Current:Home > reviewsChuck E. Cheese has a 'super-sized' game show in the works amid financial woes -Streamline Finance
Chuck E. Cheese has a 'super-sized' game show in the works amid financial woes
View
Date:2025-04-11 17:45:33
A game show series is in the works for "big kid" adults still fond of Chuck E. Cheese, the iconic pizza place that doubles as an arcade and entertainment center.
The series, being produced by Magical Elves ("Top Chef," "Brain Games" and "Nailed It!") will focus on the brand's arcade experience, the company announced Tuesday.
Paired-off contestants will compete over "supersized arcade games," including pinball, air hockey, alley roller and the human claw, according to the company. The duo with the most tickets will exchange them for a much cooler version of the Chuck E. Cheese prize wall.
"We are thrilled to be working with Magical Elves, whose deep expertise in unscripted content make them the perfect partner to capture the wholesome competitive spirit tied to childhood memories and transform the Chuck E. Cheese experience for television," Melissa McLeanas, VP of global licensing, media, and branded entertainment development for Chuck E. Cheese, said in a statement.
"Chuck E. Cheese is THE place where a kid can be a kid – but as grown adults, we still have dreams of ruling the arcade, taking on the iconic games we love," Magical Elves co-CEOs Jo Sharon and Casey Kriley added. "We're excited to celebrate these legendary arcade games plus the best of today, all with a super-sized twist."
The Irving, Texas-based company did not share timing details.
The show is over:Munch's Make Believe band closes at all Chuck E. Cheese locations but one
Gameshow series comes amid company struggles
This is the company's latest attempt to expand its brand presence outside its four walls.
Wildly popular in the 1990s, Chuck E. Cheese has steadily been on the decline since 2012, according to a timeline reported by Business Insider, but it really took a hit with the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Since Chuck E. Cheese is known more for its entertainment than its food, sales tanked 21% in the first quarter alone, with families being isolated at home. The company tried to pivot by rebranding around a delivery service that would also bring the company's mascot around for in-person meet-ups, but it didn't prove to be successful.
Lying under a mountain of debt, Chuck E. Cheese is exploring a buyout, according to reporting by Reuters. The company is working with Goldman Sachs to restructure to "attract potential buyers, including private equity firms and other entertainment companies, like Dave & Busters."
veryGood! (2)
Related
- Which apps offer encrypted messaging? How to switch and what to know after feds’ warning
- New Mexico justices hear challenge to public health ban on guns in public parks and playgrounds
- In 'All Of Us Strangers,' coming home is bittersweet
- Report: Another jaguar sighting in southern Arizona, 8th different one in southwestern US since 1996
- Tom Holland's New Venture Revealed
- Oscar Pistorius and the Valentine’s killing of Reeva Steenkamp. What happened that night?
- Mega Millions jackpot at $140 million for January 5 drawing; See winning numbers
- Slovenian rescuers hopeful they will bring out 5 people trapped in a cave since Saturday
- 'Most Whopper
- Golden Globes 2024: See All the Couples Enjoying an Award-Worthy Date Night
Ranking
- Can Bill Belichick turn North Carolina into a winner? At 72, he's chasing one last high
- 2024 Golden Globes: Jo Koy Shares NSFW Thoughts On Robert De Niro, Barbie and More
- Tom Brady? Jim Harbaugh? J.J. McCarthy? Who are the greatest Michigan quarterbacks ever?
- Halle Bailey and boyfriend DDG welcome first child
- Taylor Swift Eras Archive site launches on singer's 35th birthday. What is it?
- Blue Ivy Carter turns 12 today. Take a look back at her top moments over the years
- Deputy defense secretary not told of Lloyd Austin hospitalization when she assumed his duties, officials confirm
- Golden Globes winners 2024: Follow the list in live time
Recommendation
IOC's decision to separate speed climbing from other disciplines paying off
Florida Republicans vote on removing party chairman accused of rape as DeSantis pins hopes on Iowa
Hundreds evacuate homes, 38 rescued from floods in southeast Australia after heavy storms
Bills end season with five straight wins and AFC East. How scary will they be in playoffs?
Off the Grid: Sally breaks down USA TODAY's daily crossword puzzle, Hi Hi!
2024 Golden Globes: Dua Lipa Weighs in on Her Future Acting Career After Barbie
Dry skin bothering you? This is what’s causing it.
Margot Robbie, Taylor Swift and More Best Dressed Stars at the Golden Globes 2024