Tip of the Hat 2 - "Taito Inn" Kanda

Usually smokey sweat hole arcades are the most authentic of the bunch, but even so hygiene and general cleanliness are a must if you're spending any amount of time gaming.

That's why Taito Inn gets a second Tip of the Hat for having wet wipes at each cab. It may seem like a nothing, but this simple move takes it from being just another Taito arcade to a more personalized and service orientated experience.

It's a classier joint and the local clientele feel it. 10 points Taito.

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.

Arcade "Jack & Betty" - Kanda, Tokyo

Jack and Betty . .

Really great old school joint and well worth taking a 10 minute walk from Akihabara to.

Located underneath the Chuo and Yamanote lines, just a stones throw from Kanda station, you'll find an old school gamers paradise. Three arcades (TaitoInn, GamePark Minna no sumairu and J&B) rolled up next to each other - Jack and Betty stands out though as a true slice of the 90's.

Bunch of up-to-date games - Tekken, GG, SF (the usual line up) amongst a bunch of infinite cabs (thousands of retro classics on a single cab) means there's something for everyone.

An old school arcade tucked away under a railway bridge called Jack & Betty . . How can you not love this place?