Love, Luck, Gacha
Vanessa Shimon
Where do we draw the line between harmless fun and a damaging addiction?
As an adolescent, I was introduced to gacha: a monetization mechanic in which money or tokens are exchanged for a random prize. Consumed by an arcade game, I amassed hundreds of its collectible cards. Over time, my love for gacha remains for its various incarnations: gacha machines (gachapon), blind boxes, trading cards, and video games.
Drawing from personal experiences, Love, Luck, Gacha offers an informative, critical, and empathetic dive into the world of gacha. It aims to be accessible to those unfamiliar with the hobby while resonating with dedicated fans. The style mirrors the "cute" aesthetics of gacha, which differs from the ostentatious visuals of conventional gambling. Therefore, it highlights the significance of design in transforming the act of gambling into a more palatable spectacle.
The book is split into four main sections focused on a gacha form, including its history, evolution, and appeal. Meanwhile, the gachapon randomly dispenses capsules containing stickers and labels. The stickers, inspired by common symbols of luck (cats) and trickery (rabbits), mock the inherently rigged game of luck. Additionally, the labels taunt the audience for their participation. Designed to both frustrate and thrill, the gachapon is a critique of gacha through the medium itself.
Ultimately, Love, Luck, Gacha weaves together anecdotes and critical perspectives to encourage audiences to ponder the complexities of gacha and by extension, the human drive to accumulate to no satisfying end.