Jankenman

The delightfully nostalgic Japanese ジャンケンマン (“Jankenman”) arcade machine—a Showa-era gem that’s equal parts kitsch and charm. The machine, made by Sunwise, is based on janken (rock-paper-scissors), the classic hand game that’s settled more schoolyard debates in Japan than any courtroom ever could. The LED display in the center is showing the “peace” or “scissors” sign, and players use the three yellow buttons at the bottom to make their move—rock (グー), scissors (チョキ), or paper (パー).

These machines were a staple in candy stores, game arcades, and dingy supermarket corners during the late Showa period and into the early Heisei era. They’re simple, cheap thrills—designed to dispense small toys or candies if you beat the machine. You can almost hear the squeaky buttons being mashed by sugar-fueled kids who had just enough yen in their pockets to feel like high rollers.

Everything about this machine screams “used but loved.” The paint is scuffed, the plastic casing shows age, but the lights are still faithfully blinking, like an old friend who never gave up the hustle. It’s a time capsule of tactile joy, a survivor from an analog age when fun came in clunky, colorful boxes and a win meant sweet, sweet bragging rights.