Buying Nintendo Games In Japan: A Gamer's Paradise

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Buying Nintendo Games in Japan: A Gamer's Paradise

So, you're planning a trip to the land of the rising sun and have one thing on your mind: Nintendo games. You, my friend, are in for a treat! Japan is a mecca for Nintendo fans, offering a unique and exciting experience when it comes to purchasing your favorite games. But where do you even begin? What are the best places to shop? Are there any region-locking issues to be aware of? Fear not, fellow gamer, because this guide is here to walk you through everything you need to know about buying Nintendo games in Japan.

Why Buy Nintendo Games in Japan?

Before we dive into the where and how, let's quickly touch on the why. Why bother buying your Nintendo games in Japan when you can easily order them online or pick them up at your local game store? Well, there are several compelling reasons:

  • Early Releases: Sometimes, games are released in Japan before they hit Western shores. If you're eager to get your hands on the latest title ASAP, Japan might be your best bet.
  • Exclusive Editions: Japan is known for its special and limited-edition releases that often include unique collectibles, soundtracks, or other goodies that you won't find anywhere else. These are great for collectors!
  • Retro Games: Looking for classic Nintendo games? Japan is a treasure trove of retro gaming goodness. You'll find stores dedicated to old-school consoles and cartridges, offering a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
  • Lower Prices (Potentially): Depending on the exchange rate and any special deals you can find, you might be able to snag some games for a lower price than you would back home. Do your research and compare prices to make sure you're getting a good deal.
  • The Experience: Let's be honest; shopping for Nintendo games in Japan is an experience in itself. The stores are vibrant, the staff are enthusiastic, and the sheer variety of games on offer is mind-blowing. It's a fun and memorable part of any trip to Japan for a Nintendo fan.

Where to Buy Nintendo Games in Japan

Okay, you're convinced. You want to buy Nintendo games in Japan. But where do you go? Here are some of the best places to check out:

Akihabara: The Electric Town

No trip to Japan for a gamer is complete without a visit to Akihabara, also known as Electric Town. This vibrant district in Tokyo is a haven for all things electronic and gaming-related. Akihabara offers a huge range of stores catering to all gaming tastes, from brand new releases to retro treasures, and is undoubtedly the most famous place to buy games. Navigating Akihabara can feel like stepping into another world, where neon lights illuminate towering buildings adorned with anime characters and video game icons. The sheer energy of the place is infectious, making it an unforgettable experience for any gamer.

Main Attractions:

  • Yodobashi Camera: Don't let the name fool you. Yodobashi Camera isn't just about cameras; it's a massive electronics retailer with an entire floor dedicated to video games. You'll find a vast selection of new releases, consoles, accessories, and even some retro games.
  • Animate: While primarily an anime and manga store, Animate also carries a decent selection of video games, especially those based on popular anime franchises. It's a great place to find special editions and merchandise.
  • Super Potato: If you're a retro gaming enthusiast, Super Potato is a must-visit. This store is packed to the rafters with classic consoles, cartridges, and memorabilia. Be prepared to pay a premium for some of the rarer items, but the nostalgia factor is priceless.
  • Trader: Trader is another popular retro game store in Akihabara, offering a wide variety of consoles and games from different eras. They often have competitive prices, so it's worth checking them out.
  • Mandarake: Mandarake is a massive complex with multiple floors dedicated to various collectibles, including manga, anime, toys, and, of course, video games. You might stumble upon some rare finds here, so take your time and explore.

Tips for Shopping in Akihabara:

  • Bring Cash: While many stores accept credit cards, some smaller shops might prefer cash. It's always a good idea to have some Japanese Yen on hand.
  • Haggle (Politely): It's not common to haggle in Japan, but you can sometimes try to negotiate a lower price, especially if you're buying multiple items. Be polite and respectful, and don't expect a huge discount.
  • Check for Tax-Free Shopping: Many stores in Akihabara offer tax-free shopping for tourists. Look for the tax-free sign and bring your passport to take advantage of this perk.

Nakano Broadway: A Hidden Gem

While Akihabara is the most famous, Nakano Broadway is a somewhat less well-known but equally compelling alternative for buying games. Just a few train stations west of Shinjuku, it is a more laid-back atmosphere with a great selection of retro games and collectibles.

