The short answer is yes — a growing number of arcade operators are using anti-cheat devices. Based on my field work across 200+ venues in 30+ countries, approximately 35% of arcades and game rooms have installed some form of anti-cheat protection as of 2026. That number has doubled since 2022 and is expected to reach 60% by 2028.
Who Is Using Anti-Cheat Devices
The operators who invest in anti-cheat protection fall into three categories. First, venues that have experienced a significant cheating incident — a single loss of $5,000+ that forced them to take action. About 45% of our customers fall into this category. Second, venues that are proactively protecting their investment — typically chains or large venues with 50+ machines that cannot afford to lose revenue to undetected cheating. About 35% of our customers are in this category. Third, venues that are following industry recommendations — new venues that are building security into their operations from day one. About 20% of our customers are in this category.
Where Anti-Cheat Adoption Is Highest
Adoption rates vary by region. In Southeast Asia, approximately 50% of fish table venues have some form of anti-cheat protection. In the United States, the rate is lower at approximately 25%, but it is growing rapidly as fish table and 8-liner venues become more common. In Europe, adoption is around 30%, concentrated in coin pusher-heavy venues and FECs.
What the Industry Is Saying
At arcade industry conferences and in operator forums, anti-cheat is one of the most discussed topics in 2025-2026. Operators who have installed protection are sharing their results — average revenue increases of 15-25% after installation — and operators who have not yet installed are asking questions about cost, installation, and effectiveness. The industry consensus is moving toward anti-cheat as a standard operating expense, similar to insurance or security cameras.
If your arcade is showing signs of want to understand how anti-cheat adoption compares to industry peers, send me a message with your machine model and a photo of your setup. I will do a quick remote check for free. Every device comes with a money-back guarantee, official invoice, express shipping, and 1-on-1 technical support.
WhatsApp / WeChat / Phone: +86 158 1582 1587 — Engineer Wang
To discuss the best anti-cheat strategy for your specific arcade setup, message me directly. I offer a free remote diagnostic session.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Am I behind the industry if I have not installed anti-cheat yet?
A: No. 65% of venues are still unprotected. But the gap is closing fast. The question is whether you want to be ahead of the curve or catch up later.
Q: How do I know if my competitors are using anti-cheat?
A: If your competitors’ machines appear to be more profitable than yours with similar player traffic, they may have installed anti-cheat protection.
Q: Does using anti-cheat give me a competitive advantage?
A: Yes. A venue with anti-cheat protection keeps 15-25% more of its machine revenue. Over time, this compounds into a significant competitive advantage.
Q: Are there any industry standards for anti-cheat devices?
A: Not yet. The industry is still emerging. CE certification and the device specifications described in this series are the best quality indicators available.