Originally Posted by
Sesquipedalian
I would also like to add that the claw game is ALWAYS rigged to be too weak. There is something called a yellow box inside that only supplies the voltage needed to pick up a prize at specific intervals. I would think that it would be about twice the plays that are needed to pay off for the average toy inside. (If the toys are worth 5 dollars, then it only allows every tenth to win if the price is a dollar a play.) This can be circumvented.
Watch a machine that has something you want, and wait for two wins. The space between the wins is probably going to be the same. Wait the required number of plays, and move in. Only go for something on top; the toys are purposefully wedged in somewhat, so go for something totally freed of the others. Try to be close to the drop point, too. Thus, you have a high chance of winning. If you still lose due to the claw being too weak, go once more, then walk away.