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It's pretty much like slots: Tokens that you bought with money (or money if you're in a heated chase for the numbers and can't get to the counter) in, click a button, arrange a sequence with mini-games in between, and hopefully win balls (like 8mm ball bearings).
In the pachinko parlors, you can exchange the balls for overly priced snacks and drinks. But, since gambling is illegal here, no money, inside at least.
You have to walk out of the building to a "store" and it's either purchase an item with the balls or purchase an item for a cash-back return with the balls.
I've only done it a couple of times, because of the language barrier. If the machines had an English setting, I think I'd play more often.
I must add that I did play blackjack in my small home-town casino years ago. I don't know if it was a legitimate business or not, because I'm unsure of licensing for casinos, and it was behind the bar, kind of tucked away.
I remember going one night at about 7 and got up $200 from a $20 buy-in. So, I thought I'd try my luck again at about midnight and bought in again with $20. I remember reaching like $500-800, and that's when a waitress came by and asked what I wanted. "A coke," I said. She brought back definitely more than coke as it had a strong taste, and by 18, I knew what Jack & coke tasted like. So, as I sipped on it, I kept playing, $20 buy in at a time, before my 3rd or 4th drink and I was at about $100-150 in hand.
I decided it was best to leave by then... the house won because they got me drunk (I was only 120 pounds then).
I have never been in a casino so it is something I still need to experience when given the chance. From those I know of who have been in a casino, they seem to have a great time, just need to be careful if you do some gambling.
I'm in one 5 days a week, but I work for one, haha.
To get better at table games, I often play Wizard of Odds alongside of "watching" the game. I need to learn poker and the carnival games as if I was a pro playing them. I can't gamble on any of our properties but I could if I wanted to on another. I think if I did, Mississippi Stud would be my go-to game.
Casinos in my home country are not open to the locals, only the foreigners are allowed to play. But I sneak into casinos sometimes, but that's only occasionally.
I have not been to a casino for several years. Maybe 2018 or 2019, I don't remember. They are so far, and I've come to enjoy the convenience of playing from my livingroom! I do like playing live poker, but the older I get, the less it is worth it to make the trip.