Your Guide To Buying Nintendo Games In Japan

So, you're planning a trip to Japan and one of the top things on your list is to dive headfirst into the world of Nintendo games, right? Awesome! Japan is like a gamer's paradise, especially for Nintendo fans. But navigating the Japanese gaming market can be a bit overwhelming if you don't know where to start. Don't worry, guys, I've got you covered! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about buying Nintendo games in Japan, from where to shop to what to look for and even some tips on saving money. Let's jump in and make your gaming dreams a reality!

Where to Buy Nintendo Games in Japan

When it comes to purchasing Nintendo games in Japan, you've got a plethora of options, each offering a unique shopping experience. From massive electronics retailers to charming retro game stores, the variety is truly impressive. Let's explore some of the best places to snag your favorite titles:

1. Big Electronics Retailers

Big electronics retailers are your one-stop-shop for all things tech and gaming in Japan. These stores, like Bic Camera and Yodobashi Camera, are massive and often span multiple floors, offering a wide array of products, including the latest Nintendo consoles, games, and accessories. Think of them as giant treasure chests filled with electronic goodies.

• Bic Camera: Bic Camera is a household name in Japan, known for its vast selection and competitive prices. You can find everything from the newest Nintendo Switch games to classic titles and a wide range of accessories. They often have special promotions and discounts, especially for tourists. Plus, many locations have tax-free shopping for visitors, which can save you some serious yen!
• Yodobashi Camera: Similar to Bic Camera, Yodobashi Camera is another major electronics retailer with a huge presence across Japan. Their gaming sections are a sight to behold, with rows upon rows of games, consoles, and merchandise. They also offer a point system where you can accumulate points with each purchase and redeem them for discounts on future buys. This can be a great perk if you plan on doing a lot of shopping.

Why choose big electronics retailers? These stores offer a vast selection, competitive pricing, and the convenience of tax-free shopping for tourists. They're perfect for getting your hands on the latest releases and ensuring you're buying from reputable sources. Plus, the sheer size and variety of products make the shopping experience itself a fun adventure.

2. Retro Game Stores

For those who have a soft spot for classic Nintendo games, Japan's retro game stores are a true paradise. These stores are filled with gems from the past, from vintage consoles to rare game cartridges. Visiting these stores is like stepping into a time machine, offering a nostalgic trip for any gaming enthusiast.

• Super Potato: Super Potato is perhaps the most famous retro game store in Japan, with locations in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka. Stepping inside is like entering a gaming museum, with walls lined with classic consoles, games, and memorabilia. They have an incredible selection of Nintendo games, from the original Famicom (Japanese NES) to the Game Boy and beyond. Prices can vary, but you're likely to find some rare and unique titles here.
• Mandarake: Mandarake is a large chain of stores specializing in manga, anime, and retro games. Their game sections are often treasure troves of vintage Nintendo games, with titles spanning various consoles and generations. Mandarake is known for its diverse inventory and reasonable prices, making it a great place to hunt for deals on classic games.

Why visit retro game stores? These stores offer a unique opportunity to discover rare and vintage Nintendo games that you won't find anywhere else. They're perfect for collectors and anyone who appreciates the history of gaming. Plus, the atmosphere of these stores is often incredibly nostalgic and fun.

3. Game Centers and Arcades

While not your traditional retail outlet, game centers and arcades in Japan sometimes offer games and merchandise as prizes or through special promotions. These establishments are a significant part of Japanese gaming culture and can be a fun place to try your luck at winning some Nintendo goodies.

• UFO Catchers (Crane Games): Many game centers feature UFO catchers (also known as crane games) filled with plush toys, figurines, and other merchandise, including Nintendo-themed items. While winning can be challenging, it's a fun and potentially rewarding way to get your hands on some unique collectibles.
• Prize Exchanges: Some arcades offer prize exchanges where you can trade in tickets or points earned from playing games for various items, including games or merchandise. This can be a cost-effective way to acquire Nintendo games if you're skilled at arcade games.

Why consider game centers and arcades? They offer a unique and entertaining way to potentially acquire Nintendo games and merchandise. Plus, they provide a glimpse into Japanese gaming culture and can be a fun activity for the whole family.

4. Online Marketplaces

In the digital age, online marketplaces have become a popular option for buying games, and Japan is no exception. Websites like Amazon Japan and Rakuten offer a vast selection of Nintendo games, often at competitive prices. These platforms provide the convenience of shopping from your hotel room or home, with the added benefit of reading customer reviews and comparing prices.

• Amazon Japan: Amazon Japan offers a massive selection of Nintendo games, both new and used. They often have deals and discounts, and Prime members can enjoy free shipping. The website is available in English, making it easy for international shoppers to navigate and make purchases.
• Rakuten: Rakuten is another major online marketplace in Japan, similar to Amazon. It features a wide variety of sellers offering Nintendo games, consoles, and accessories. Rakuten often has sales and promotions, and you can earn points on your purchases that can be redeemed for future discounts.

Why shop online? Online marketplaces offer convenience, a vast selection, and competitive pricing. They're perfect for comparing prices, reading reviews, and shopping from the comfort of your own space. Plus, you can often find deals and discounts that you might not find in physical stores.

What to Consider When Buying Nintendo Games in Japan

Okay, so you know where to buy your games, but what should you be thinking about before you make those purchases? There are a few key factors to consider to ensure you're getting exactly what you want and that your new games will work when you get them home. Let's dive into the details:

1. Region Locking

Region locking is a crucial factor to understand when buying Nintendo games in Japan. Region locking is a feature that prevents games from one region from being played on consoles from another region. This means that a game purchased in Japan might not work on a console purchased in North America or Europe.

• Nintendo Switch: The good news is that the Nintendo Switch is region-free! This means you can play games from any region on your Switch console. So, if you buy a Japanese version of a game, it will work on your Switch, no matter where you bought the console. This is a huge advantage for international shoppers and collectors.
• Older Consoles: Older Nintendo consoles, such as the Nintendo 3DS and Wii U, are region-locked. This means that games purchased in Japan for these consoles will only work on Japanese consoles. If you plan to buy games for these systems, make sure you have a Japanese console to play them on.

Why is this important? Understanding region locking can save you from making a costly mistake. If you're buying games for older consoles, be sure to check the region compatibility before making a purchase. For Nintendo Switch owners, the region-free nature of the console makes things much simpler.

2. Language Options

Another important consideration is language options. Many games sold in Japan are primarily in Japanese, with limited or no options for other languages. If you don't speak Japanese, this can make playing the game challenging or even impossible.

• Nintendo Switch: While the Switch is region-free, language options can still vary. Some games offer multiple language options, including English, while others are exclusively in Japanese. Check the game packaging or online information to see if the game includes your preferred language.
• Import Games: Some games released in Japan might have an English language option built-in, even if it's not explicitly stated on the packaging. These are often referred to as