While nothing beats the real life arcade experience, online crane games have grown in popularity for their 24-hour access and convenience. Now, the industry has its own official commemorative day. The Japan Online Crane Game Business Association (JOCA) has designated June 6 as “Online Crane Game Day,” with the decision officially registered with the Japan Anniversary Association.
What are online crane games?
For anyone unfamiliar with the concept, online crane games let players remotely control real claw machines through their smartphone or PC. Players can win actual prizes that are then shipped directly to their homes, allowing them to snap up the latest prizes without needing to visit a game arcade in person. Often abbreviated as オンクレ (onkure) in Japanese, all the major arcades now have their own online crane game apps.
You can read more about the best apps to play here, tried and tested by yours truly: The Best Online Crane Game Apps in Japan (IMHO)
Why June 6?
According to JOCA, the number “6” resembles the arm of a crane game machine. With two sixes side by side, the date symbolizes the pair of mechanical arms commonly seen on claw machines. I don’t really see it to be honest, but anyway.
The association says the commemorative day is intended not only to raise awareness of online crane games, but also to encourage the healthy and safe development of the industry. It has been working on initiatives including operational guidelines aimed at helping users enjoy online crane games, and plans to celebrate the new commemorative day with social media campaigns and special events.
Similar to their love of mascots, Japan seems to have a thing for a making a “day” for everything under the sun. I guess it helps to break up the daily grind and gives an excuse to engage in something stimulating.
Want to know more about crane gaming in Japan? Head to the main index page for curated lists of the best arcades across the city, crane game strategies and more.