Japanese arcade chain offers crane game coaches for winning prizes.

Natsuno learns crane game techniques at Benex, winning various prizes and gaining confidence with the help of the Assist Crew.

Natsuno, our crane game rookie, hits up Benex for some serious training. Crane games in Japan are booming, with growth skyrocketing 120% from 2013 to 2024, thanks to a wild mix of sought-after prizes like plushies and even household goods. At Benex, players can hone their skills on a free practice machine and get insights from the expert “Assist Crew,” who help strategize for better odds.

With 5,000 yen on hand, Natsuno started with a hashiwatashi machine, snagging a box of sweet potato snacks within just three tries. With the crew’s guidance, she tackled facial packs next and scored on her fifth attempt. Feeling empowered, she went for a Monchichi plushie, winning it after 10 tries. In total, she walked away with an impressive haul: a plushie, chips, a skincare pack, soup pasta, toilet paper, cocoa drink mix, and croissants. And that Monchichi? It’s on the down-low for now, as she plans to surprise her daughters with matching gifts! Who knows, she might be back for fireworks soon.

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