Gyanburera Jikochu-ha

Released by Game Arts in 1987, this landmark PC-8801 table game is based on Masayuki Katayama’s popular mahjong manga serialized in Weekly Young Magazine. The comical matches featuring a quirky cast captivated players regardless of their mahjong expertise, paving the way for a long-running series and numerous ports. With features like a guidance system for beginners and a faithful reproduction of the original manga's atmosphere, it stands as a historic title that greatly expanded the potential for character-based PC games of its era.

The story follows protagonist Drao Mochisugi, an underground professional mahjong player, as he faces off against a colorful cast of opponents at the "Miss Choice" mahjong parlor in Shimokitazawa. From players who "ruin the game" by ignoring rules to rivals with intense personalities, Drao must rely on his luck and skill to conquer the table. Through a series of self-contained, comical matches, the game depicts the daily life and heated competition of a man determined to win on his own terms.