If you’ve ever been to an arcade, you’ve definitely seen a claw machine. They’re one of the most popular games around, and their popularity has spread to supermarkets, restaurants, movie theaters, and even bowling alleys. But how did the claw machine become so widespread? Where did it all begin? Let’s take a trip back in time to uncover the claw machine history.
The Origins of Claw Machines: 1890s
The claw machine’s origins are surprisingly linked to the construction of the Panama Canal. Back in the late 19th century, the mighty steam shovel captivated the world as it helped to build this incredible feat of engineering. The steam shovel, with its powerful arm and ability to move massive amounts of earth, inspired the early claw machines.
The Early Days of Claw Machines: 1920s
The first mass-produced claw machines hit the market in the 1920s, modeled after those grand steam shovels. These early machines were encased in glass and wood, and they featured candy as prizes. Players had three minutes to try their luck, swinging the shovel in a wide arc to try and scoop up the candy. Skill was key, and those who mastered the game had a better chance at winning.
A New Era of Claw Machines: The 1930s
The Erie Canal, another impressive feat of engineering, inspired a new wave of claw machines called the “Erie Diggers.” These machines found their way into bus stations, carnivals, and drugstores, even landing spots in luxury hotels thanks to their sophisticated walnut and mahogany construction. However, these models were expensive to produce, and they didn’t generate much profit.
The Birth of a Profitable Design
Enter William Bartlett, a clever carnival operator. He figured out a way to make the claw machine both affordable and profitable. He patented the “Nickel Digger,” which used coins to activate each round, ensuring that the machine generated revenue. Bartlett also used an electric motor to shorten playing times, allowing more players to take a turn. He even had the brilliant idea of renting out the machines instead of selling them.
The Crackdown of Industry:1950s
The 1950s brought a setback for the booming claw machine industry. In 1951, the Johnson Act classified the claw machine as a gambling device, putting a halt to its development, at least in the United States.
But the claw machine wouldn’t be silenced. Lee Moss and other recreation owners banded together and lobbied for the game’s return. It took two long years, but they finally succeeded. However, claw machines were only allowed back if the coin receptors were removed, and if they were no longer powered by electricity. This meant that the machines became less automated, but the industry continued to operate, albeit at a slower pace.
The Global Rise: 1960s and Beyond
While the United States was grappling with regulations, the claw machine, under the name of the “claw crane,” was booming in Asia and Europe. It became particularly popular in Japan during the 1960s, leading to the creation of the “UFO Catcher,” a unique adaptation of the game that spread across Asia.
As the claw machine’s popularity grew overseas, the American regulations became increasingly irrelevant. By the 1970s, the laws were essentially abandoned, and by the 1980s, claw machines were making a triumphant comeback in Pizza Huts.
The Revival: 1980s and Beyond
Pizza Huts marked the beginning of a major revival for the claw machine. Companies saw the potential to engage their fans through the game, and they began customizing the machines to their brands. The NBA, for example, introduced claw machines that featured medals and jerseys as prizes.
The 1990s witnessed a surge in claw machine popularity, spreading from the United States to Asia. This growth has continued to the present day, making the claw machine one of the most beloved games in the world.
The Enduring Legacy of the Claw Machine
The claw machine’s journey from its steam shovel-inspired origins to its global dominance is a testament to its enduring appeal. It’s a game that combines skill with a touch of luck, making it both challenging and entertaining. And the claw machine has continuously evolved, incorporating new technologies and designs, ensuring that it remains a popular fixture in entertainment venues around the globe.
Conclusion
The claw machine’s journey from its humble beginnings as a “grabber” game to its present-day status as a global entertainment staple is an intriguing story of invention, innovation, and enduring appeal. It’s a testament to the power of simple, yet compelling gameplay and a reminder that sometimes, the greatest ideas can come from the most unassuming of beginnings.
So, the next time you see a claw machine, take a moment to appreciate its history. It’s a game with a rich past, and one that will likely continue to entertain and captivate generations to come.
FAQs
- Who invented the claw machine? Determining the sole inventor of the claw machine is tricky. Multiple individuals were working on similar designs, and the earliest versions, like the “grabber” game, were quite basic.
- When were claw machines invented? The first claw machines, as we know them, appeared in the early 1890s. However, the “grabber” games, their predecessors, debuted in the 1930s.
- What are the different types of claw machines? Claw machines come in various forms, ranging from traditional arcade machines to more modern, themed versions. Some popular variations include those with giant plush toys, small candy-filled machines, and even machines featuring unique prizes like electronics or jewelry.
- Where can I buy a claw machine for my business? Many online claw machine manufacturers and specialized arcade supply companies offer claw machine arcade for sale. You can also find commercial claw machines for sale at amusement park equipment suppliers or online marketplaces.
- Are claw machines still popular? Absolutely! Claw machines remain a beloved entertainment option, with a dedicated fanbase and a steady stream of new designs and games. They can be found in arcades, amusement parks, malls, and even some restaurants and bars.
