The coin would fall inside and land on a lever. Under the weight of the coin, the lever went down, pulling a string. The string was attached to a plug that opened a valve, allowing the container to dispense holy water. So Hero's invention was not a snack machine - it was designed to prevent people from taking more than their fair share of holy water, which had apparently been a problem in temples up to that point.
Japan is well-known for its vending machine culture, and this new management sim is putting you in charge of your own Japanese vending machine empire. You can choose which neighborhood to put your machines in, and what to stock them with, with different demographics of customers likely to purchase different stock. While Vending Machine Co. follows the classic management sim formula, its cute illustrative style and satisfying restocking gameplay is reminiscent of cozy indie hit Unpacking.
The vending machine industry in 2025 is diversifying, integrating technology, emphasizing health and sustainability, and witnessing the rise of micro markets in various settings.