New Cab - Transformers / Human Alliance

Much thanks to Uzy for wising us up to this one!

Pretty standard shooter but a bunch of fun, the new Transformers game dropped earlier this month in Japan. 

These pictures taken at Club Sega in Akihabara couldn't really capture just how glorious and how much love the cab makers have put into it, so definitely check it out first hand if you're around the way.

200¥ a game is a little steep but is expected with something taking up so much space. Definitely worth the investment.

クラブセガ・秋葉原新館
〒101-0021 東京都千代田区外神田一丁目１１－１１
http://goo.gl/maps/5CWV5

Arcade "Taito Inn" - Kanda, Tokyo

We kinda avoid covering major arcade chains but wanted to give a shoutout to this Taito.

A real small setup but an impressive assortment of games, UFO catchers, pinball machines and darts too.

"Taito Inn" and the black banner gives the place an older customer vibe. Even major chains like Taito have to understand their local demographic, this town being right next to Akiba needed something a little different to huddle salarymen in the area. Pinball machines are few and far between Tokyo way, and having mahjong and pachinko means it isn't attracting the younger audiences.

Definitely worth checking out.

MeetUp - Takadanobaba "Mikado"

Much thanks for comin down tonight gents, good games all round!

"Game Tiger", Nakano Broadway

Not really a gaming arcade, more of a pachinko place, but being directly across from "Big マリオ" it's worth popping through while you're in town.

Arcade "SEGA", Yoyogi

Great hangout one station on from Shinjuku.

Located just a few minutes out of Shinjuku central makes this an awesome little place to beef up on your gaming skills - very few competitive players here means you'll be able to keep throwing coins down till you master that combo.

 

Arcade "GAO", Okubo

 

Awesome little arcade tucked away in the heart of Okubo. 

Until early last year the Korean district had one of the best gaming scenes in Japan, with even a 5 floor indie arcade packed with every fighting game imaginable. 2012-2013 saw a bunch of indie places feel the pinch. 

So glad to see this one still rocking it.