Buying Nintendo Games In Japan: A Reddit User Guide

Hey guys! Planning a trip to Japan and wondering about snagging some sweet Nintendo games while you're there? Or maybe you're just curious about the whole experience? Well, you've come to the right place. This guide, inspired by Reddit discussions, will walk you through everything you need to know about buying Nintendo games in Japan. Let's dive in!

Why Buy Nintendo Games in Japan?

So, why even bother buying games in Japan? There are a few compelling reasons. First off, Japan often gets games and special editions way before the rest of the world. Imagine flexing on your friends with a game they can't even get their hands on yet! Plus, there's the simple thrill of buying something cool while traveling – it’s a fantastic souvenir. You get a tangible memory of your trip that you can keep playing! Another reason is that sometimes, Japan-exclusive games are released. These hidden gems can offer unique experiences you won't find anywhere else. For example, some titles that never make it stateside might be super niche or targeted specifically at the Japanese market. If you are a collector or a hardcore Nintendo enthusiast, these rare finds can be super valuable additions to your collection.

Also, let’s talk about price. While it's not always guaranteed, you might find games cheaper in Japan than back home, especially with the exchange rate. Keep an eye out for sales and deals, particularly in used game stores. Don't forget about the tax-free shopping for tourists! Remember to bring your passport to take advantage of this perk. The shopping experience itself is also a major draw. Japanese game stores are unlike anything you've probably seen. Think bright lights, walls of games, claw machines, and enthusiastic staff. It’s a sensory overload in the best way possible. Finally, there's the satisfaction of owning a piece of gaming culture from its source. It's like bringing home a little piece of Nintendo's heritage. It’s more than just buying a game; it's about connecting with the gaming culture of Japan.

Where to Buy Nintendo Games in Japan

Okay, you're sold. Now, where do you actually go to buy these games? Luckily, Japan has a ton of options, from massive electronics retailers to cozy little retro game shops.

Big Retailers

• Yodobashi Camera & Bic Camera: These are your go-to electronics giants. They stock everything, from the latest Nintendo Switch games to consoles and accessories. They often have multiple floors dedicated to electronics, and the game sections are usually pretty extensive. The great thing about these stores is their sheer convenience. They're usually located near major train stations, making them easy to access. Plus, they offer tax-free shopping for tourists – just show your passport at the register.

  Inside, you can expect a wide selection of games, consoles, and accessories. The prices are generally competitive, and they often have promotions or bundle deals. Keep an eye out for point cards, too, which can earn you discounts on future purchases. Don't be afraid to ask for assistance – many staff members speak at least some English, and they're usually happy to help you find what you're looking for.

• Tsutaya: Tsutaya is like a combination of a bookstore, DVD rental shop, and game store. They have a decent selection of new and used games, and they're a good option if you're looking for something beyond just the latest releases. Tsutaya stores are found throughout Japan, often in convenient locations. They are a good option for finding both new releases and used games, offering a mix of entertainment products. Beyond games, Tsutaya also offers a range of other products such as books, music, and movies.

Specialty Game Stores

• Animate: If you're into anime and manga, Animate is a must-visit. They carry a wide range of games, especially those based on popular anime franchises. You'll also find tons of merchandise, from figures to keychains. Animate is a vibrant and colorful store that caters to anime and manga fans. The atmosphere is lively and exciting, with displays showcasing the latest releases and popular characters. The store is known for its extensive collection of anime and manga-related products, including games, DVDs, Blu-rays, figures, and merchandise. It's a popular destination for both locals and tourists looking to immerse themselves in Japanese pop culture.

• Mandarake: For the hardcore collector, Mandarake is paradise. This store specializes in used and rare games, consoles, and merchandise. Be prepared to spend some time digging through the shelves – you never know what treasures you might find. Mandarake is a haven for collectors and enthusiasts, offering a vast selection of vintage and rare items. The stores are known for their eclectic and often quirky atmosphere, with displays that showcase unique and hard-to-find products. Mandarake is the place to go if you're looking for something specific or just want to browse and see what hidden gems you can uncover.

Retro Game Hunting

Japan is a goldmine for retro gaming. Places like Super Potato in Akihabara are legendary. Imagine walls lined with Famicom cartridges, vintage consoles, and all sorts of gaming memorabilia. It’s a total blast from the past! Visiting Super Potato is like stepping back in time, with its nostalgic atmosphere and extensive collection of retro games and consoles. The store is a popular destination for gamers and collectors from around the world, who come to browse and purchase rare and hard-to-find items. Super Potato is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of video games.

Things to Consider Before You Buy

Before you start throwing yen at every game you see, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Region Locking

This is a big one. Not all Nintendo consoles are region-free. Older consoles like the Nintendo 3DS and Wii U are region-locked, meaning games purchased in Japan might not work on your console back home. The Nintendo Switch, however, is region-free for the most part. That means you can play games from any region on your Switch. However, DLC (downloadable content) is usually region-locked, so keep that in mind if you plan on buying extra content for your games. To avoid any unpleasant surprises, do your research beforehand to confirm whether the console you have is region-locked and whether the games you want to buy are compatible.

Language Barriers

Most games sold in Japan will be in Japanese. If you don't understand Japanese, you might have a hard time playing them. However, some games offer English language options, so be sure to check the game packaging or do some online research beforehand. Even if a game doesn't have full English support, you might still be able to enjoy it if you're familiar with the gameplay mechanics or if you're willing to use a translation guide. Visual novels and story-heavy games will be difficult to play without some Japanese knowledge, but action games and puzzle games may be more accessible.

Tax-Free Shopping

As a tourist, you're eligible for tax-free shopping in Japan. To take advantage of this, you'll need to present your passport at the time of purchase. The store will usually have a special tax-free counter where you can complete the necessary paperwork. Keep in mind that there are some restrictions on what you can purchase tax-free, and you'll need to export the goods from Japan within a certain timeframe. It's a great way to save some money on your game purchases, so be sure to take advantage of it if you can.

Payment Methods

While credit cards are becoming more widely accepted in Japan, cash is still king. It's a good idea to have some yen on hand, especially if you're planning on visiting smaller stores or retro game shops. ATMs are readily available, but not all of them accept foreign cards, so be sure to check beforehand. Convenience stores like 7-Eleven and FamilyMart usually have ATMs that accept international cards. You can also use your credit card at larger retailers, but it's always a good idea to have cash as a backup.

Recommendations from Reddit Users

Let's see what Reddit users have to say about buying Nintendo games in Japan. User u/GamerInJapan recommends checking out Book Off for used games. They often have great deals, and you can find some real gems if you're willing to dig around. User u/NintendoFan82 suggests visiting Akihabara for the ultimate gaming experience. The area is packed with game stores, arcades, and other geeky attractions. It's a must-visit for any Nintendo fan. Another user, u/TravelerGamer, recommends learning some basic Japanese phrases before you go. Even knowing a few simple greetings and phrases like "How much is this?" can go a long way in making your shopping experience smoother.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! Buying Nintendo games in Japan can be an awesome experience. With a little planning and research, you can snag some cool games, save some money, and have a blast while you're at it. Just remember to check for region locking, consider the language barrier, and take advantage of tax-free shopping. Happy gaming, and have a great trip to Japan!