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The legendary Sega Ikebukuro Gigo was shut down in September after 28 years of operations.

Chris Kerr, News Editor

October 19, 2021

1 Min Read

Sega is opening a new Ikebukuro arcade following the closure of the iconic Sega Ikebukuro Gigo earlier this year.

The Japanese company officially closed the Gigo arcade in September after 28 years of operations, and claimed the move was due to the ending of a lease agreement and the need for building renovations. 

The shuttering sparked an outpouring of emotion from fans, who gathered outside the legendary game hub to bid it a fond farewell. Now, just a few months later, Sega has outlined plans to open a new Ikebukuro arcade across the road from the old Gigo location. 

In a press release (translated by Kotaku), the company said the new arcade will house three floors of crane games and a top floor cafe, while arcade games will be located in a basement area. The new Sega Ikebukuro is being pitched as 'Vol. 1' of the 'Ikebukuro Project,' and Sega has indicated there are plans to continue developing in the Ikebukuro area.

The news of the Ikebukuro Gigo closure and partial revival comes around a year after Sega sold the bulk of its arcade business after it suffered significant losses due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

About the Author(s)

Chris Kerr

News Editor, GameDeveloper.com

Game Developer news editor Chris Kerr is an award-winning journalist and reporter with over a decade of experience in the game industry. His byline has appeared in notable print and digital publications including Edge, Stuff, Wireframe, International Business Times, and PocketGamer.biz. Throughout his career, Chris has covered major industry events including GDC, PAX Australia, Gamescom, Paris Games Week, and Develop Brighton. He has featured on the judging panel at The Develop Star Awards on multiple occasions and appeared on BBC Radio 5 Live to discuss breaking news.

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