As a country, Japan is not exactly known for its casino online and live gambling culture. Until 2018, laws were changed to allow casinos to operate legally. Before that, almost all forms of gambling were illegal. But there was always one game that was exempted by the Japanese government and never legally classified as gambling. That game is Pachinko.
What is Pachinko?
It is part pinball machine, part slot machine, but overall, it is a unique game in which players throw metal balls into a playing area with the aim of having them fall into different pockets. The balls that fall into the pockets can be exchanged for special prizes when the game is finished. Although Pachinko machines can be found all over Japan, there are also special arcades that are reminiscent of a video gaming room or a live casino.
A brief history of Pachinko
Given that the game is played mainly by adults, it may come as a surprise that the origins of the game can be traced back to the children’s game Corinthian Bagatelle. Even more surprising is that the game was originally an American game, which is certainly unusual given how distinctly Japanese modern Pachinko games are.
The original Corinthian Bagatelle was imported to Japan in the early 20th century and, at first glance, looks like a wooden version of pinball. The game was played on a wooden board with wooden pegs protecting special pockets. As in modern Pachinko, the aim was to make the balls fall into one of these pockets.
Pachinko became extremely popular in the 1930s, although its popularity waned for a time during the Second World War. After the end of both wars, the game continued to grow rapidly again, as Pachinko parlors soon began to appear all over the country.
How to play Pachinko?
It is a relatively simple game. All you have to do is pay for a few balls, and then you’re ready to play. Whether you play the online or the physical version, the game always starts with the balls being placed in the playing area. One ball goes into the machine each time you press the game lever. The lever reacts according to the force exerted on it, which gives the player some control over the speed at which the ball enters the machine. The lower the lever is pulled, the harder it will throw the ball into the playing area.
Once the ball is placed in the play area, luck will determine whether the ball will end up in one of the pockets/holes in the game. Various obstacles in the play area, such as metal spikes, make the ball move in unpredictable ways. You can redeem your balls for fun prizes when you’re done playing.
What can I win playing Pachinko?
When you redeem your balls, you will receive prizes such as electrical items like headphones or earbuds, small trinkets, cosmetics or special Pachinko tokens. But don’t despair, because they can be exchanged or sold in a separate shop, where you will get real money in return. When playing Pachinko outside Japan, you will receive the same winnings and prizes as when playing other casino games.
Is it possible to play Pachinko online?
Yes, many online gambling sites offer a variety of casino games, including Pachinko. However, before you hand over any personal information or your money to an online casino, make sure that it is fully licensed. Otherwise you risk falling prey to scammers who want to steal your personal information and money.