Abstract: Laser-based and non-laser-based visual targeting systems for use with skill cranes and other amusement vending machines are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, an amusement vending machine includes a see-through enclosure containing at least one prize. A user-operable controller, such as a joystick, positioned on the outside of the enclosure is operably connected to a pick-up device, such as a claw, positioned within the enclosure. Selective operation of the controller causes the pick-up device to move within the enclosure and perform a prize pick-up maneuver. In one aspect of this embodiment, the amusement machine further includes a visual targeting system that provides a visual indication of the position of the pick-up device relative to the prize to assist the player in positioning the pick-up device before attempting the prize pick-up maneuver.

Abstract: Skill crane games and other amusement vending machines having display devices and other interactive features to enhance game play are disclosed herein. A skill crane game configured in accordance with one embodiment includes at least one prize positioned within a transparent enclosure. The skill crane game further includes a user-operated joystick operably coupled to a prize selecting device and a display device, such as a video screen, positioned within the enclosure. In one embodiment, the skill crane game allows a player to select a prize from multiple prizes displayed on the video screen, and the prize selecting device then obtains the prize for the player. In another embodiment, the skill crane game allows the player to play a video game on the video screen before attempting to obtain a prize with the prize selecting device. If the player wins the video game, the skill crane game can award prizes, such as bonus time, that affect the subsequent attempt to obtain a prize.