The irresistible aroma of durian now wafts from claw machines in Singapore! Reappearing this year after its debut last year, the durian claw machine frenzy has returned, drawing skilled enthusiasts to test their luck. Last night, two individuals managed to grab nine large durians for just under 50 SGD (about 174 MYR).

With durian season in full swing, the pungent scent permeates various locations across Singapore. A business owner first introduced durians into claw machines last year, enticing numerous people to try their luck.

The same proprietor has now "rebooted" the durian claw machine at the night market outside Yishun MRT station. The setup includes four machines: two filled with small Musang King durians (under 900 grams) and the other two stocked with durians weighing 1-2 kilograms of various varieties. Each attempt costs two tokens, with one token being exchangeable for 1 SGD (about 3.50 MYR).

Their durians come from a newly partnered orchard in Tangkak, Johor. After sampling the durians last week, they were impressed with the quality and decided to collaborate. Every night, the orchard delivers five to six baskets of durians to the night market. The varieties include Kampong Durian, Musang King from AB, D13, Janghai, and 101.

Last night, a duo captivated the crowds' attention. A logistics manager and a teenager successfully grabbed nine large durians for under 50 SGD. The logistics manager, a claw machine enthusiast for 20 years, initially honed his skills in arcades. With the durian craze in full swing and too many plush toys at home, he turned his focus to the night market's durian claw machines.

"There's no real trick, but strategy and luck play a part. If you're fortunate, you can grab a durian in two tries. If the position is off, you need to use the claw to push and angle it correctly," he explained.

The pair, who met at the night market and now often team up to grab durians, visit three to four times a week, always leaving with their arms full. Their skills have attracted a lot of attention from onlookers.

The teenager shared that he's now tired of eating durians he grabbed himself. Occasionally, he trades them at the night market for other foods or sells them to vendors. Last night, he traded a durian for 5 SGD (about 17 MYR) coconut water. Coconut water stall employees said he almost daily visits the market, gifting them a durian in exchange for a cup of coconut water last night.

When asked if the presence of skilled players affects profits, the business owner admitted that some customers manage to grab large durians within a few tries. However, the claw machines also attract many novices, balancing out the overall revenue.