LAI Games has revealed the games it will display at IAAPA 2023, spanning redemption attractions, racing hardware and motion-based aerial combat. The company is also presenting a new logo and features in the November 2023 issue of RePlay Magazine.
Cosmic Spire and Dragon’s Bane
LAI’s redemption line-up begins with two coin pushers. Cosmic Spire is a rebranded version of Playmore’s Demon’s Tower.
Dragon’s Bane appears to be an original title from Wahlap, although its origins have not been confirmed. Like Cosmic Spire, it uses coin-pusher gameplay, but adds a more substantial video-game component than the simple displays often found in similar attractions. The machine appears to use a single-button control system and includes three player stations.
For operators assessing redemption attractions alongside traditional arcade machines, these two games offer notably different approaches to the coin-pusher format.
Asphalt Moto Blitz DX
Asphalt Moto Blitz DX was the clearest game hinted at before the full announcement. Developed by Wahlap as a follow-up of sorts to Asphalt 9 Legends Arcade, it puts players on a superbike rather than behind the wheel of a supercar. A separate mode allows riders to compete against the cars from the Asphalt series.
LAI Games will not be the only exhibitor showing Asphalt Moto Blitz DX. Wahlap will also have the game at booth #202. An advertisement in InterGame Magazine indicates that Wahlap will additionally display Asphalt 9 Legends Arcade VR and other versions of the original game.
Its two-wheeled focus makes it a natural fit for operators comparing dedicated racing arcade experiences, from motorcycle cabinets to car-based simulators.
Air Strike
The third major reveal is Air Strike, an aerial-combat game developed by Ace Amusement. The cabinet shown in LAI’s IAAPA announcement differs from an earlier promotional design: the final presentation uses a more restrained colour scheme and removes the cartoon characters.
Air Strike can operate as an amusement-only game or as a ticket-redemption attraction. Players control the action with a yoke, while a swivel motion base adds movement to the experience. The combination recalls Sega’s use of similar technology in mid-range motion attractions.
Images from an InterGame Magazine advertisement suggest that Air Strike may ship as a twin configuration rather than as separate individual units. The available information does not confirm whether that arrangement will apply to every release.
Motion systems bring additional considerations for installation and upkeep, making practical resources such as an arcade machine buying guide useful when comparing larger attractions. Operators can also find help with arcade repairs and maintenance.
LAI Games at IAAPA 2023
LAI Games will exhibit at booth #731. The company’s presentation covers coin pushers, racing and redemption products, as well as the motion-enabled Air Strike. For broader coverage of new releases and industry developments, visit the RETROCADE arcade blog.
Which of LAI Games’ IAAPA announcements stands out most: the coin-pusher experiments, the motorcycle racing cabinet or the aerial-combat attraction?
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