Go and Grab
New arcade with 25 claw machines challenges San Antonio
San Antonio arcade lovers with a competitive spirit will soon have a niche new challenge to try. Klaw Time, an arcade based solely on claw machines, will debut at 1324 Southwest Military Dr. on January 11.
Claw games are something just about anyone can recognize: the player directs a metal "claw" over a prize they want, and hopes that the weak grip catches the item in just the right way to pick it up and drop it in the chute going out.
They're usually packed with plush toys, and most of these machines follow that convention. The 25 machines include prizes for all ages, according to a release, including the classic 8-inch stuffed friends. But two specialty machines with a higher buy-in present more difficult "cut-the-rope" challenges for higher-value prizes like a Nintendo Switch or an e-bike.
Plus, there's good news for people who were lucky enough to win, but aren't attached to the prizes they got. Players can trade up their prizes between different value tiers.
“We’re thrilled to bring this concept to the city of San Antonio,” said co-owner of Klaw Time Alex Hong in the release. “Our goal is to create a space where families can connect, have a blast, and take home prizes they’re excited about. We want everyone who comes here to leave with a smile.”
Instead of coins, the machines will operate on cards pre-loaded with credits. According to the website, $10 buys 40 credits, and the more credits a player buys, the less they cost. However, the release says one play on the standard machines is $1, and a play on the specialty machines is $5.
“With three kids of my own, I know how important it is to create affordable, quality fun that the whole family can enjoy,” said Hong. “We’re not just another arcade; Klaw Time is a place where everyone can feel the excitement of winning and share in memorable experiences.”
Klaw Time will be open Sundays through Thursdays from 11 am to 9 pm, and Fridays and Saturdays from 11 am to 11 pm.