Find Japan's first domestically produced claw machine, the "Crown 602"! The nationwide search project to locate actual machines and related information starts today. Stories from your memories are also being collected.
Note: the original Japanese article can be found at:
https://www.4gamer.net/games/115/G011584/20251024058/
Editorial Department: maru | 2025/10/24 10:55 (UTC)
Today (October 24, 2025), TAITO has launched the nationwide search initiative #FindCrown602, aimed at locating the original machine and related materials of its first domestically produced crane game machine, “Crown 602,” developed and released by the company in 1965.
Crown 602 was a groundbreaking arcade machine at the time, offering treats like caramel candies and cigarettes as prizes. After 60 years since its debut in 1965, however, no confirmed physical examples remain—only limited photographic records survive.
In celebration of this milestone 60th anniversary, TAITO is now launching an initiative to rediscover “the origin of crane games,” inviting information from those who remember the era and sharing nostalgic stories about the game. The campaign will run from today through January 16, 2026.
One individual who provides the most valuable information leading to a physical discovery of Crown 602 will receive a prize of ¥100,000 as recognition. Additionally, three winners selected via lottery among those submitting stories or memories related to Crown 602 or crane games will each receive TAITO’s latest game software product.
For details on how to submit information, please refer to the official press release below:
#FindCrown602
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Often called “the origin of crane games,”
Japan’s first domestically produced crane machine
Does ‘Crown 602’ still exist?
We’re seeking information! ??♂?
? ? ?
Photos of surviving units, old photos found in the past
Information like “I saw one at…” or memories and stories
Does anyone have any leads… pic.twitter.com/dHnhfMOA8U— TAITO Official (@TAITO) October 24, 2025
Project Topic Page: #FindCrown602 Nationwide Search Project
60 years ago, crane games began right here
Seeking the first domestically produced crane machine in Japan—“Crown 602”
Launching nationwide campaign to collect memories and physical evidence
Taito Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo) has launched its #FindCrown602 Nationwide Search Project, aimed at locating the original machine and related information for “Crown 602,” Japan’s first domestically produced crane game machine developed and released by TAITO in 1965.
This year marks the 60th anniversary of “Crown 602,” recognized as the origin point of crane games. In celebration, TAITO is inviting individuals who remember this era to share information and nostalgic memories.
Note: Multiple domestic crane game machines were reportedly released in 1965.
[Background for Launching the #FindCrown602 Project]
The domestically produced crane machine “Crown 602,” introduced in 1965, was a pioneering product that leveraged cutting-edge technology at the time, bringing dreams and hope to Japan during its period of rapid economic growth. However, as times changed, physical traces disappeared from company records—leaving only scattered photographs.
This year marks the 60th anniversary since the launch of Japan’s first domestically produced crane game machine.
We believe this milestone is an opportunity to re-examine the role Crown 602 played in Japanese craftsmanship and everyday life. Beyond merely finding a physical unit, we aim to reflect on past innovation, manufacturing spirit, and the history of Japanese entertainment—ensuring these values are passed on to future generations.
Therefore, we hope to collaborate with people across Japan to locate this legendary “phantom” arcade machine.
We firmly believe that Crown 602—the origin point of TAITO’s technology—may still quietly exist somewhere in Japan. We sincerely look forward to your information and support.
[Rules for the #FindCrown602 Project]
- Application Period: October 24, 2025 (Friday) – January 16, 2026 (Friday)
- How to Submit Information:
Use the dedicated web form on the project website or post via TAITO’s social media accounts—X and Facebook—with hashtags #Crown602 or #CraneGame60thAnniversary. Share any information you have about surviving units, photos (current or past), historical data, or personal stories connected to Crown 602 or crane games.
Please refrain from submitting the same information multiple times from the same individual, as this may cause confusion.
◆ Special Benefits for Submitters:
- One person who provides the most valuable lead resulting in a physical discovery of Crown 602 will receive ¥100,000 as a token of appreciation.
- Three winners selected by lottery from those submitting memories or heartwarming stories related to Crown 602 or crane games will each receive TAITO’s latest game software product.
◆ Selection and Announcement:
TAITO will evaluate all submissions comprehensively and select the individual deemed most credible as the top contributor. In addition, three winners for “Story Awards” will be selected by lottery from among those who shared heartfelt memories or stories.
Winners of prizes will be contacted directly by TAITO via the contact information provided during submission or through their social media account.
[Handling of Submitted Information]
By submitting information (including photos, videos, audio, text, and anecdotes), you grant TAITO a free, unlimited, irrevocable license to use your content worldwide for any purpose—including reproduction, public transmission, exhibition, translation, editing, or modification—on the TAITO website, official social media accounts, advertising materials, exhibitions, events, and other platforms permitted by TAITO.
TAITO assumes no responsibility should your submission infringe on third-party rights. Any disputes must be resolved at the submitter’s expense and liability.
You hereby waive all copyright (including under Articles 27 and 28 of Japan’s Copyright Act), portrait rights, and any related legal claims against TAITO regarding your submitted content.
[Important Notes]
Submissions may be deemed invalid if they:
- Infringe on third-party rights,
- Violate public order or morality, or
- Are judged inappropriate by TAITO.
Prizes cannot be transferred to third parties or exchanged for cash. Communication and connection fees incurred during submission are the responsibility of the submitter. Personal information will only be used for contacting winners and delivering prizes; it will not be used for any other purpose.
If receiving prize money triggers taxable income under Japan’s Income Tax Law, you may need to file a tax return if your total income exceeds a certain threshold when combined with other earnings. Please report this accordingly at your own responsibility.
Employees of TAITO or affiliated companies—including family members—are ineligible to participate in the project.
This campaign is governed by Japanese law. TAITO reserves the right to modify or cancel the project without prior notice, if deemed necessary.
[About Crown 602]
Released in 1965 (Showa Era 40) by Tai-To Trading Co., Ltd. (now TAITO Corporation), Crown 602 is considered Japan’s first domestically produced crane game machine (though various theories exist).
The cabinet features glass on both sides and the top, creating a box-like design for operation from above. The basic gameplay mirrors modern crane machines: when the claw reaches the desired position, pressing a button opens the claws while descending; upon reaching the bottom, the claws close immediately and begin rising—releasing the prize at the exit if successfully captured. At the time, prizes included items like caramel candies and cigarettes.
[Dedicated Website & Social Media]
- WEB: https://taito.co.jp/mob/topics/47029
- Official X: https://x.com/TAITO
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TAITO.Jpn/
[Contact for Inquiries]
For questions about this project, please contact: PUB＿[email protected]
Please note that individual responses regarding the status of submissions or selection processes cannot be provided.