In Japan, pachinko is not just a game: it is a cultural, economic and social phenomenon. With its sparkling machines, complex mechanisms and vague legislation, let’s dive into the heart of this unique pastime, which has been a part of the lives of millions of Japanese people for nearly a century.
A game with historical roots
In contemporary Japan, one game occupies a unique place: pachinko. This ball machine, a veritable institution since the post-war period, has established itself as both a cultural and economic symbol of the country.
The history of pachinko began in the 1920s, at a time when Japan was seeking entertainment in a difficult social context. Initially inspired by American pinball machines, pachinko quickly adapted to Japanese tastes, evolving into a unique form of leisure that combines chance, skill and strategy. Its rapid expansion after the Second World War also reflected a need for comfort and escape in a society undergoing reconstruction.
Today, pachinko parlours, which are ubiquitous in major cities such as Tokyo and Osaka, attract millions of players. But this success hides a social and economic complexity that few suspect at first glance.
How it works
How does a pachinko machine actually work? At first glance, it resembles a vertical pinball machine, where the player pulls a handle to launch small metal balls into a maze of nails, obstacles and targets. The aim is to get these balls into certain pockets or areas to trigger winnings, often in the form of new balls, which can be used to continue playing or exchanged for prizes.
But unlike traditional slot machines, pachinko requires a certain amount of skill: the force and angle of the shot influence the outcome. This combination of luck and skill is probably one of the reasons for its appeal.
Modern features
Today, the machines have moved away from being purely mechanical devices to become sophisticated electronic machines, halfway between traditional vertical pinball machines and video slot machines.
An enriched and immersive interface
One of the most striking developments is the integration of digital screens that dominate the top of the gaming table. These screens display captivating animations, immersive videos and dynamic visual effects, creating an environment that is as entertaining as it is electrifying.
Sophisticated game mechanics
Machine-controlled movable flaps open randomly or according to a specific pattern, offering temporary windows of opportunity to win. Players then try to launch the balls at the right moment to trigger bonuses.
Beyond this mechanism, the payout features have become more complex. When a jackpot is triggered, a special mode begins: the machine enters a phase where a win portal expands, dropping a stream of balls into the tray, with cascades, animations and visual suspense. But the surprises don’t end there: some systems, such as ‘fever mode’ or increased probabilities, multiply the chances of consecutive wins. This extended mode system allows players to accumulate several successive jackpots until the mode ends.
Since around 2007, pachinko machines have incorporated another major innovation: the koatari, often translated as ‘small jackpot’. This mode briefly opens the payout portal, even if no balls are actually collected by the player. This lure makes the game more attractive without compromising the profitability of the operators. Some models also include so-called ‘hidden’ modes, where the player is not informed that the machine offers higher odds of winning.
Gambling law in Japan
In Japan, most forms of gambling are strictly prohibited by Chapter 23 of the Penal Code. This includes gambling for direct money, as the legislation seeks to prevent citizens from betting to obtain winnings without effort or legitimate work.
That said, there are a few legally regulated exceptions:
- Betting on public races: horse racing, cycling, boat racing and motorcycle racing on circuits. These activities, regulated by specific laws, allow for ‘parimutuel’ betting, where 70 to 80% of the stakes are redistributed in the form of winnings.
- Lottery: organised by local authorities (prefectures, large cities), it offers low-cost tickets (¥100 to ¥500) and prizes of up to ¥100 million. The law requires that the total amount of winnings be less than 50% of sales, with the remainder going to local governments and charities.
In 2018, Japan enacted the Integrated Resort (IR) Act, paving the way for the legalisation of up to three large land-based casinos, provided they comply with a strict framework.
Although there is no legal framework governing online gambling, the government considers online gambling, including that hosted overseas, to be illegal for Japanese residents.
Pachinko and the law
Pachinko exists in a legal grey area. Japanese law prohibits gambling, but a loophole has allowed pachinko parlours to circumvent this ban. The balls won can be exchanged for prizes or tokens in the parlours. These tokens can then be sold to a third-party shop, often located nearby, in exchange for cash.
The Japanese government, while remaining cautious, regulates these establishments, which bring in billions of yen each year and are a major source of employment. But how can the protection of players be reconciled with the freedom of such a popular leisure activity?
A culture in its own right
Beyond the economic aspect, pachinko represents a major social phenomenon. It affects all age groups, although the majority of players are middle-aged men. These often noisy and brightly lit halls are places of social interaction where customers spend several hours, sometimes on a daily basis. Some players describe the game as a form of active meditation, an intense concentration that allows them to forget the stress of everyday life.
But this popularity is not without consequences. The rate of addiction to pachinko is a cause for concern. Associations have been set up to help players in difficulty, while prevention campaigns are multiplying.