Game centers in Tokyo, where the number of users is decreasing due to the influence of the new coronavirus, are closing one after another.
There is no cooperation fee even in the state of emergency, and industry groups are expected to continue to face financial difficulties.
"Game Spot 21", a long-established arcade that has been operating at the west exit of Shinjuku Station for over 40 years, closed on the 20th of this month.
There are more than 50 game consoles in this store, and while being pushed by home video game consoles and smartphone games, they have been supported by regular customers and office workers who come to take a break, but sales have increased due to the spread of infection. It has dropped to about 20% of the previous level.
Therefore, it was decided to close the store last fall, and in response to the second declaration of emergency, the closing date was moved forward by about a week.
On the last business day, regular customers visited and enjoyed their favorite games, and when the store closed, they talked to employees and spared goodbye.
A man in his 40s, who has been using it since he was a child, said, "I have the impression that it is finally here. I am very lonely."
Naoki Ichiki, the manager of Game Spot 21, said, "I thought I could do my best, but I wasn't strong enough. I'm sorry."
According to the Japan Amusement Industry Association, which is made by game center operating companies and manufacturers, game centers are closing one after another, mainly in Shinjuku and Akihabara, after the spread of infection, so in this month's state of emergency, we will go to restaurants. There is no administrative support such as the cooperation money that has been provided, and the association expects that management difficulties will continue in the future.