{"id":2128259,"date":"2025-11-01T03:10:22","date_gmt":"2025-11-01T03:10:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/celebrity.land\/en\/?p=2128259"},"modified":"2025-11-01T03:10:22","modified_gmt":"2025-11-01T03:10:22","slug":"ice-innovative-concepts-in-entertainment-november-2025-replay-magazine","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/celebrity.land\/en\/ice-innovative-concepts-in-entertainment-november-2025-replay-magazine\/","title":{"rendered":"ICE \u2013 Innovative Concepts in Entertainment \u2013 November 2025 \u2013 RePlay Magazine"},"content":{"rendered":"
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ICE Continues\u2008Quest for Games that Bring Players & Revenue<\/em><\/h2>\n
Innovative Concepts in Entertainment (ICE) has always prided itself on making unique family fun games built for reliability with operator-first design and a timeless play appeal. An example of that is their Super Chexx, first introduced into the coin-op market in 1982 and still being made at ICE\u2019s factory in Clarence, New York. (That\u2019s over 40 years!)<\/p>\n
In this tradition, the company has added four very different games to their catalog this year: Smash N Win, NBA Baller, Neon Bowling and Stop the Drop. A brand-new game called Odin\u2019s Hammer Strike will also debut this month at IAAPA Expo.<\/p>\n
Each of these games taps into different segments, but ICE says they\u2019re all \u201cskill based and can be enjoyed from age 7 to 70.\u201d This year, ICE has continued to focus on the family entertainment sector, keeping their portfolio of offerings \u201ccompetitive, sports-minded and physically interactive.<\/p>\nSmash N Win on location, right next to the company\u2019s Tons of Tickets.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n
Smash N Win: A \u201cMerchandiser-First\u201d Product<\/h2>\n
ICE said their new Smash N Win has \u201credefined the merchandiser category.\u201d It\u2019s a simple, intuitive experience that allows players to win physical balls as prizes. The gameplay combines the instant gratification of a crane with the skill-based mastery of timing games. Players wait until the right moment to \u201csmash\u201d their way into the win zone.<\/p>\n
For operators, they say the game can run as a prize merchandiser or as a hybrid ticket redemption game. It can also be operated solely as a ticket redemption game with a ball self-reload system that allows no balls to be dispensed.<\/p>\n
By engineering flexibility into the core product, ICE said they\u2019ve ensured the game can succeed in different floor mixes, whether at a high-volume FEC such as Dave and Buster\u2019s (where you can find a unit in every store), a route operation stop such as a cinema, or a mid-size bowling alley.<\/p>\n
Operators are loving it, says ICE. Chip O\u2019Hara, the president of Midwest Coin Concepts, said Smash N Win was \u201ca big hit right out of the gate and continues to be a top earning game in each location. We have just installed one in a sports bar \u2013 a street location \u2013 with great results as well.\u201d<\/p>\n
Rich Del Vecchio of Kids Quest and Cyber Quest, based in Plymouth, Minnesota, said, \u201cSmash N Win is a fast-paced, vibrant and well-designed merchandiser game. It offers great flexibility by rewarding players with tickets and high-quality merchandise prizes, including the chance to win collectible balls from their favorite basketball teams. It\u2019s a fantastic addition to any arcade floor \u2013 another great skill-based game from ICE that keeps players engaged and encourages repeat play. Even better, we achieved a full ROI within just three months!\u201d<\/p>\n
The NBA-branded edition of Smash N Win added the licensed collectible element to the game, making it instantly recognizable to NBA fans. There is also a monster ball-branded version. The company plans on obtaining additional IP titles in the future to ensure this title never goes out of style.<\/p>\n
NBA Baller: A Modern Twist on Basketball<\/h3>\n
Basketball has always been a reliable anchor in arcades, but with NBA Baller, ICE aimed to \u201crefresh the genre by layering in modern presentation and NBA licensing while preserving the casual yet competitive gameplay.\u201d The game also allows players to win a 7\u201d NBA-licensed basketball if they beat the high score. The cabinet features sleek NBA branding, LED effects, and shooting mechanics that rewards accuracy and speed.<\/p>\n
For players, the appeal is obvious: step up and test your skills in a high-energy game trying to win a real basketball with a logo of your favorite pro team. For operators, NBA Baller is another example of ICE taking a proven product to the next level.<\/p>\n
NBA Baller has the same specs as ICE\u2019s NBA Hoops Matrix, too. \u201cWe wanted Baller to match the size of Hoops Matrix so it can seamlessly complement a location\u2019s existing sports wall,\u201d explained Ryan Coppola, the company\u2019s international salesman. \u201cThe goal isn\u2019t just to provide variety by offering a different type of prize by giving players the chance to win a ball, but also to draw attention back to the NBA Hoops games already on site.\u201d<\/p>\n
