TRADGI-COMEDY

Story dated 2nd March 2002.

It's called the home of civilisation, but the goings-on in Greece are anything but civilised.

On the 22nd February 2002 the Greek government passed a law that outlawed all coin-operated amusement games. The only exemptions are children's rides, pool tables and football (or foosball) tables.

As a result, over 2,000 arcades have closed down and over 10,000 machines have been turned off.

There has been a problem with the number of illegal, unlicensed machines in operation but the licence costs €900 per game so the temptation to run them is high. These illegal games have become the focus of a media campaign across the country and this has led to the new draconian legislation. Police have been confiscating games and closing down arcades.

Greece had always been a hot spot for pinball games in Europe and it is a popular European holiday destination due to it's good weather and great geographical features. The amusement industry there forms and important part of the tourism and the removal of so many games will lead to some bored children and adults alike not to mention the unemployment and the damage to the economy.

The trade organisation, the Panhellenic Union of Billiard and Arcade Owners are holding emergency meetings with government officials to try and secure a review of the
decision.

 

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