Main Attractions:

  • Mandarake (Again!): Nakano Broadway is home to the original Mandarake store. Although this branch may not be as large as the one in Akihabara, it still offers a unique selection of games and other collectibles.

Tips for Shopping in Nakano Broadway:

  • Explore the Entire Complex: Nakano Broadway is a multi-story building with a maze of shops and arcades. Take your time to explore every nook and cranny; you never know what treasures you might find.
  • Look for Bargains: Because Nakano Broadway is less touristy than Akihabara, you might be able to find some better deals on certain items.

Game Stores

Apart from the areas mentioned above, Japan boasts a number of chain and independent game stores, such as:

  • GEO: GEO is a popular chain store that sells a wide range of video games, DVDs, and CDs. They often have used games at discounted prices.
  • Tsutaya: Similar to GEO, Tsutaya is another chain store that sells and rents video games, movies, and music. They often have promotions and sales, so keep an eye out for those.
  • Book Off: While primarily a bookstore, Book Off also carries a selection of used video games and consoles. You can find some real bargains here if you're lucky.

Online Marketplaces

Don't forget about online marketplaces! Websites like Rakuten and Amazon Japan can be great places to find deals on Nintendo games. Plus, you can shop from the comfort of your hotel room.

Region Locking: What You Need to Know

Before you start filling your shopping bags with Nintendo games, it's important to understand the concept of region locking. Region locking is a technical restriction that prevents games from being played on consoles from different regions.

  • Nintendo Switch: The good news is that the Nintendo Switch is region-free! This means you can buy a Nintendo Switch game in Japan and play it on your console back home without any issues. Hooray!
  • Nintendo 3DS and Wii U: Unfortunately, the Nintendo 3DS and Wii U are region-locked. This means that if you buy a game in Japan, it will only work on a Japanese console. Keep this in mind when you're shopping, especially if you're planning to buy games for these older systems.

Language Barriers

Another thing to consider is the language barrier. Most Nintendo games sold in Japan will be in Japanese. While some games may have an option to switch to English, this is not always the case. If you don't speak Japanese, you might have difficulty understanding the game's story, menus, and instructions. However, this doesn't have to be a deal-breaker. Many games are perfectly enjoyable even if you don't understand the language. Plus, you can always use online resources to help you translate any tricky parts.

Payment Methods

Most stores in Japan accept cash and credit cards. However, some smaller shops may only accept cash, so it's always a good idea to have some Japanese Yen on hand. Also, be sure to check with your credit card company to see if they charge any foreign transaction fees.

Tax-Free Shopping

As a tourist, you may be eligible for tax-free shopping in Japan. To qualify, you typically need to spend a certain amount of money at a single store and present your passport. Look for the tax-free shopping sign and ask the store staff for more information.

Tips for a Successful Nintendo Game Shopping Trip

To make the most of your Nintendo game shopping trip in Japan, here are a few final tips:

  • Do Your Research: Before you go, research the games you want to buy and compare prices at different stores. This will help you save time and money.
  • Make a List: It's easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer variety of games on offer. Make a list of the games you want to buy to stay focused.
  • Set a Budget: It's also easy to overspend, especially if you're a collector. Set a budget before you go and stick to it.
  • Learn Some Basic Japanese Phrases: Knowing a few basic Japanese phrases can be helpful when shopping. For example, "Sumimasen" (excuse me), "Kore wa ikura desu ka?" (how much is this?), and "Arigato" (thank you).
  • Have Fun: Most importantly, have fun! Shopping for Nintendo games in Japan is a unique and exciting experience. Embrace the adventure and enjoy the hunt.

Conclusion

Buying Nintendo games in Japan is an unforgettable experience for any gamer. With its vibrant gaming culture, wide selection of games, and potential for exclusive finds, Japan is a true paradise for Nintendo fans. So, pack your bags, brush up on your Japanese, and get ready to embark on the ultimate gaming adventure! Just remember to be aware of region locking, language barriers, and payment methods, and you'll be well on your way to building your dream Nintendo collection.