The Japanese Games Store Friends In Akihabara Will Close By The End Of August

Japanese games store Friends in Akihabara has announced its closure at the end of August, as disclosed by Twitter user @Grandmaster2048. Friends is well-known for its specialization in selling video game soundtracks, electronic toys, peripherals, consoles, and a variety of games for retro platforms such as the NES, SNES, PS1, and MSX. The store used to occupy two floors above a local restaurant but recently downsized to a single floor.

The closure of a store was announced to customers through a handwritten note in English and Japanese, without providing an explanation for the sudden shutdown. This news led to an outpouring of supportive messages from former visitors online. It is recommended to visit the store before the end of August if you will be in Japan.

秋葉原のフレンズ閉店しちゃうんですね…
そのせいか分かりませんが、お客さんいつもの週末より多いような？(〃ω〃) pic.twitter.com/LzIrInYvna

— strider＠2048 (@GrandMaster2048) July 13, 2024