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Tom’s Hardware
Tom’s Hardware
Technology
Mark Tyson

Intel CPU-dispensing vending machine game spotted in Japan — one user got a Core i7-8700 for $3

Core i7-8700 gacha edition.

There are capsule toy machines in Japan that dispense Intel CPUs. As tweeted by @LaurieWired, one user who goes by the handle Sawara-San acquired an Intel Core i7-8700 CPU after inserting 500 Yen (around $3.25) and twisting the customary knob. The 'prize' CPU did appear to have some flaws, however.

The capsule toy vending machine is an example of a gacha or gasha machine, which are incredibly popular in Japan and other far-eastern countries (though you can also find them elsewhere). Normally, these machines contain small plastic toys, which are dispensed after the user inserts some cash and turns a knob. Machines typically have a theme like Hello Kitty or toy cars, so you know what kind of prize you'll receive but not the exact item.

In this case, the gacha machine is filled with Intel CPUs. It's not clear what other types of CPUs might be present, but presumably these could date back a decade or more. Or perhaps they're all parts that are not fully functional?

(Image credit: Sawara-San on YouTube)
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