Chuck E. Cheese Rolls Out a Subscription Model To Win Us Back

Chuck E. Cheese — the nostalgic family entertainment chain known for its pizza, arcade games, animatronic band (RIP), and prizes — is trying to win us back. Launching a nationwide subscription program, the company hopes to target families with inflation fatigue. And let's be real — in this economy, who isn't fatigued? 

"Amid rising costs, our goal was to offer great value, and develop an easy, and fun solution for everyone," said Executive Vice President Mark Kupferman in a press release, noting that "We understand families are struggling to find affordable entertainment options outside the home right now." 

But is the deal enough to bring families back? Let's take a look at what's offered. 

The Chuck E. Cheese Fun Pass offers two options: a two-month pass or a monthly plan. By signing up, families get unlimited visits, daily gameplay, exclusive discounts, and surprise offers. Both options come with Play Points, discounts, and additional perks, but the monthly Fun Pass (gold tier) requires a 12-month commitment.

The program also allows members to play up to 250 games per day and enjoy discounts of up to 50% on most food and drinks. Members also receive surprise bonus benefits throughout the year. Passes are valid at over 470 participating Chuck E. Cheese locations across the U.S.

Here's what the Bronze Pass includes:

• Unlimited visits
• 40 games every day (est. 30-45 minutes)
• 20% off food and drink
• 20% extra games (Play Points only)
• Play Pass cards (for up to six family members)
• Surprise bonus gifts

Here's what the Silver Pass includes:

• Unlimited visits
• 100 games every day (est. 1-2 hrs)
• 30% off food and drink
• 30% extra games (Play Points only)
• Play Pass cards (for up to six family members)
• Surprise bonus gifts

Here's what the Gold Pass includes:

• Unlimited visits
• 250 games every day (est. 3-5 hrs)
• 50% off food and drink
• 50% extra games (Play Points only)
• Play Pass cards (for up to six family members)
• Surprise bonus gifts

How long does the Fun Pass last?

When you purchase the two-month pass, it remains valid for two full months from the date of purchase. For the monthly membership, a 12-month commitment is required.

How do I know which Fun Pass level to pick?

It depends on how many games you'd like to play and the discounts you prefer. If you have more than two kids, the Silver or Gold options might be a better choice.

How many games can my child play?

Bronze: 40 games (30-45 minutes), Silver: 100 games (1-2 hours), Gold: 250 games (3-5 hours).

Can multiple kids share a Fun Pass?

Yes, it can be shared among members of your household.

How long will my Fun Pass benefits be available?

When you purchase the two-month pass, benefits are available immediately and continue for two full months from the purchase date. With the monthly membership, benefits are accessible for the entire duration of your membership.

Can adults use the Fun Pass too?

Yes, adults in your family can use the pass to play games as well. 

For other FAQs about specific games, points, and prizes, visit the official Chuck E. Cheese website. 

Not to be outdone, other chains have also stepped up efforts in hopes of attracting new and existing customers. Some are offering loyalty or rewards programs that include exclusive discounts, early access to sales, and rewards points that can be redeemed for future purchases. Others are even introducing subscription services with benefits like members-only pricing, free birthday treats, and other deals.  

While there are many reasons why a restaurant subscription program may not be worth it, here's a closer look at the membership programs and deals offered by other chains.

Sweetgreen, the trendy salad spot, unveiled a paid version of its loyalty program called Sweetpass+ just last year. The free version of the pass lets you earn rewards, birthday treats, exclusive menu items, and more. To receive additional perks, including a daily $3 discount and one free dinner delivery each month, users can upgrade to Sweetpass+ for a fee of $10 per month. Customers must first create a digital account to enroll in the program. 

Panera's "Unlimited Sip Club" subscription costs $14.99 per month and includes one free cup of coffee, hot tea, iced coffee, iced tea, lemonade, or fountain beverage every two hours during regular bakery-cafe hours. The program also includes free refills of the same beverage at any participating location. Note that cold brew, espresso drinks, and other specialty beverages are not included in the subscription. 

In July, Taco Bell launched a Nacho Fries Lover's Pass, which offered customers thirty days of the chain's popular Nacho Fries for only $10. The limited-time subscription followed a Taco Lover's Pass in 2022, which offered rewards members one of seven tacos per day for thirty days.  

There's good news for Taco Bell fans who missed the limited-time offerings — the chain's ongoing rewards program is free to join and helps one earn points to unlock free items, special offers, and exclusive access to new products and surprises. To join, you can download the Taco Bell app or visit tacobell.com as a logged-in user. 

If you don't have an account yet, download the app or visit the website, sign up for a Taco Bell account, agree to the terms, and you'll be automatically enrolled.

In 2022, P.F. Chang's began offering a paid subscription-based loyalty program that offered members unlimited free delivery, priority reservations, and other VIP perks for a monthly $6.99 fee. The chain seems to have quietly ended the program, perhaps because too many customers found that the paid subscription just wasn't worth it.

P.F. Chang’s ongoing loyalty program, called Chang's Ca$h, offers members the chance to earn points and redeem them for rewards. All participants start in the Gold Reward tier, where they earn 10 points per $1 spent, receive a $15 reward after reaching 2,000 points, and enjoy a complimentary dessert or appetizer during their birthday month. 

Members who want additional perks can upgrade to Platinum Rewards, which offers 20 points per $1 spent, a $15 reward at 2,000 points, free delivery, priority reservations, VIP concierge support, and exclusive insider access. The Platinum tier costs $6.99 per month. Customers also receive a $15 reward upon sign-up. 

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