Despite similarities to casino slot machines, a new video game parlor called The Lucky Penny opened recently in Nelsonville to offer “skill-based fun” with cash payouts.
Open to those 18 and older, the business is legal in Ohio because it is considered a “skill-based gaming club” as opposed to a gambling venue, said Nelsonville Code Director Steve Pierson.
“The Nelsonville Zoning Code describes it as an amusement arcade with skill-based games,” Pierson said. “The section on gambling was modified a few years ago to exempt skill-based games.”
The parlor differs from casinos in that The Lucky Penny’s games involve “actual skill,” such as timing and practice, while gambling does not, said co-owner Teresa Graves.
Graves said the parlor primarily appeals to adults in their 40s, 50s and older.
“I’m in my 50s and 40-year- old people is about as young as it gets,” said Graves.
Though most of the parlor’s patrons are of legal age, alcoholic beverages and smoking are not permitted.
“I provide everything to the players; I’ve got water, chips and coffee,” said Graves.
College students rarely visit the parlor, Pierson said, because “most younger people prefer Xbox games to slot machines.”
Graves has owned similar parlors in Somerset, Corning and Glouster for more than seven years and decided to open another location in Nelsonville after patrons in Logan and Lancaster asked for a more convenient location.
“Not only is my new place a convenience for my old customers, but I’m also hoping to get more customers,” said Graves.
While the parlor entertains many of its customers, it primarily serves as a place to relax with friends, said Graves.
“It’s almost more of a social event or a gathering place for senior citizens to see their friends and talk to people,” Pierson said. “Kind of like bingo; you wouldn’t see very many young people playing bingo.”
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