Japan Tabletop Games Market Size, Share, and COVID-19 Impact Analysis, By Type (Board Games, Card Games, Quiz Games, and Others), By Distribution Channel (Online and Offline), and Japan Tabletop Games Market Insights, Industry Trend, Forecasts to 2035

Japan Tabletop Games Market Insights Forecasts to 2035

• The Japan Tabletop Games Market Size is Expected to Grow at a CAGR of 6.7% from 2025 to 2035
• The Japan Tabletop Games Market Size is Expected to Hold a Significant Share by 2035

According to a research report published by Spherical Insights & Consulting, the Japan tabletop games market size is expected to hold a significant share by 2035, at a CAGR of 6.7% during the forecast period 2025-2035. The Japan tabletop games market is growing due to the resurgence of interest in analog entertainment among the younger generation, which has increased board games and RPG participation.

Market Overview

The Japan tabletop games market refers to analog games, such as board games, card games, or role-playing games (RPGs), that are played without any electronic device. These games are used for fun, socializing, and learning. Japan's rich history, longevity of storytelling and art, and cultural heritage assist in the creation of original and exciting tabletop games. The market accepts a loyal fan base and an active community of creators and players. International market growth opportunities exist, especially with the localization of Japanese games and cooperation with worldwide partners. Key drivers include a resurgence in interest among younger demographics, increased accessibility through crowdfunding platforms, and the integration of popular intellectual properties (IPs) into game designs. Japan’s government supports tabletop games indirectly through cultural promotion, creative industry funding, and export programs for traditional and modern entertainment.

Report Coverage

This research report categorizes the market for the Japan tabletop games market based on various segments and regions and forecasts revenue growth and analyzes trends in each submarket. The report analyses the key growth drivers, opportunities, and challenges influencing the Japan tabletop games market. Recent market developments and competitive strategies such as expansion, product launch, and development, partnership, merger, and acquisition have been included to draw the competitive landscape in the market. The report strategically identifies and profiles the key market players and analyses their core competencies in each sub-segment of the Japan tabletop games market.

Driving Factors

The Japan tabletop games market is driven by growing consumer interest in analog entertainment, especially among younger generations seeking social and immersive experiences. Engagement and visibility are created by conventions, community events, and board game cafés. Hits from Japan with intellectual property appearing in board games will attract fans and collectors. Crowdfunding also allows indie creators to get directly in touch with audiences. Post-pandemic lifestyle shifts, with people seeing more quality time pursuing screen-free activities that promote face-to-face interaction and creativity, also contribute.

Restraining Factors

The Japan tabletop games market is limited by competition from digital entertainment, a lack of mainstream visibility, and high production costs for indie creators. Language barriers and niche appeal further limit international expansion and domestic adoption beyond this narrow niche.

Market Segmentation

The Japan tabletop games market share is classified into type and distribution channel.

• The board games segment held a significant share in 2024 and is expected to grow at a significant CAGR during the forecast period.

The Japan tabletop games market is segmented by type into board games, card games, quiz games, and others. Among these, the board games segment held a significant share in 2024 and is expected to grow at a significant CAGR during the forecast period. That is due to their accessibility, straightforward rules that are unnecessary to memorize, and social features. Moreover, board games are available in diverse themes, genres, and mechanics of gameplay, which can help satisfy diverse interests and tastes. Board games are appreciated universally across demographics, such as family games, casual players, hobbyists, and enthusiasts.

• The offline segment held the largest market share in 2024 and is expected to grow at a significant CAGR during the forecast period.

The Japan tabletop games market is segmented by distribution channel into online and offline. Among these, the offline segment held the largest market share in 2024 and is expected to grow at a significant CAGR during the forecast period. Physical stores provide immediate access to tabletop games to enable gamers to purchase and play games on the same day without delays due to online shipping. Immediate availability suits gamers who want instant gratification and convenience.

Competitive Analysis:

The report offers the appropriate analysis of the key organizations/companies involved within the Japan tabletop games market along with a comparative evaluation primarily based on their product offering, business overviews, geographic presence, enterprise strategies, segment market share, and SWOT analysis. The report also provides an elaborative analysis focusing on the current news and developments of the companies, which includes product development, innovations, joint ventures, partnerships, mergers & acquisitions, strategic alliances, and others. This allows for the evaluation of the overall competition within the market.

List of Key Companies

• Hobby Japan Co., Ltd.
• Oishi Tengudo
• Epoch Co., Ltd.
• JELLY JELLY GAMES
• Tomy
• Bandai Co., Ltd.
• GungHo Online Entertainment
• Nintendo
• Gakken Holdings Co., Ltd.
• Nexon
• Others

Key Target Audience

• Market Players
• Investors
• End-users
• Government Authorities 
• Consulting and Research Firm
• Venture capitalists
• Value-Added Resellers (VARs)

Market Segment

This study forecasts revenue at Japan, regional, and country levels from 2020 to 2035. Spherical Insights has segmented the Japan tabletop games market based on the below-mentioned segments:

Japan Tabletop Games Market, By Type

• Board Games
• Card Games
• Quiz Games
• Others

Japan Tabletop Games Market, By Distribution Channel

• Online
• Offline