Pinball Wizards: Classic Rock Keeps the Silver Ball Rolling in Las Vegas
Imagine you’re in Las Vegas, surrounded by the constant ka-ching of slot machines, the shuffling of cards, and the occasional victory whoop from a craps table.
But wait, what’s that familiar sound cutting through the casino cacophony? Is it... could it be... the unmistakable clang of a pinball plunger launching a shiny silver ball into action? You bet your last quarter it is!
While our city might be famous for its one-armed bandits, another game in town’s been quietly (or not so quietly) staging a comeback. It’s loud, proud, and has more flashing lights than a UFO crash-landing on the Strip.
Ladies and gentlemen, let’s talk pinball!
[caption id="attachment_61007" align="aligncenter" width="768"]
All Photos: Staci Layne Wilson[/caption]
Once upon a time, in a galaxy far, far away (okay, it was just New York City in the 1940s), pinball was Public Enemy Number One. Mayor Fiorello La Guardia, clearly not a fan of fun, declared these silver-balled beauties a menace to society. His reasons? Take your pick:
For over 30 years, pinball machines were the bad boys of the arcade world. But in 1976, a brave pinball wizard stepped up to the New York City Council and proved that pinball was a game of skill, not chance. And just like that, pinball was back in business!
Now, what do you get when you combine two former outcasts of society? A match made in heaven, of course! Pinball and rock music have been best buddies since 1969, thanks to The Who and their groundbreaking rock opera “Tommy.” (However, there was a Beatles machine released in 1966.)
The Who’s relationship with pinball didn't stop at just singing about it. They’ve actually had two different pinball machines dedicated to Tommy, proving that even in the world of arcade games, sequels can sometimes rock just as hard as the original.
First up was the 1975 Bally table, released to coincide with the film version of “Tommy.” This machine let players live out their pinball wizard fantasies right as Roger Daltrey’s luscious locks were gracing the silver screen.
But The Who weren’t done yet. In 1994, Data East released a second Tommy-themed machine to promote the Broadway adaptation of the rock opera. This newer version had some nifty features like blinders covering the flippers (because Tommy plays by sense of smell or something like that) and an awesome soundtrack pulled straight from The Who’s discography.
It’s about as close as you can get to playing pinball with Pete Townshend without risking a guitar to the head.
There’s also “Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy,” the 1976 Bally machine themed after Elton John’s album. While not directly related to Tommy, it’s worth mentioning as another iconic rock-themed pinball machine of the era. Plus, it features Elton in some genuinely spectacular glasses, which alone is worth the price of admission.
Since then, rock bands have lined up to get their mugs on pinball machines faster than groupies at a backstage door. From The Beatles to KISS, Guns N’ Roses to Metallica, these machines are like a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame you can actually play with.
Gone are the days of simple bumpers and flippers. Today’s pinball machines are technological marvels. Take the Foo Fighters machine, for example. It’s not just a game; it’s a full-blown rock concert in a box. With songs spanning their entire career, it’s like having Dave Grohl in your living room.
And let’s not forget about the newest additions to the pinball pantheon. We’re talking Rush (for when you want to feel like Neil Peart with flippers), Spinal Tap (perfect for those who need their pinball to go to 11), Led Zeppelin (stairway to pinball heaven, anyone?), and... ABBA. Okay, maybe that last one doesn't exactly ‘rock’ in the traditional sense, but hey, if you dig “Dancing Queen,” who are we to judge? (Oh, and there’s a new Queen machine, too!)
These new tables aren’t just games; they’re time machines. One minute, you’re standing in a Vegas arcade; the next, you’re in the front row at a concert that would’ve cost you a kidney to attend in real life. Just don’t blame us if you start headbanging so hard you miss the ball. It’s all part of the experience, man.
Now, where can a pinball enthusiast get their fix in the city that never sleeps (except maybe between 6 and 10 am)? Fear not, for Las Vegas has you covered. Here’s your ultimate guide to pinball paradise in Sin City:
Want to escape the madness of the Strip without actually leaving it? Head to AREA15 and find sanctuary in the Asylum. With a full bar focusing on local craft beers, you can sip on some suds while showing off your pinball skills. And if you’re feeling courageous, join one of their IFPA-certified tournaments.
