Myth Busting Carnival Games: Why Winning Is Encouraged, Not Discouraged

Carnival games have been a beloved part of the entertainment landscape for over 150 years. Yet, despite their enduring popularity, a persistent myth continues to shadow the industry—the belief that carnival game operators don’t want you to win. This stigma has been fueled by hearsay, exaggerated anecdotes, and portrayals in pop culture. But as someone who has spent a lifetime in the amusement and entertainment industry, I can confidently say: nothing could be further from the truth. Let’s dismantle this myth and explore why operators do want you to win—and how a well-run carnival game is built on fairness, excitement, and shared enjoyment.

Myth 1: Carnival Games Are "Rigged"

One of the most common misconceptions is that carnival games are deliberately set up to be unwinnable. This couldn’t be further from the reality of modern operations. Reputable operators adhere to strict standards of fairness and transparency. In fact, many regions have regulations that govern how games are operated to ensure fairness for all participants. The goal is to create an enjoyable experience for guests, not to frustrate them with impossible tasks. While some games may require skill or practice, they are always winnable. That’s part of their charm—guests enjoy the challenge and the sense of accomplishment when they succeed.

Myth 2: Operators Don’t Want You to Win

The truth is operators love it when guests win. Why? Because a winner creates energy, excitement, and a buzz around the game. When someone walks away with a prize, it inspires others to give the game a try. A winning guest becomes a walking advertisement, carrying their prize as a trophy and attracting attention from other visitors. That plush toy or novelty is a cost to the operator but the value it brings in terms of guest engagement and repeat play is immeasurable. The number of times I’ve heard cynics say, “Oh, they’re a fix, don’t play them,” only to end up walking away incredulously, arms full of prizes, feeling especially pleased with themselves, is staggering. Simply put, happy winners lead to happy crowds—and happy crowds spend more time and money enjoying the attractions.

Myth 3: "The House Always Wins" Mentality

Unlike casinos, where the odds are stacked in favour of the house, carnival games operate on a completely different principle. The key to their success isn’t how many people "lose," but rather how many people enjoy the experience enough to play again and recommend it to others. Modern carnival games often incorporate a "prize every time" model, ensuring that guests walk away with something even if they don’t hit the jackpot. Games like Lucky Ducks are designed specifically to deliver a win every time, fostering goodwill and encouraging repeat visits.

Myth 4: The Prizes Aren’t Worth It

Some people believe that the prizes offered at carnival games aren’t valuable, but this overlooks their true worth. The prize isn’t just a material object—it’s a symbol of achievement, a memento of the experience, and a source of joy for the recipient (see my previous article which goes into the Psychology of Carnival Games). For operators, sourcing high-quality, desirable prizes is a priority. A well-chosen prize can become a treasured keepsake or even a social media moment that extends the attraction’s reach.

Why We Want You to Win

At the heart of this Myth busting lies a simple truth: carnival games are about creating fun and memorable experiences. Operators want guests to leave with smiles on their faces, excited to share their success stories and eager to return. When guests win:

• They feel accomplished, creating a positive emotional connection to the game and venue.

• They encourage others to play, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere.

• They return for another chance to test their skills and win more prizes.

Beware of Unreputable Operators

While the majority of operators take pride in delivering fair, enjoyable games, the industry is not immune to a few bad operators who cut corners or prioritise profits over guest experience. These practices can erode trust and give the entire industry a bad name. This is why choosing the right partner is critical. With decades of experience in the amusement industry, I understand what it takes to create carnival games that are not only fair but also profitable and memorable. I provide industry insights, tips, and tricks of the trade to ensure operators deliver games that meet the highest standards.

Building Trust and Transparency

At JS Corrigan Leisure and Entertainment, we design and supply carnival games with fairness and guest enjoyment at the forefront. From skill-based challenges to prize-every-time games, we ensure that every player has a genuine chance to win. Our philosophy is simple: a well-run game is a win-win situation—for guests and operators alike. By offering fair opportunities, exciting gameplay, and high-quality prizes, we help operators build trust, loyalty, and long-term success.

Ready to Set the Standard?

Are you ready to add carnival games that deliver joy, fairness, and revenue to your attraction? I can provide everything you need, from concept design and game builds to training and operational support. With my experience and dedication, I’ll help you avoid pitfalls and ensure your operation sets the gold standard. Contact me at Shaun@JSCorrigan.com, and let’s create an unforgettable guest experience built on trust, fun, and success.