#Japan #Tokyo #SANKYO #Pachinko #KUGITAMA

Exciting New Releases in the KUGITAMA Project

On January 29, 2026, SANKYO Co., Ltd., based in Shibuya, Tokyo, unveiled the second phase of its digital initiatives for the KUGITAMA Project. This latest update features three short dramas and two engaging pachinko simulator games, all aimed at enhancing the entertainment value and popularity of pachinko.

New Short Dramas: Unpredictable Entertainment

Starting at 11:30 AM on January 29, the first of the three short dramas titled ‘Isn't Not Knowing Wonderful!’ premiered. This series embodies the KUGITAMA mission of illustrating the fascinating unpredictability that emerges from the game of pachinko, emphasizing the thrill derived from chance occurrences.

The short dramas are produced around the concept 'The excitement lies in unpredictability.' Each episode promises cliffhangers and unexpected twists, enticing viewers to stay tuned until the very end. The subsequent two dramas, titled ‘The Fateful Nail’ and ‘To Enter or Not to Enter’, are currently in production and will be released in the coming weeks on SANKYO's official YouTube channel and the KUGITAMA project's dedicated website.

Cast and Release Dates

1. Isn't Not Knowing Wonderful!
- Premiere: January 29, 2026, 11:30 AM
- Cast:
- Tamayama: YOHEI
- Kugimiya: Hibi Kidera

2. The Fateful Nail
- Premiere: February 12, 2026, 11:30 AM (Scheduled)
- Cast:
- Ai: Mika Tanabe
- Kyo: Kazuma Takahashi

3. To Enter or Not to Enter
- Premiere: February 26, 2026, 11:30 AM (Scheduled)
- Cast:
- Alicia Kuguris: Vick
- Dubbing: Eli Shirogami

Watch the first drama here.

New Simulator Games: Keeping the Excitement Alive

In addition to the short dramas, two new pachinko simulator games, ‘Takoyaki SP’ and ‘King Gorilla II’, are now available for play directly through browsers on computers and smartphones, free of charge. This follows the successful rollout of last year’s offerings, ‘Robosky I’ and ‘All Star II’.

The new games faithfully replicate classic machines while also adding features to enhance the user experience for both novices and seasoned players. Beginners can engage with a tutorial mode, allowing them to understand the mechanics of the games quickly. Additionally, a 'V Challenge' feature enables players to enjoy the games even without prior pachinko knowledge.

Game Details

• - Takoyaki SP (1990): This charming game has players envisioning pachinko balls as takoyaki. The game's adorable mechanics involve capturing balls on a takoyaki plate, with various entertaining surprises unlocking during gameplay.
• - King Gorilla II (1992): With whimsical gorilla actions, players will have a blast as they navigate the humorously designed game that’s packed with surprises and interactive features during significant wins.

What is the KUGITAMA Project?

The KUGITAMA Project is dedicated to rediscovering and sharing the inherent fun of pachinko through its unique mechanics of nails and balls. The initiative aspires to counter declining player numbers and preserve pachinko as a beloved form of public entertainment for future generations.

For those looking to engage with this unique fusion of gaming and narratives, the KUGITAMA Project website offers access to all releases, further expanding the pachinko culture.

Find out more about the KUGITAMA Project here.