It's a frustrating moment familiar to many: the claw picks up your desired prize, carries it towards the chute, and then... it gets stuck. The prize dangles precariously or wedges itself just out of reach. Don't panic or shake the machine aggressively, as this can damage it or get you in trouble. Here are practical steps to try.

First, gently tap or nudge the glass near where the prize is stuck. Sometimes a slight vibration is enough to dislodge it. If there's a joystick or button, try moving the claw to gently push or tap the stuck item. Be careful not to entangle the prize further.

If the prize is near the drop chute, ask the arcade attendant or store staff for help. They usually have keys and can open the machine to manually retrieve your prize. They see this often and are typically happy to assist a polite customer.

When the prize is truly irretrievable, politely explain the situation to staff and ask for a refund of your plays or a token for a free try on another machine. Most reputable locations have policies for such malfunctions.

For future plays, observe how prizes are stacked. Avoid aiming for items piled too high or leaning against the chute wall, as they are more likely to get stuck. Aim for items closer to the center and lower in the pile.

Remember, crane machines are games of skill mixed with chance. A stuck prize is a common glitch, but with calm actions and courteous communication, you can often find a solution.