Claw arcade opens in RR despite chilly air

RIO RANCHO — Snow on the ground and freezing temperatures didn't stop hundreds of families from attending the grand opening for Boba Catch Jan. 25.

As a claw machine arcade where people can get ramen and boba, Boba Catch is something Rio Rancho has not seen before.

Owner Tracy Nguyen and her team were overwhelmed but pleased Sunday as the rows of machines were occupied with people. 

"We wanted to introduce a new kind of experience to New Mexico — one that combines culture, creativity and fun under one roof," Nguyen said.

The opening was grand indeed with the crowd in attendance, but Boba Catch also held a ribbon cutting and hosted A performance in front of the store to celebrate.

In a surprising turn of events, the Quang Minh Lion Dance Team had their fun taking "bites" out of customers. The colorful display brought a bit of culture to the event.

Inside, kids and adults could be heard shouting in victory when they grabbed hold of a plushie they wanted. A few were lucky to get giant teddy bears. Prizes in the machines as well as at the prize bar included recognizable character plushies like Hello Kitty and Labubu. There were also a few non-claw games that earned the player tickets to exchange for prizes.

"Our claw machines are skill-based arcade games designed to be fun and fair. We intentionally set our machines to win more often than most arcades — but like any game, skill and timing matter," a Boba Catch Facebook post reads.

While the crowd was mostly made up of children and families, adults had their fun, too.

Drinks at the arcade range from coffee to tea to smoothies and more. People can also get Korean ramen kits to be cooked at home with customizable toppings.

"Boba Catch is more than drinks and games; it's about building connection and creating a destination families can enjoy together," Nguyen said.

The small business is located in the old Hastings building in the Hilltop Plaza area.