claw machine

Definition

An arcade game featuring a mechanical claw that players control to grab stuffed animals or prizes inside a glass case, dropping coins or tokens to try to win. Often rigged with timing delays to favor the operator.

Example Usage

He wasted $20 trying to win a stuffed bear from the claw machine at the fair.

Fun Fact

Studies show claw machines are calibrated to give players roughly a 1-in-15 chance of winning, making them one of the least favorable casino-style games.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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