For people who have spent a shameful amount of time and money trying to win a cheesy prize with the crane toys in game arcades, here are some words of consolation from the Japan Crane Game Association: The game is not for suckers, and anyone can play it well if they learn the tricks.
Since March 2015, the association, based in Gyoda, Saitama Prefecture, has been organizing get-togethers to share know-how on winning — and to accredit what it calls the "Crane Game Masters."
Last Thursday, Children's Day, the association held a competition for children that attracted 20 players. For the Crane Game Master Grade 3 test held that day, clerks at Sekaiichi no Gemu Senta Eburidei Gyoda (The World's No. 1 Game Center Everyday Gyoda) demonstrated each of the 12 known "skills" across the store, using 12 booths stocked with prizes that each skill is suited for. Children were asked to listen, take notes and then were given 30 minutes to practice for free. Those who caught a prize got a stamp acknowledging their mastery of the skill.