Can my existing US/Europe bought console play import video games?

US store-bought consoles cannot play imported video games. Much as is the case with DVDs, there are specific regional codes that enable US consoles to play US games and Japanese consoles to play Japanese games.

How can I play an import video game on my US or European console then?

PlayStation, X-Box, and Nintendo consoles can be upgraded to play Japanese format video games via the installation of what is known as a MOD chip to the console's motherboard or through utilizing "switch disc" software. The MOD chip modifies the hardware and the "switch disc" software allows the software within the console to accept and run Japanese video games.

Where can I get a MOD chip or "switch disc" software for my US/Europe bought console?

There are countless outlets, both online and off, that offer MOD chips and software for sale. We do not suggest that you purchase a MOD chip to install yourself, unless you have a strong working knowledge of soldering and computers. Installing a MOD is not a simple task and should be done by someone with experience in these areas. Often online, consoles are sold that play all format games (with the MOD chip pre-installed), and off-line, vendors often will install the chip for you and test it. Please note that if your console is under warranty, installing a MOD chip will break the seal and void your warranty.

We do not endorse modifying your console machine and if you do so, you agree to accept the risk of damaging your machine and voiding the manufacturer's warranty. We recommend that if you are planning to play games intended for the Asian market that you purchase a machine made specifically for that region.

Another way to play Asian games is using switch disk which is just a CD you switch in and out of the drive. You do not open up your console for this so it does not break your warranty. This is by far the safest way to play Asian games without the risks stated above.

Doesn't this seem like a lot of trouble just to play an import game?

It isn't a matter of just one game. There are countless games released in Japan every year that are never released in the US. It's not because those aren't great games--many of them are--it is because those games' manufacturers make the decision not to release them in the US or Europe because they believe either the potential interest in the US is too small or the property the game is based on doesn't have a large enough US fan-base. Many of our most popular brands (including Gundam, for instance) have a number of video game titles that are only available in Japan.

Having a MOD chip installed into your console (or spending money on additional software) is not a simple thing, we admit, but if it were, everyone would have one. Part of the excitement of owning import-only video games is knowing that you are playing something that few in the US ever get a chance to see. All the while, you're getting that much more out of your console system.

Are import-only video games in Japanese?

Usually that is the case, yes. However, most games can easily be understood without knowing Japanese. Some might even be subtitled in English once the proper code has been inputted. Inasmuch, many games' instructions have been posted online by their fans. Import-only video games very often develop a loyal following in the US and Europe, as players consider themselves part of a small, unique club. We suggest researching a game online if it looks interesting to you or asking the opinion of other friends who might also be import-video gamers.

Are MOD chips or "switch disc" software illegal?

Absolutely not. Once you have bought your console, you are free to do whatever you choose to it. It will be a sad day when playing a certain video game will ever be considered "illegal".

For any further import video game-related questions, please feel free to email us at the Contact Us page.