Play Meter

surviving spring fever and enjoying it
Spring - and the annual games blossom - are just around the corner.
Operators all around the country will soon be in the market for the
newest, hottest games out. Distributors will be stocking up and preparing
themselves for a warm air surge in games sales. Manufacturers are ready to
break with their flashiest, most hopeful offerings. But before the fever starts,
perhaps a few words of cautionary reminders would help make springtime
more pleasant and profitable for the entire industry:
1. Look before you leap. Don't simply buy a game because it's brand new.
Most manufacturers thoroughly test their games before they are offered for
sale. Your local distributor should have test reports on the various new
games he handles. Ask to see them and compare the results to your
satisfaction.
2. Think in terms of return on investment. How long will that new game
take to pay for itself? Any game that pays for itself in less than a year is
normally considered a good investment regardless of the price tag.
3. Shop around and compare prices. If you're fortunate enough to pay
cash, you can name your price. If not, you can still find some good buys if
you look around carefully.
4. Pay particular attention to warranties and the availability of replace-
ment parts. Down time in seasonal locations can cripple you economically.
5. Don't over- buy. You can always go back and buy another piece if you
think you need it.
6. Consider used games. But make sure you buy them from a distributor
who has a good reputation for refurbishing equipment. Buying "as is" is
risky. The big advantage of used-game-buying - you know what they can do.
7. Flipper games are supposed to be big this summer. Concentrate on your
old standard money-makers. And try dusting off that game you thought had
died and your distributor wouldn't go near with a wooden nickel. You may
be in for a surprise.
7