Pinball has been an engaging game for decades, mixing skill and luck with a fast pace and astonishing visuals. From the physical tables to the mobile game, pinball has continued to engage players worldwide. Here are my five best pinball games of all time, from classic machines and digital experiences.
1. The Addams Family (1992)
Widely regarded as the best-selling pinball machine of all time, The Addams Family was designed by industry legends Pat Lawlor and Larry DeMar. Based on the hit movie, this table features voiceovers from stars like Raul Julia and Anjelica Huston, along with innovative mechanics like the “Thing” hand and the “Mansion” bonus. Its engaging gameplay and iconic theme make it a fan favorite to this day.
Why it’s iconic:
- First machine to use a dot-matrix display for animations.
- Introduced a complex but rewarding rule set that elevated the standard for pinball design.
2. Medieval Madness (1997)
Designed by Brian Eddy, Medieval Madness is often considered the top of pinball engineering. This medieval-themed table has humor, challenging goals, and awesome multiball modes. Players must destroy castles, joust knights, and battle trolls to become the “King of the Realm.”
Why it’s iconic:
- It has funny voice acting and an engaging storyline.
- Challenging gameplay that appeals to both newbies and seasoned players.
3. Twilight Zone (1993)
Another masterpiece from Pat Lawlor, Twilight Zone is an innovative pinball machine loved by collectors and players. Inspired by the classic TV series, the table features unique elements like the Powerball (a ceramic ball) and a gumball machine mechanism.
Why it’s iconic:
- Deep gameplay with countless modes to explore.
- A magnetic playfield that creates unexpected ball interactions.
4. Pinball FX3 (2017)
For fans of digital pinball, Pinball FX3 by Zen Studios is the gold standard. This platform offers something for everyone, featuring an extensive library of tables from original designs to licenses like Star Wars and Marvel. Advanced physics and stunning visuals make it a standout in the digital space.
Why it’s iconic:
- Regular updates and new table releases keep the experience fresh.
- Multiplayer modes and leaderboards foster a strong community.
5. Ghostbusters (2016)
Ghostbusters Pinball is a tribute to the film franchise. Designed by John Trudeau, this table features famous quotes, music, and visuals from the original movies. The game’s layout, including the infamous “PKE lanes,” provides a thrilling experience for players.
Why it’s iconic:
- Stunning artwork by pinball artist Jeremy Packer (a.k.a. Zombie Yeti).
- Innovative features like a magnetic Slimer toy and a “Stay Puft Marshmallow Man” mode.
Honorable Mentions
While these five games stand out, there are countless other great pinball games worth exploring, like Jurassic Park (2019), Attack from Mars (1995), and The Walking Dead (2014). Each brings its unique approach to the table genre.
Of course, one more
People will hate me if I did not mention one of the most famous games ever played: Space Cadet. It is not the best pinball game ever made, but as it was shipped with Windows from early times, it was the entry point for many players in the genre.