Shawn Hetzel, game room director of Frankie\u2019s Fun Park in Huntersville, North Carolina, echoed Coppola\u2019s comments: \u201cNBA Baller has been a great addition to our arcade. Our NBA Hoops games have always done exceptionally well for us, and the NBA Baller machines continue that trend when added next to our existing NBA Hoops.\u201d<\/p>\n
Together, ICE\u2019s CEO Joe Coppola, said Smash N Win and NBA Baller show the company\u2019s two-pronged strategy this year \u2013 prize-driven merchandisers that create instant engagement (Smash N Win) and sports-driven skill games that act as long-term floor anchors (NBA Baller).<\/p>\n
\u201cThis balance is a big differentiator,\u201d he added. \u201cSome manufacturers specialize only in sports or only in flashy prize machines, but ICE delivered both this year \u2013 each engineered with operator flexibility and broad player appeal. That makes it easier for locations to build a floor mix around ICE titles alone, knowing they cover multiple revenue categories.\u201d<\/p>\n
Another recurring theme in ICE\u2019s product line this year is configurability. Smash N Win allows operators to fine-tune payout percentages and ball quantities. NBA Baller offers adjustable difficulty and other settings that let venues cater to different audiences, whether it\u2019s families, competitive teens or adult leagues.<\/p>\n
Bowling Reimagined<\/h3>\n
Unlike a traditional bowling alley, where players need long lanes, heavy balls, and rented shoes, ICE\u2019s Neon Bowling packs the fun into a compact, brightly-lit and futuristic experience. ICE said the game takes all the best aspects of traditional bowling \u2013 skill, accuracy and the thrill of knocking down pins \u2013 and transforms it into \u201csomething electric.\u201d<\/p>\n
Neon Bowling lives up to its name with glowing pins, LED lights that react to every roll, and a sleek, high-energy design that feels more like a laser party than a bowling alley. Every strike and spare is celebrated with light shows that \u201cgive the game the feel of an experience, not just a score.\u201d<\/p>\n
Another key difference is accessibility. Traditional bowling requires a lot of space, but Neon Bowling fits neatly into arcades, FECs and even small venues. Players use smaller balls, perfect for kids and adults alike, so the game is fast, approachable and fun for all ages, ICE notes.<\/p>\n
\u201cNeon Bowling is very low hassle from a logistics standpoint for the operator compared to other bowling attractions,\u201d said Ryan Coppola. \u201cThe game ships in three pieces and each lane can be assembled in under two hours with no crazy installation costs. Past that, the air compressor system used to lift and reset the pins has proved to be very low maintenance and operator friendly.\u201d<\/p>\n
What truly sets Neon Bowling apart, the company says, is its arcade spirit. Instead of a long, 10-frame match, it\u2019s designed for quick, exciting rounds that keep players moving. It\u2019s not about long games and score sheets \u2013 it\u2019s about instant fun, glowing visuals and that satisfying feeling when the pins explode with color as they fall.<\/p>\n
Beyond a classic mode, players can choose from a variety of fun, skill-based mini games built right into the system. These quick-play modes add extra layers of challenge, variety, and replay value, turning every visit into a new experience as players compete for high scores.<\/p>\n
Added Dan Coppola, ICE\u2019s vice president of sales: \u201cBetson Distributing has been a major proponent of Neon Bowling since its debut. After seeing the game firsthand and testing it in the fall of 2024, they placed their initial commitment order even before last year\u2019s IAAPA show.\u201d<\/p>\n
ICE said the game\u2019s versatility and strong guest appeal \u201ccontinue to support Betson\u2019s strategy of expanding into non-traditional FEC spaces.<\/p>\n
Betson has been selling Neon Bowling to bowling entertainment facilities, casino-based arcades, axe throwing venues, movie theaters, pickleball locations, sports pubs and more.<\/p>\n
David Leichus of Sunstar Vending said, \u201cIt\u2019s one of our top-performing attractions across multiple venues \u2013 fits perfectly in social clubs, trampoline parks and more.\u201d Ken Morrissey of Casino Pier Arcade added: \u201cWe swapped out VR for Neon Bowling at our arcade \u2013 it was an instant success.\u201d<\/p>\n
Neon Bowling isn\u2019t trying to replace bowling alleys \u2013 it\u2019s reinventing the concept for a new environment. \u201cIt\u2019s bowling made brighter, faster, and more dynamic,\u201d said Joe Coppola. \u201cBowling may be a century-old pastime, but in Neon Bowling, it\u2019s been reborn for the future of arcades.\u201d<\/p>\n
Skill-Based Play & Licenses<\/h3>\n
ICE\u2019s new games continue the company\u2019s long-standing belief that \u201carcade success comes from games rooted in skill.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThese are not games of chance,\u201d Coppola said. \u201cThey reward timing, accuracy, and practice. Players feel they can improve with each attempt, which drives repeat play and helps build loyalty to a venue.\u201d<\/p>\n
Regarding the NBA licenses on Smash N Win and NBA Baller, Coppola added, \u201cBy weaving licensing into the mechanics and rewards, ICE ensures the license isn\u2019t just decorative and name recognition \u2013 it\u2019s a reason to play. The gameplay is just as important if not more important than the license itself.\u201d<\/p>\n