Ever wanted to play pinball in a place that sounds like it could be a CIA front? Look no further than Diversion Amusements! With themes ranging from “Stranger Things” to “Ghostbusters,” you can bust ghosts and explore the Upside Down, all while never leaving Las Vegas. The best part? All games are free.
Don’t let the name fool you—this isn’t just about pool. With ten pinball machines on location, you can rack ’em up and flip ’em out all in one place. And if you get thirsty, their full bar has got you covered. Just try not to mix up your cue stick with the pinball plunger.
Step into Player 1, and you’ve entered gamer heaven. With a cover charge that gives you access to free-play games, you can pinball to your heart’s content. Sip on themed cocktails while you play—may we suggest the “Game Over” for when you’ve had one too many balls down the drain?
This is it, folks—the Holy Grail of pinball. With one of the largest collections in the US, it’s like Disneyland for pinball wizards. Sure, some machines might be a little worse for wear, but isn’t that part of the charm? It’s like playing through pinball history, sticky flippers and all.
For those who like their pinball with a side of esports, Velocity is your jam. With an all-ages, family-friendly vibe, it’s perfect for introducing the next generation to the joys of flipper-flipping. And with both cocktails and mocktails available, everyone can toast to their high scores.
So there you have it—your guide to riding the silver ball in the city of sin. Whether you’re a pinball wizard or a newcomer to the game, Las Vegas has something for everyone.
Just remember: what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas—except for your high scores. Those you can brag about all the way home.
But wait, what’s that familiar sound cutting through the casino cacophony? Is it... could it be... the unmistakable clang of a pinball plunger launching a shiny silver ball into action? You bet your last quarter it is!
While our city might be famous for its one-armed bandits, another game in town’s been quietly (or not so quietly) staging a comeback. It’s loud, proud, and has more flashing lights than a UFO crash-landing on the Strip.
Ladies and gentlemen, let’s talk pinball!
[caption id="attachment_61007" align="aligncenter" width="768"]
All Photos: Staci Layne Wilson[/caption]From Outlaws to Rock Stars
Once upon a time, in a galaxy far, far away (okay, it was just New York City in the 1940s), pinball was Public Enemy Number One. Mayor Fiorello La Guardia, clearly not a fan of fun, declared these silver-balled beauties a menace to society. His reasons? Take your pick:
- Gambling (nothing says "high stakes" like flipping a metal ball around)
- Organized crime (the pinball mafia was a real thing, apparently)
- Wasting precious war resources (those balls could’ve been bullets!)
- Robbing children (of their lunch money and, presumably, their innocence)
- Mob racket (because why not throw in another crime reference?)
For over 30 years, pinball machines were the bad boys of the arcade world. But in 1976, a brave pinball wizard stepped up to the New York City Council and proved that pinball was a game of skill, not chance. And just like that, pinball was back in business!
Rock ‘n’ Roll Meets the Silver Ball
Now, what do you get when you combine two former outcasts of society? A match made in heaven, of course! Pinball and rock music have been best buddies since 1969, thanks to The Who and their groundbreaking rock opera “Tommy.” (However, there was a Beatles machine released in 1966.)
The Who’s relationship with pinball didn't stop at just singing about it. They’ve actually had two different pinball machines dedicated to Tommy, proving that even in the world of arcade games, sequels can sometimes rock just as hard as the original.
First up was the 1975 Bally table, released to coincide with the film version of “Tommy.” This machine let players live out their pinball wizard fantasies right as Roger Daltrey’s luscious locks were gracing the silver screen.
But The Who weren’t done yet. In 1994, Data East released a second Tommy-themed machine to promote the Broadway adaptation of the rock opera. This newer version had some nifty features like blinders covering the flippers (because Tommy plays by sense of smell or something like that) and an awesome soundtrack pulled straight from The Who’s discography.
