A call for information has been launched in Japan surrounding a crane game from 60 years ago. This vintage claw machine game, a staple in arcades, is being researched by historians looking to compile a more detailed history of the amusement industry in the country. They are now turning to the public to help piece together the game's history, and any knowledge about its manufacturer, the kind of prizes it once held, and venues where it was popular could be invaluable.

Crane games, or UFO catchers, are deeply ingrained in Japanese leisure and entertainment culture, prevalent in game centers across the country. This call for information shows an interest in preserving and documenting aspects of popular culture and its evolution in Japan. It is also a testament to the Japanese value of respecting and learning from history.

In the US and EU, the history of arcade games is also cherished and preserved, often through museums, private collections, and academic research. Crowd-sourcing for historical information is a common tactic used worldwide. However, crane games do not hold the same cultural significance in Western countries as they do in Japan.