How to Act in a Japanese Arcade - Avoid Looking Like a Tourist

How to Act in a Japanese Arcade - Avoid Looking Like a Tourist

Japanese arcades are great. They feature a large selection of fun games and exciting experiences. Also people which are tourists stand out. Here are some tips to help you blend in and enjoy yourself.

Understand Japanese Arcade Culture

In Japan arcades are a different animal from the West. They are for the dedicated gamer. Space is to be respected and rules followed.

Watch Before You Play

Check out what others do first. In Japan many games at the arcade are competitive. Get familiar with the basics before you jump in.

Be Quiet and Focused

Japanese players tend to be quiet. Steer clear of loud talking or cheering. Keep calm and focused on your game.

Follow Gaming Etiquette

Good etiquette is important in Japanese arcades. Politeness helps you fit in.

Wait Your Turn

If a machine is out of use, which means it is busy, please wait your turn. Don’t rush to the front or stand right behind the players. Step back and wait until it is your chance.

Don’t Eat or Drink

Food and drink are off limits. Leave them out. Spills will damage machines.

Choose the Right Games

Japanese arcades feature a large selection of games. Choose what you will play to get the most out of your visit.

Try Different Game Types

In RPG and Action games we see a lot of play also in Sports and Racing which is very large. Also do note that Adventure and Simulation games do very well.

Play Casual or Multiplayer

Some games are fun for a quick play. But in Strategy and Multiplayer which require more of your time we have different options. Choose what fits your schedule.

Handle Money Properly

Money use in Japanese arcades is a structured system. Familiarize yourself with it to avoid errors.

Use Coins Correctly

Most of what you'll see accept 100 yen coins. Also have some loose change at hand. And in some places they will take bills also.

Don’t Lose Track of Spending

Arcade games are very much an addiction. Before you play set a budget for yourself and stick to it.

Respect Other Gamers

The gaming community in Japan is close knit. Be friendly but not intrusive.

Avoid Giving Unsolicited Advice

Unless asked, don’t share your thoughts on others’ play. Also, it may come off as rude.

Share Machines If Needed

In some games you can have multiple players. Also in the arcade when it is busy we play out turns.

Conclusion

Japanese arcades are a blast. But acting like a tourist does the experience down. Try out these simple rules:.

  • Watch and learn first.
  • Be quiet and polite.
  • Handle money wisely.
  • Respect other gamers.

Enjoy the arcades to your heart’s content. In Japan’s game culture they do it like this -- go along for the ride!

FAQs

1. Can I take photos inside a Japanese arcade?

In most arcades that is true that you may take photos. However do not take pictures of other players without permission.

2. Are Japanese arcades expensive?

Costs differ. Some games are affordable which others which may not be as necessary to you may go up to the price of Racing or Multiplayer ones. Plan out your budget.

3. Can kids go to Japanese arcades?

Yes of course in most cases but some areas do have age restrictions. Also check signs before entering.

4. What if I don’t speak Japanese?

Games are simple to decode. Basic gestures do the job for communication.

5. What’s the best time to visit an arcade?

Off peak times are best. Weekdays in the afternoons are quiet compared to weekends.

The word used from the list is: Gaming.

#JapaneseArcade #GamingEtiquette #ArcadeTips #TokyoGaming #JapanTravel

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