It’s about as close as you can get to playing pinball with Pete Townshend without risking a guitar to the head.
There’s also “Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy,” the 1976 Bally machine themed after Elton John’s album. While not directly related to Tommy, it’s worth mentioning as another iconic rock-themed pinball machine of the era. Plus, it features Elton in some genuinely spectacular glasses, which alone is worth the price of admission.
Since then, rock bands have lined up to get their mugs on pinball machines faster than groupies at a backstage door. From The Beatles to KISS, Guns N’ Roses to Metallica, these machines are like a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame you can actually play with.
Modern Marvels: Not Your Grandpa’s Pinball
Gone are the days of simple bumpers and flippers. Today’s pinball machines are technological marvels. Take the Foo Fighters machine, for example. It’s not just a game; it’s a full-blown rock concert in a box. With songs spanning their entire career, it’s like having Dave Grohl in your living room.
And let’s not forget about the newest additions to the pinball pantheon. We’re talking Rush (for when you want to feel like Neil Peart with flippers), Spinal Tap (perfect for those who need their pinball to go to 11), Led Zeppelin (stairway to pinball heaven, anyone?), and... ABBA. Okay, maybe that last one doesn't exactly ‘rock’ in the traditional sense, but hey, if you dig “Dancing Queen,” who are we to judge? (Oh, and there’s a new Queen machine, too!)
These new tables aren’t just games; they’re time machines. One minute, you’re standing in a Vegas arcade; the next, you’re in the front row at a concert that would’ve cost you a kidney to attend in real life. Just don’t blame us if you start headbanging so hard you miss the ball. It’s all part of the experience, man.
Vegas: Where Pinball Never Sleeps
Now, where can a pinball enthusiast get their fix in the city that never sleeps (except maybe between 6 and 10 am)? Fear not, for Las Vegas has you covered. Here’s your ultimate guide to pinball paradise in Sin City:
Asylum Bar + Arcade (3215 S Rancho Dr. STE 105)
Want to escape the madness of the Strip without actually leaving it? Head to AREA15 and find sanctuary in the Asylum. With a full bar focusing on local craft beers, you can sip on some suds while showing off your pinball skills. And if you’re feeling courageous, join one of their IFPA-certified tournaments.
Diversion Amusements (5321 Cameron Street)
Ever wanted to play pinball in a place that sounds like it could be a CIA front? Look no further than Diversion Amusements! With themes ranging from “Stranger Things” to “Ghostbusters,” you can bust ghosts and explore the Upside Down, all while never leaving Las Vegas. The best part? All games are free.
Good Timez Billiards (5740 W Charleston Blvd)
Don’t let the name fool you—this isn’t just about pool. With ten pinball machines on location, you can rack ’em up and flip ’em out all in one place. And if you get thirsty, their full bar has got you covered. Just try not to mix up your cue stick with the pinball plunger.
Player 1 Video Game Bar (2797 South Maryland Parkway)
Step into Player 1, and you’ve entered gamer heaven. With a cover charge that gives you access to free-play games, you can pinball to your heart’s content. Sip on themed cocktails while you play—may we suggest the “Game Over” for when you’ve had one too many balls down the drain?
Pinball Hall of Fame (4925 S Las Vegas Blvd)
This is it, folks—the Holy Grail of pinball. With one of the largest collections in the US, it’s like Disneyland for pinball wizards. Sure, some machines might be a little worse for wear, but isn’t that part of the charm? It’s like playing through pinball history, sticky flippers and all.
Velocity Esports (6587 Las Vegas Blvd S Ste 171)
For those who like their pinball with a side of esports, Velocity is your jam. With an all-ages, family-friendly vibe, it’s perfect for introducing the next generation to the joys of flipper-flipping. And with both cocktails and mocktails available, everyone can toast to their high scores.
So there you have it—your guide to riding the silver ball in the city of sin. Whether you’re a pinball wizard or a newcomer to the game, Las Vegas has something for everyone.
Just remember: what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas—except for your high scores. Those you can brag about all the way home.