When you approach a colorful toy crane machine, the big question is: are those enticing plush toys and gadgets inside already paid for, or is there an extra cost? The direct answer is that the prizes are included in the cost of your plays. You do not pay separately for the prize itself if you successfully win it.

Here’s how it works: You insert money or tokens to purchase attempts (plays) to operate the crane. The cost per play is your entry fee for a chance to win. The value of the potential prize is built into the machine's overall operational economics. If your skill (and sometimes a bit of machine-set luck) allows you to capture and retrieve a prize, it is yours to keep at no additional charge. The play cost covers it.

However, it's crucial to understand that paying for plays does not guarantee a win. The challenge and fun lie in the skill-based gameplay. Some venues also have "redemption" style machines where you win tickets instead of a direct prize. These tickets are then exchanged separately at a counter for items, which is a different model.

So, to be clear: You pay for the attempts, not the prize directly. A successful grab means the prize is included. Always check the machine's instructions for the specific rules of the game you're playing. Good luck, and may your claw be steady