines not just for their novelty, but because they’re working. Venues offering skill machines have seen improved customer retention, longer in-store dwell times, and overall higher customer satisfaction.

Explore a deeper breakdown in our Skill-Based Gaming Guide.

Objection #1: “Is This Even Legal in Texas?”

This is often the first and most valid concern. The short answer? Yes, when done right.

Texas prohibits most forms of chance-based gaming, but skill games operate in a different space. They are not categorized the same way under Texas law because the outcome depends on the player’s actions, not on random chance.

Many successful venues follow municipal and state guidelines to ensure that machines demonstrate a genuine skill component. Examples of good practices include:

• Offering games that involve reflex, strategy, or decision-making
• Avoiding machines that mimic the function of chance-based devices
• Partnering with experienced Texas-based providers who understand how to align game formats with these guidelines

Learn more in our guide on Skill-Based Gaming in Texas: A Rising Opportunity.

Objection #2: “Is There Real Business Potential Here?”

Absolutely, when done with the right partner.

Adding skill-based gaming machines to your venue isn’t just about putting a machine in a corner and hoping for the best. It’s about increasing foot traffic, keeping customers engaged longer, and making smart use of underutilized space.

Why Texas business owners are leaning in?

• Skill gaming increases dwell time in restaurants, bars, and truck stops.
• It offers a low-overhead way to enhance customer experience.
• Players return to improve their performance, unlike with chance-based machines.

See how one title, Princess of the Nile, helped boost visibility and engagement in select locations.

Objection #3: “What If It Doesn’t Work for Us?”

This concern is common, and totally fair. This is where customization and strategic planning come into play. The key to success isn’t about volume; it’s about thoughtful implementation. Businesses that succeed with skill game machines tend to:

• Select machine themes that match their customer demographic
• Test performance and customer interest before expanding
• Use game rotation and analytics to keep things fresh
• Adjusting placement and machine mix over time

The team at Peak Entertainment offers consultation to help evaluate location viability and match your business with the right machines.

For a thorough breakdown of how to start small and scale smartly, visit our Owner’s Guide to Buying Skill-Based Gaming Machines in Texas.

Objection #4: “What’s the ROI?”

While exact numbers vary (and we don’t promise figures), successful businesses focus on strategy over volume.

You don’t need rows of machines, just the right machines. In fact, too many machines can reduce revenue per machine and overwhelm customers. We covered this in detail in our piece on why more machines doesn’t mean more profits.

Instead, your pitch should include:

• Strategic placement
• Game rotation to maintain novelty
• Loyalty or replay incentives
• Partnering with experienced providers

Objection #5: “Is This Going to Take Up Too Much Space?”

Not necessarily. In fact, thoughtful machine placement is one of the most underused tools in skill-based gaming.

These machines can turn overlooked corners, transitional spaces, or break areas into interactive touchpoints. One or two well-placed machines can often make a bigger impact than a large setup. Placement near waiting areas, self-serve sections, or casual lounge spaces often draws more interaction than expected.

Peak Entertainment’s insight on VGT operators explains how strategic setups have made a difference in even small-footprint venues.

How to Frame the Conversation with Your Partner

1. Lead with Context

Highlight the success stories. Point to businesses that increased engagement and foot traffic after adding skill game machines. Link your pitch to industry trends, especially the growth across Texas.

2. Address the Legal Concerns Head-On

Use examples of businesses that operate under municipal and state guidelines. Reinforce that with proper vetting and trusted partners, this is a compliant, viable offering.

3. Show the Value Beyond Revenue

If your partner is numbers-focused, show how these machines can turn quiet corners into profit zones. If they value brand reputation, emphasize customer satisfaction and engagement.

4. Propose a Pilot

Propose a limited-run test, perhaps one or two high-performing machines near high-traffic zones. Use that period to gather feedback and results before expanding.

Want to see which games are trending? Our Midnight Wolf Revenue Analysis might help seal the case.

Conclusion: Start with a Shared Vision

You and your partner may have different perspectives, but at the core is a shared goal: building a stronger, more engaging, and future-ready business.

Skill-based gaming offers a legal, tested, and exciting way to achieve that. The key is to start small, think strategically, and align your investment with the customer experience you both want to deliver.

If you’re ready to explore your options, reach out to our team or learn more about how we help businesses like yours thrive.

 

FAQs

1. What is a skill game machine?

A skill game machine is an interactive gaming device where the outcome is determined by a player’s abilities—like speed, timing, or decision-making—rather than luck.

2. Are skill games legal in Texas?

Yes. Under Texas law, skill games are permitted if they rely on player input rather than chance. Businesses must comply with all municipal and state guidelines.

3. What types of businesses use skill gaming in Texas?

From truck stops and bars to restaurants and convenience stores, many businesses across Texas are adding skill-based gaming machines to boost engagement and increase customer retention.

4. How can I convince my business partner to invest in skill-based gaming?

Focus on facts, present the growing demand, clarify legality, and propose a test run. Frame it as a strategic opportunity, not just a trend.

5. Where can I find skill game machines near me?

Contacting experienced providers like Peak Entertainment can help you access proven machines and get the support you need for a successful setup.

6. Are skill games the same as slot machines?

No. Unlike slots, skill games require input from players that affects the outcome. That’s why they’re not considered chance-based and fall into a different category under Texas law