Arcade games transport us straight back to childhood, where we try desperately, using all our spare coins, to win a toy. The claw machine is one of the most popular games at the arcade, but it's also really hard to win on.

Using a joystick or buttons, players are supposed to guide the claw over their desired prize. As it plunges, seizes the item, and begins its ascent to glory, it all too often callously releases it just shy of the chute.

The agony of defeat is palpable when the fails to secure even the slightest grip on the toy. But not all hope is lost. An worker from @arcadefriends on has shared three ingenious tips that could help you win next time.

Contrary to what one might assume, they suggest dodging the larger areas of the plushie, opting instead for its minor parts. "In order to get a good grab it's important for the claw to completely close around the plush. This is impossible if you're aiming for a large part of the plush, like the head," they shared.

The arcade expert also recommending the "swinging" technique. According to this method, players must use the joystick to manoeuvre the mechanism into an optimal position, aiming for a part of the toy.

"By using the joystick in a swinging method, the expert was able to position the claw over the smaller part of the toy's body," revealed the proficient gamer on mastering the art of securing the much-desired prize.

Another tactic is the "double-tap" strategy which "allows you to stop the claw exactly where you want to". It involves pressing the grab button twice rapidly once the claw is right above the desired area.

For aspiring winners targeting plushies next to the exit chute, there is sage advice too. Attempt to position the claw "slightly over the prize chute in an attempt to drag or swing the plush over into the prize chute when it picks it up".

The gaming community has been buzzing with these revelations, expressing their amazement across social platforms. Dumbfounded by the possibility of control, one individual exclaimed on social media: "You can stop the claw...?".

Meanwhile, another ruefully reflected on past experiences: "Could've told me this before I spent $34 [£27] trying to get a plushie [sulk]."

Revelatory as they were to some, another admitted: "I always thought you had to aim for the biggest part."

For UK players, further guidance comes from a local aficionado who suggested: "For those in the UK, I recommend swinging the closest plush into the hole, some claws do not grab at all and based on how many goes have been played, if the claw doesn't grab or close, its not ready."