Go get this.
We told you that you’d want to see the documentary 100 Yen: The Japanese Arcade Experience. We weren’t lying. You should definitely see it, and now you can, as it’s finally complete, and now out on DVD. The creators sent word to also announce that they’ve signed with digital entertainment curator FilmBuff. Blu-ray and digital versions are coming late this year.
This historical documentary on the birth and evolution of arcade culture took three years to make, filmed on location in Japan and North America. It covers the whole story, from the pinball days to current day Japanese game centers. It tackles fighting, shooting and rhythm games, and explains why arcades are still relevant in Japan today. Game makers, industry folks, and gaming icons are interviewed in the film.
I’m most of the way through a screener already and feel comfortable recommending it. The film is very well done. I like that it really gives you a good picture of the mindset of the Japanese arcade patron, and the section on competitive play is especially interesting. I’m looking forward to finishing this screener later today.
