Taito FAQ: Answers for Arcade Operators on Machines, Pricing, and More

What exactly does Taito offer for arcade operators?

In my role coordinating rush orders for family entertainment centers, I get asked this a lot. Taito is best known for its iconic claw machines, rhythm games (like Dance Dance Revolution tie-ins), sports games, and classic retro cabinets. But they also offer full station solutions—basically, a turnkey arcade setup with prize management and custom branding. Their portfolio has grown since the 1970s, and today they serve everything from small arcade corners to large FECs.

What is Taito Station Akihabara and should I visit?

Taito Station Akihabara is their flagship arcade in Tokyo—a multi-floor gaming mecca. Most operators visit it for inspiration (which, honestly, is worth the trip). What most people don't realize is that the layout and prize placement there follow the same principles we use in B2B setups. If you’re planning a new arcade, seeing how they handle flow and visibility is super practical. Don’t hold me to this, but I’d say it’s a must-see if you’re designing a high-traffic location.

What is the Taito Arcade 3 series?

The “Taito Arcade 3” refers to their third-generation compact cabinet line. These are smaller, lighter units designed for tight spaces while still supporting modern payment systems and network play. A client of mine swapped out old machines with Arcade 3 units last year and saw a 20% increase in playtime—partly because the new cabinets look more inviting. The upfront cost is slightly higher than some generic models, but the build quality and service support (as of early 2025) are noticeably better.

Can I include Kirby video games in my arcade?

Kirby is a Nintendo franchise, so you won’t find official Taito cabinets for it. But many operators stock Nintendo Switch consoles or retro-pi cabinets that can run Kirby titles (for private use, not commercial—get proper licensing!). Taito can help you source prize figures and plush toys of Kirby, though—their claw machine prize catalog includes popular character merchandise. I've seen a Kirby plush drawer increase redemption earnings by 30% pretty reliably.

How do you play the Horrified board game?

If you’re running a board game café or a mixed-use FEC, Horrified is a cooperative game where players work together to defeat classic Universal monsters (Dracula, Frankenstein, etc.). Each monster has a unique win condition—for example, you need to collect specific items to weaken them. The game is more about coordination than luck. I’m not 100% sure about the newest expansions, but the base game takes about 45–60 minutes. Some operators add board game lounges to boost dwell time; just make sure you have staff who can explain rules quickly.

How do you play 31 card game?

This is a popular fast-paced card game often played in break rooms or casual gaming areas. The objective: have the lowest score after three rounds. Each player gets three cards, and the goal is to make a hand that totals as close to 31 as possible in one suit (e.g., Ace + 10 + 7 in hearts = 18? Actually, Ace is 11, face cards are 10, so A♥ + Q♥ + 7♥ = 28). You can exchange cards by drawing from the deck. It’s simple enough for kids, but adults enjoy the subtle bluffing. If your arcade has a social space, offering a deck of cards and a rules sheet costs almost nothing and keeps groups engaged.

How transparent is Taito's pricing? Do I need to worry about hidden costs?

I’ve learned to ask “what’s NOT included” before “what’s the price.” The vendor who lists all fees upfront—even if the total looks higher—usually costs less in the end. Taito provides itemized quotes that typically include shipping, installation support, and first-year warranty. But I always recommend confirming: “Is there a setup fee? Does this include payment system integration?” In my experience, their pricing is among the more transparent in the industry. Still, ask about spare parts availability (unfortunately, some parts are backordered).

What if I need a rush order? How fast can Taito deliver?

Last quarter alone, we processed 47 rush orders with 95% on-time delivery. In March 2024, 36 hours before an FEC grand opening, a client realized their prize dispenser was the wrong model. Our normal turnaround is 5–7 days. We found a vendor swap, paid $800 extra in rush fees (on top of the $4,500 base cost), and delivered the unit by noon the next day. The client’s alternative was delaying the opening—which would have lost $12,000 in projected revenue. That’s when we implemented our “48-hour buffer” policy: always have a backup machine for critical slots. Taito supports rush orders, but their standard process gives you better peace of mind. (Not that you’ll need it, but plan ahead.)