Street Fighter Arcades in Tokyo – Big Box Taito Station Guide

The breeding grounds for some of the best Street Fighter players in the world are coming to a close and they’ll be sadly missed by many of my generation who grew up with them. I spent countless hours at the arcades, and can I tell you there’s nothing like the feeling of in person head-to-head competition – something that internet gaming will never be able to replace. Japan has had an advantage for years over U.S. players with Street Fighter games consistently being released in their arcades months before the U.S. could get their hands on a copy. Combine this with a place to consistently train and level up against the best competition, and you can see why Japanese players like Daigo are virtually unbeatable.

On any given night in Tokyo, you’ll find large groups of top ranked national players at one of the few arcades left. Most play at Big Box Taito Station arcade located in Takadanobaba, Tokyo off the JR Yamamote 1 line.

Once you arrive at Takadanobaba station, take the Waseda exit and Big Box will be directly to your right – the large blue building is definitely hard to miss.

Taito Station is located on the 6th floor of Big Box.

If you want to keep track of your Street Fighter IV battle stats, be sure to pick up a gamers card (400 yen) that will keep track of your progress and also records any costumes and colors you’ve unlocked. It’ll work in any official Street Fighter cabinet in Japan.

Now prepared to be beasted on by locals with techniques and strategies much different than you’re used to back home — Yes, even the girls are good so don’t underestimate them by their looks!

Next visit will be to Shinjuku Sports Land in Shibuya, Tokyo. Stay tuned.

Related posts:

• ACTivegamerS LA Street Fighter IV
• Japan Street Fighter IV Nationals DVD
• Round 1 Win at GameStop’s Street Fighter IV National Tournament
• Street Fighter IV Visa Card
• Bandage Girls in Akihabara, Tokyo