Pop-A-Shot, the name behind the original basketball arcade game, is officially back in arcades with a brand-new release: the Pop-A-Shot Elite. After two decades away from the commercial arcade scene, the brand is making a serious comeback with a machine that blends nostalgia with new-age competitive features. If you’re a location operator or just a fan of arcade sports games, this is a title worth knowing.
Back After 20 Years But Built for Today’s Arcades
While Pop-A-Shot has remained active in the home gaming space, this marks their return to arcades since the early 2000s. The Elite isn’t just a rework of their home units, but it’s built to compete in today’s commercial game market. With upgraded hardware, player tracking, and a fresh design, it’s set to be more than just a familiar face.
The Pop-A-Shot Elite stands out thanks to a few smart design choices. It uses a compact cabinet that’s easier to fit in tight arcade spaces but still feels full-sized when you’re playing. The 49-inch protected HD screen shows live scores, stats, tournament information, and all the relevant info that any player would need from start to finish.
And yes, this isn’t just a “shoot and walk away” experience anymore. It’s more connected—and competitive—than ever, mostly thanks to this next feature…
Game-Changing QR System
One of the biggest updates with the Pop-A-Shot Elite is the built-in QR code system, which transforms a simple basketball shootout into an organized competition. Here’s how it works:
- Create a Profile: Players register through the Pop-A-Shot web app using their phone. Once registered, they get a personalized QR code.
- Scan to Start: On the arcade cabinet, players scan their code before a game using the integrated reader.
- Play the Game: After scanning, just press start and shoot. The game tracks your points automatically.
- Track Performance: Stats and scores are added to a live leaderboard and stored in your profile. You can even check your standing on the app or on the cabinet’s display.
- Join Competitions: With your profile active, it’s easy to join tournaments at local, regional, and even national levels. It’s one of the first basketball machines to offer this kind of experience.
This feature puts Pop-A-Shot Elite in line with other connected arcade games like Stern Pinball’s Insider Connected, but it’s the first time it’s being applied to a basketball format.
Price and Availability
Pop-A-Shot Elite is now officially available for purchase. While a few units have already shipped, full production will ramp up in June. If you’re thinking about adding one to your location, now’s the time to act—especially if demand picks up fast.
Pricing has seen a bit of a change. It was initially announced at a lower price during trade shows, but due to the recent tariffs, the MSRP has been adjusted to $6600. While this might shift again depending on market conditions, it still sits competitively compared to similar arcade basketball games.
For operators, this release offers more than just another sports game. It brings the kind of persistent player engagement that’s becoming increasingly important in today’s arcade industry. Players aren’t just trying to beat a high score—they’re coming back to climb leaderboards, improve their stats, and prove themselves in tournaments. That stickiness translates directly to repeat plays and higher earnings over time.
Pop-A-Shot Elite is more than a reboot. It’s a step forward in how arcade sports games can bring players together through shared competition and smart tech. With strong branding, a modern cabinet, and built-in score tracking, it’s designed to stand out in both small game rooms and full-sized FECs.
If you’ve been looking for a game that’s familiar but forward-thinking, Pop-A-Shot Elite might just be your next MVP.
Thanks for reading! Here at PrimeTime Amusements, we like to keep ahead of the curve in arcade game rental and sales and pride ourselves in providing the best service in the country. If you’re looking for a game in particular, or have a few questions about the industry, feel free to give us a call at 1.800.550.0090 or to swing by at 5300 Powerline Rd. Suite 210, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, 33309.
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