The Best Pinball Machines of All Time

Ranking pinball machines from the best to the worst makes as little sense as ranking music or literature: it’s ridiculous to think that taste is uniform. Nonetheless, since others are also doing it, why not us? At the absolute least, it allows us to steer new Pinheads toward pinballs that have demonstrated their worth over time.

The following are what we think are the some of best pinball machines of all time. Note that this is not a ranked list, but rather a curated collection of our favorites.

1) Twilight Zone (1993): This machine is based on a popular TV show of the same name and features an array of unique playfield toys and gimmicks. It’s widely considered one of the best-designed pinball machines of all time, and its popularity has only grown in recent years.

2) The Addams Family (1992): Another TV tie-in, this machine is based on the beloved sitcom starring Gomez, Morticia, Uncle Fester, and company. It features fantastic artwork and detailed sculptures of the characters, as well as a great soundtrack featuring the show’s theme song.

3) The Lord of the Rings (2003): This machine was released in conjunction with the third movie in Peter Jackson’s trilogy, and it features an impressive array of playfield toys inspired by scenes from the film. It also has an excellent sound system that brings the movie’s score to life.

4) Medieval Madness (1997): This machine is set in the middle ages and features a castle-themed playfield with a drawbridge, moat, and other cool features. It’s widely considered one of the most fun pinball machines ever made, and its popularity has only increased in recent years.

5) Attack From Mars (1995): This machine is set in the 1950s and features an alien invasion theme. It’s loaded with cool features, including a martian head that pops up from time to time, and has a great soundtrack featuring classic 50s tunes.

6) The Phantom of the Opera (1990): This machine is based on the popular Andrew Lloyd Webber musical, and features a number of playfield toys inspired by scenes from the show. It’s a bit of an acquired taste, but those who love it swear by its greatness.

7) The Getaway: High Speed II (1992): This machine is based on the popular arcade game of the same name, and features a number of cool cars that you can race around the playfield. It’s fast, furious, and a whole lot of fun.

8) Taxi (1988): This machine is based on the popular TV show “Taxi,” and features a number of playfield toys inspired by the show. It’s a bit of an acquired taste, but those who love it swear by its greatness.

9) The Simpsons Pinball Party (2003): This machine is based on the popular TV show “The Simpsons,” and features a number of playfield toys inspired by the show. It’s loaded with great features and includes an interactive LCD display that allows you to play along with Homer, Marge, Bart, and Lisa.

10) Star Wars Episode I (1999): This machine is based on the first movie in George Lucas’ prequel trilogy, and features a number of playfield toys inspired by scenes from the film. It’s not as good as some of the other Star Wars-themed pinball machines, but it’s still a lot of fun.

These are just a few of the best pinball machines of all time. If you find any of these pinball machines for sale or just happen upon them be sure to give them a play.  Check out some of the best pinball in St. George. If you are in the market for a new pinball machine, these are the machines that have stood the test of time. Be sure to check out Quality Billiards for the best pinball machines for sale in Utah.