Pinball Machine
What is a Pinball Machine?
A Pinball Machine comes from a family of games characterized by a a ball that is propelled into a specifically designed table. The ball bounces off specifically designed obstacles and scores points either in route. The player attempts to keep the ball in the obstacles where points can be scored using the flippers. If the ball passes the flippers then that round is over. The ball then returns to the ball launching mechanism
Characteristics of a Pinball Machine
Angled Board - This board contains all the components. The board is angled so that the ball rolls naturally down toward the flippers.
Launch Mechanism - This system serves to push the ball up to the top of the angled board. It typically is powered by a spring or rubber band. The player then pulls back on the handle and when the player releases the ball is pushed. This is also typically accompanied by a path to the top of the board which is angled to push it toward the obstacles once it reaches the top.
Obstacles - This is a series of objects and mechanisms that change the trajectory of the ball in any direction. They are sometimes also assigned point values so the player can reach a high score by hitting many obstacles
Flippers - These are controlled by the player. They move up to push the ball and ensure it continues to hit obstacles. There is also typically a gap between the flippers to allow the ball to potentially move past them to make the game more difficult.
Drain Walls - These walls funnel the ball toward the flipper and launch mechanism to ensure it can always be in play.