With Smash N Win, the NBA-branded balls are the actual prize, creating a real connection between brand and gameplay. With NBA Baller, the license \u201cenhances the fantasy of being on the court and competing under league branding to win a basketball.\u201d<\/p>\n
New Game for IAAPA Expo<\/h3>\n
Coming soon to a location near you\u2026 Odin\u2019s Hammer Strike. This game concept comes from ICE\u2019s long-term development partners, G&B Amusements.<\/p>\n
For more than a decade, Gordon Crompton and Ben Wilson have delivered games like Stop the Drop, Whack N Win, and World Football Pro. With this latest release, the focus shifts from the soft touch needed for Whack N Win to showing your \u201cViking-like strength\u201d in Odin\u2019s Hammer Strike. Designed with a compact footprint, the cabinet easily fits into existing locations, allowing operators to add the game without sacrificing multiple pieces from their floor.<\/p>\n
\u201cOdin\u2019s Hammer Strike has been tested in venues throughout the U.S. and Canada and has repeatedly shown itself to be one of the top earning redemption games throughout,\u201d Coppola said.<\/p>\n
\u201cOnce again, we combine simplicity with an action-packed cabinet and audio visuals that players of all ages enjoy. We see kids and adults competing, laughing and genuinely enjoying the experience.\u201d<\/p>\n
Trade Shows and Operator Education<\/h3>\n
ICE has enjoyed quite a few major global trade shows and distributor events in 2025 to highlight and showcase all of these new titles. They\u2019ve also been focused on marketing efforts, producing live demos, highlight reels and transparent walk-throughs of operator settings. And there\u2019s also after-sales support \u2013 not only technical service but product communication and guidance, too.<\/p>\n
\u201cMore than ever, we want to be in front of operators helping them maximize their revenues with ICE product,\u201d Coppola expressed. \u201cIt\u2019s a very real area of focus for us and we feel it\u2019s an area we can further separate ourselves from the competition with our experienced sales team.\u201d<\/p>\n
Following the upcoming IAAPA Expo in Orlando, you\u2019ll be able to see ICE games in person in 2026 at EAG London in the Sega booth, FEC Bergamo in Faroplay\u2019s exhibit, IAAPI Mumbai in CSML\u2019s space, at Amusement Expo in their own booth, in multiple locations at IAAPA Middle East, in the Warehouse of Games booth at DEAL Dubai and SEA Saudi Arabia, at the NJAA event in partnership with Betson, at Bowl Expo in their own booth and at IAAPA Expo Europe (again with Sega).<\/p>\n
Reliability & U.S.-Based Manufacturing<\/h3>\n
ICE\u2019s foundation remains its domestic manufacturing and parts support. While some competitors rely on complex overseas supply chains, ICE continues to emphasize \u201cMade in the USA\u201d reliability. For operators, they say, that translates to faster replacement parts, consistent service, and less downtime.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe company is working diligently to provide operators with a seamless shopping experience \u2013 from real-time shipping costs on parts and adding a new subscription option for consumables to potential discounts and promotions for signing up for the parts newsletter,\u201d said Lenny Hayes, ICE\u2019s parts manager. \u201cICE is reshaping what after-sales service looks like in the arcade industry.\u201d<\/p>\n
An example of this is the promotion ICE is running on their Down the Clown lighting kit. Down the Clown was launched before LED lights were seen all over different arcade game cabinets. The game continues to be a top earner on location, and ICE wanted the look and feel of the cabinet to match others in the game room. (From Nov. 24 through the end of the year, operators will get a free case of Down the Clown balls with their LED kit. To sign up for the company\u2019s parts newsletter, visit parts.icegame.com\/pages\/ice-newsletter-signup-page<\/a>)<\/p>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.replaymag.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ICE-CS-baller-661x1024.jpg\")
NBA Baller: A Modern Twist on Basketball<\/h3>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.replaymag.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Neon-Bowling-location-crop--1024x550.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.replaymag.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ICE-CS-IMG_4174-1024x895.jpg\")
An example of this is the promotion ICE is running on their Down the Clown lighting kit. Down the Clown was launched before LED lights were seen all over different arcade game cabinets. The game continues to be a top earner on location, and ICE wanted the look and feel of the cabinet to match others in the game room. (From Nov. 24 through the end of the year, operators will get a free case of Down the Clown balls with their LED kit. To sign up for the company\u2019s parts newsletter, visit parts.icegame.com\/pages\/ice-newsletter-signup-page<\/a>)<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.replaymag.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ICE-CS-Odins-Hammerstrike-2-2-767x1024.jpg)