This week on Game Changers, host Josh Chapman digs into the unexpected ways the restaurant industry is learning from video games. While most diners might not see the parallels between earning loyalty points and leveling up in a game, the strategies behind both are increasingly overlapping.

In this episode, we explore how gamification—not full-blown games—is giving restaurants a competitive edge. Whether it’s leaderboards from Chipotle’s Strava challenge, OpenTable’s points system nudging reservations, or even a PUBG victory scoring you a real-life chicken dinner from KFC, the industry is experimenting with playful ways to boost engagement.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why full-scale restaurant video games like “Sneak King” faded, but gamification is on the rise.

• How tools like achievements, points, and social competition are changing the dining experience.

• What lessons from mobile games could power the next wave of restaurant loyalty and personalization.

If you’re curious about how game mechanics are shaping the real world—or just want to know how your next meal might be part of a quest—this episode is for you.

Love what you’re hearing?

Subscribe to Game Changers on Spotify and Apple Podcasts to stay inspired.

Sign up for the Konvoy Newsletter to explore the future of gaming, tech, and venture capital—every week.