Top Sports Bar Games to Boost Fun, Loyalty, and Revenue in Your Venue

emmet63
May 8
4 min read

Updated: 5 days ago

Today’s sports bars aren’t just about cold drinks and big screens—they're about delivering experiences. Whether your customers are watching the game, celebrating after work, or simply enjoying a night out, the right sports bar games can turn casual visits into unforgettable memories (and repeat business).

In this article, we’ll explore why sports bar games are essential, what the most popular options are, and how they can increase foot traffic, boost engagement, and add serious value to your space.

Why Sports Bar Games Matter More Than Ever

Modern bar-goers expect more than just a drink and a seat. They’re looking for interaction, competition, and shared moments. That’s where sports bar games come in. These games encourage customers to stay longer, spend more, and bring friends with them next time.

Whether it’s two coworkers facing off in a game of darts or a group cheering over a heated beer pong round, sports bar games turn passive visitors into active participants.

What Makes a Great Sports Bar Game?

Not all games are created equal. The best sports bar games share a few key characteristics:

Easy to learn, hard to master Games should be approachable for newcomers but offer enough depth to keep regulars coming back.
Social and interactive They should encourage teamwork, banter, and friendly competition.
Visually engaging Bright colors, movement, and sound help draw in new players and create a fun atmosphere.
Space-conscious Many bars operate in limited square footage, so compact, high-engagement games are ideal.

When done right, sports bar games become more than entertainment—they become the core of the bar’s energy.

The Most Popular Types of Sports Bar Games

Here’s a rundown of today’s most loved sports bar games and why they work:

Electronic Dart Machines

Electronic darts have long been a crowd favorite. A modern arcade dart machine tracks scores automatically, supports online multiplayer, and adds LED lighting and sound effects for an immersive experience. Darts are simple, competitive, and perfect for players of all skill levels.

Billiards or Pool Tables

A timeless choice. While they take up space, pool tables are a staple in many sports bars and offer long gameplay sessions for small groups.

Arcade Cabinets

From retro classics like Pac-Man to head-to-head racing games, arcade machines offer both nostalgia and action. These are great for adding variety and attracting different age groups.

Beer Pong Stations

A must-have for younger crowds. Beer pong is the ultimate party game that blends drinking and friendly rivalry. Set up permanent beer pong tables or use portable kits for events and tournaments.

Tabletop Game Zones

Jenga, Cards Against Humanity, Monopoly—these games cater to more relaxed groups looking to socialize. They’re affordable, easy to set up, and encourage longer stays.

Mobile-Integrated Quiz or Trivia Games

Some modern sports bar games link to guests’ phones for trivia nights, polls, or mini-games. This light interaction adds fun without requiring a major hardware setup.

How to Choose the Right Sports Bar Games for Your Venue

When selecting your mix of sports bar games, keep the following in mind:

Space & Layout

Do you have room for a full-sized pool table? If not, electronic dartboards or tabletop games are better choices.

Target Audience

Younger crowds might lean toward beer pong and arcade cabinets, while corporate groups may prefer darts or trivia.

Game Turnover

Fast-paced games like darts allow more players per hour, keeping the bar dynamic and inclusive.

Aesthetic Fit

Choose games that align with your bar’s theme. A rustic bar may favor wooden games and classic darts, while a modern venue might opt for sleek, illuminated machines.

How Sports Bar Games Drive Revenue

Let’s talk ROI. Sports bar games don’t just entertain—they pay off in real ways.

Increased Dwell Time The longer customers stay, the more they spend. A 20-minute dart game = 1–2 more drinks.
Group Engagement Games are natural conversation starters and icebreakers, making guests feel at home and likely to return.
Event Opportunities Host tournaments, themed nights, or loyalty challenges based around your games to create buzz.
Social Media Content Customers love to share game wins or action shots online—especially if your games have lights, screens, and leaderboards. Free exposure!
Upselling Opportunities Offer drink discounts for game players, premium packages for private competitions, or combo deals tied to score-based achievements.

Case Studies: Bars Winning with Sports Bar Games

✅ The Corner Shot Pub – Chicago

After installing two dart machines and a beer pong area, The Corner Shot saw a 27% increase in weeknight revenue and doubled Friday engagement within three months.

✅ Kingpin’s Sports Bar – London

By adding rotating trivia nights and free Jenga at tables, Kingpin’s increased drink orders per table and gained a loyal following from office groups.

These real-world examples prove that investing in the right sports bar games builds community and profit.

Why Choose DARTMAN’s Interactive Game Solutions?

At DARTMAN, we specialize in turning bar spaces into buzzing entertainment hubs. Our interactive sports bar games solutions are designed to:

✅ Attract all age groups

✅ Fit in a wide range of venue sizes

✅ Include LED features, sound effects, and customizable possibility

✅ Connect to player accounts for ranking, events, and loyalty

✅ Require minimal maintenance and offer long-term durability

Whether you're opening a new bar or revamping an old one, DARTMAN helps you get games that engage and convert.

Final Thoughts: Build a Better Bar With Better Games

In today’s competitive nightlife and hospitality scene, your bar needs more than good drinks. It needs energy. It needs connection. And it needs the right sports bar games to create moments people want to come back for.

With the right setup, your bar becomes more than a venue—it becomes an experience.

Ready to Get in the Game?

Bring energy, excitement, and community into your space with high-impact sports bar games. From electronic darts to beer pong setups and beyond, DARTMAN has the right solutions for your venue’s success.

Visit dartmangames.com to discover how we can help you build your ideal lineup of sports bar games today.