How Japanese Arcades Are Trying To Protect Against The Novel Coronavirus

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Photo: Brian Ashcraft

Japanese arcades are places where people gather. But in the age of covid-19, that’s difficult, especially with machines so close together and players touching the same buttons and joysticks.

The novel coronavirus has hurt business for arcades. Mikado, above, had to launch a crowdfunding effort to help make up for lost income.

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As noted on Hachima, game centers are trying to help players social distance by setting up plastic barriers and sheets, as well as requiring masks.

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However, at these arcades, players aren’t required to wear masks while playing DDR.

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Arcades are also disinfecting the machines to help prevent the spread of covid-19. Some are even asking players to wipe down the machines once they finish playing.

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Hrm... One concern is how air circulates indoors, so the plastic barriers might not be enough.