Pachinko is an unbelievably popular form of gambling in Japan. In the evenings and over the weekend, the rather glamorously named pachinko parlours are packed full of chain-smoking and coffee-glugging addicts. All sat transfixed in front of their flashing and noisy god of choice.
To keep gamblers interested (and more importantly their wallets open), the machines are frequently updated and are sometimes named after famous characters, places, etc. But one pachinko machine maker has hit a stumbling block with a proposed list of names for its latest range.
The Japan Patent Office recently rejected a request by the company to register the names of 35 famous people. Unfortunately I don’t know the full list, but a couple of those mentioned were Moses and Hitler. Two very contrasting figures it has to be said. The specific reason for rejecting the use of the name Moses wasn’t revealed, but the application for Hitler was deemed inappropriate and a violation of the country’s pacifist constitution.
The manufacturer in question said it had intended to use the name of Hitler as a parody, but admitted to lacking discretion with its selection. What they had in mind for Moses was sadly not disclosed.
jonathan says
Well I suppose when his mam and dad sent him floating off down the Nile in that basket they were taking something of a gamble (that was Moses right, my Bible knowledge is a bit on the rusty side…)
Or maybe they were thinking of Remi Moses, the ex-United midfielder, who I understand was partial to the odd flutter.
I’ll get me coat.
peter says
There is a pachinko parlor very close to my house and one of the themes of the place is historical leaders. Included is a picture of, you know it Hitler. It was a kick seeing it.