#Japan #Tokyo #Takara Tomy #Pop Up Pirate #Blackbeard

Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Pop-Up Pirate

In 2025, the beloved party game "Pop-Up Pirate" (known as "黒ひげ危機一発" in Japan) will mark its 50th anniversary. To celebrate, Takara Tomy, the company behind this enduring classic, is set to release the seventh iteration of the game on July 5, 2025. With a retail price of 2,750 yen (tax included), fans will be able to find the game across specialty toy stores, department stores, mass retailers, and online platforms including Takara Tomy's official shopping site, the "Takara Tomy Mall."

Originally launched in Japan on July 1, 1975, Pop-Up Pirate has become a staple for party game enthusiasts, enjoyed in over 47 countries and having shipped more than 20 million units worldwide. The game's simple yet thrilling rules make it accessible for players of all ages, regardless of language or cultural background.

As we approach the milestone of 50 years, the new seventh edition maintains its iconic style while merging design elements from both the Japanese and overseas versions. Notably, the game will revert its winning condition back to the original: players win by making Blackbeard pop up out of the barrel, shifting away from the more recent iteration where popping up was considered a loss. This nostalgic return to its roots seeks to emphasize the universal joy of winning, aiming to delight long-time fans and new players alike.

The Evolution of Pop-Up Pirate’s Rules

In its journey through the decades, the rules of Pop-Up Pirate have been adjusted numerous times based on player feedback and cultural trends.

• - 1975: The game debuted with a rule where players won by freeing Blackbeard from his barrel.
• - 1979: The rules evolved to include the option of either winning or losing by popping Blackbeard out, depending on a pre-game agreement.
• - 1995: A significant shift occurred as the rule changed to explicitly state that popping Blackbeard out would result in a loss. This adjustment was influenced by popular quiz show formats that connected shock or surprise to notions of losing.
• - 2025: In honor of the 50th anniversary, the winning condition reverts back to its original form, promising to rekindle the joy of victory for players.

Moreover, the tale of Pop-Up Pirate's creation is steeped in history. It was during an idea retreat in the coastal city of Kamakura, known for its beaches, that the foundational concept emerged – rescuing the trapped pirate was envisioned as both a cooperative effort and a thrilling competition.

Additional Celebrations

To further honor this milestone, Takara Tomy has launched a commemorative campaign featuring various celebratory initiatives that promise to engage fans. An online guidebook detailing the history, trivia, and secrets behind the game's creation is available on their website, offering deep insights into this cultural phenomenon. The launch of a LINE stamp series in April 2024 has met with great success, allowing fans to share their love for Pop-Up Pirate in digital form.

Both old fans and the new generation will have the opportunity to experience the game anew. With a redesigned Blackbeard figure that combines elements from its international versions while retaining its classic charm, players can look forward to both the familiar and the fresh as they dive into this iconic game.

With Pop-Up Pirate set to continue its legacy for another 50 years, the excitement surrounding its timeless appeal is palpable. Players young and old can prepare for a fun and competitive experience, creating new memories that echo the laughter and joy of past games.

For more information, you can visit the official guidebook for Pop-Up Pirate's 50th anniversary at Takara Tomy’s website.