Phase 1 (1994)

Phase 1 is the first major upgrade for Showbiz Pizza Time locations that includes a new game package, Kid Check, enhanced prize and merchandise offerings, 'Sky Crawl', and improved product presentation and service. In an informational sheet from a 1998 Storybook Crystal Corporate Gift Set, the document refers to 1994 as the 'Thumb Chuck' era of the company, describing the various attractions and a 'new logo, new exterior package, and total renovation of the interior.' ⁽¹⁾ Correspondence between SPT and its construction partners suggest the name 'Operation Thumb Chuck' while merchandise provided to managers and renovation team members is also suggestive of the same.

History

In 1993 the games enhancement initiative was put in the planning phases to bring more tickets into the game rooms and to rework the merchandise areas in existing restaurants. In the spring of 1994, Irving, TX (3903 W Airport Fwy) became the first location to receive the Phase 1 games upgrade.

Phase I

Kid Check

Kid Check is an initiative taken to keep children safer in CEC locations to calm the concerns of parents. They achieve this by having a Cast Member stamp the guests' hands with an invisible ink with a designated number that's only seen under a black light, an alternative is a sticker with a number to be given to small children.

Sky Crawl & Toddler Town

The Sky Crawl is an early concept of the Skytubes, which were colorful tubes that were paired with the Ball Crawl. These tubes were usually near 'Toddler Town', an earlier concept of the Toddler Zone, an area with a smaller ball crawl, games, and rides suitable for smaller children.

Games Package ⁽²⁾

• After Shock
• Chuck E. Cheese's Photo Ride (1993)
• Dino Rally
• Fling Shot
• Hightops
• Hungry Hungry Hippos
• Jurassic Park
• Ridge Racer
• Rock N' Bowl
• Robo-Bop
• Sidewinder
• Super Shot
• Wheel M' In

References

1. https://www.showbizpizza.com/ptp/characters/cec_storybookcrystal.jpg
2. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cfIPSn_MfpA