Nationwide pachinko halls will host a groundbreaking event on May 2nd and 3rd, offering free trial play sessions of pachinko and pachislot machines directly on their active gaming floors.
The initiative is a response to a critical industry challenge: expanding the fan base by reaching out to younger generations and non-players. To address this, four major pachinko hall associations and two manufacturer associations (Nikkoso and Nichidenkyo) have developed a strategic proposal called “Fandom Experience Day” (originally titled Oshi-no-Hi in Japanese).
This May event serves as a pre-test to validate the feasibility and impact of using anime intellectual property (IP) as a bridge to new users.
Note on “Oshi”:
- The term “Oshi” refers to a dedicated support for a specific “fave” or “bias”—typically a character or anime series. By branding this event as a “Fandom Experience,” the industry aims to reframe gaming halls not just as gambling venues, but as physical spaces where fans can interact with their favorite intellectual properties (IPs).
This marks the first time in history that pachinko halls will offer free play experiences within their actual operating premises. Participation in this pre-test is voluntary for individual halls.
To ensure a modern and streamlined experience, the trial will be limited to “Smart Machines.”
Note on “Smart Machines”:
- Smart Pachislot: Completely “medal-less,” utilizing digital credits.
- Smart Pachinko: Features a “closed-loop” ball system where physical balls circulate internally, eliminating the need for players to handle or touch the balls directly.
The trial is capped at a maximum of 20 units each for pachinko and pachislot per location. The four major hall associations plan to analyze the data and effectiveness of this pre-test to determine future large-scale rollouts.
text by tanaka Tsuyoshi