Revenge from Mars Pinball Machine, released in 1999, is a unique pinball experience designed by Brian Eddy and produced by Bally/Williams. This introduction immerses readers in a unique and compelling narrative, delving into the details of this game’s history and development.
The game is set in the Martian landscape, where the player must navigate a robotic spacecraft and face robotic enemies. The gameplay is enhanced by the use of ramps, drains, and multiball, adding an exciting level of challenge to the game.
Revenge from Mars Pinball Machine Overview
The Revenge from Mars pinball machine was first released by Bally/Williams in 1999. It was designed by Pat Lawlor, who is known for his work on other classic pinball machines like The Addams Family and Monster Bash. The game was originally released with a Mars-themed cabinet and playfield, featuring a Martian landscape with iconic red rock formations and eerie desert landscapes.
In comparison to other pinball machines from the same era, Revenge from Mars is notable for its unique layout and rules. The game features a modular design, with multiple ramps and loops that create a sense of depth and visual interest. The playfield is divided into several distinct areas, each with its own set of rules and objectives.
Mars Landscape Cabinet
The Revenge from Mars cabinet is designed to resemble the Martian landscape, with a red and orange color scheme and intricate details like rocky formations and desert winds. The artwork features a haunting desert landscape, complete with towering rock formations and eerie shadows.
[Image description: The Revenge from Mars cabinet features a Martian landscape with red rock formations and eerie desert landscapes. The artwork is highly detailed, with intricate shadows and lighting effects. The cabinet is a deep red color, with a distinctive textured finish that resembles the rough surface of Mars.]
Playfield Features
The Revenge from Mars playfield is divided into several distinct areas, each with its own set of rules and objectives. The playfield features multiple ramps, loops, and targets, which create a sense of depth and visual interest. The game also includes several unique features, such as the “Mars Worm” and the “Mars Lander,” which add to the game’s replay value.
[Image description: The Revenge from Mars playfield features multiple ramps, loops, and targets, which create a sense of depth and visual interest. The game includes several unique features, such as the “Mars Worm” and the “Mars Lander,” which add to the game’s replay value.]
Gameplay Mechanics
The Revenge from Mars gameplay mechanics are centered around the Martian landscape, with players taking on the role of a space explorer who must navigate the harsh Martian environment to achieve victory. The game features a series of challenges and objectives, including collecting Martian resources, escaping from the Martian Worm, and landing the Mars Lander safely.
The game also includes several unique rules and features, such as the “Thermal Shock” and the “Dust Storm,” which add to the game’s replay value and challenge players to think strategically.
Design and Features
The Revenge from Mars pinball machine is a visually striking representation of a science fiction world, transporting players to a barren Martian landscape. The game’s artwork is a fusion of industrial and retro-futuristic elements, creating a captivating atmosphere that draws players in. Towering in the background is a Martian cityscape with twisted metal pipes and crumbling buildings, a stark contrast to the game’s robotic enemies that roam the board.
The game’s rules and objectives are centered around three primary modes: the Martian Landscape, the Robot Uprising, and the Final Confrontation. Players must navigate the board, collecting energy and completing objectives to progress through these modes, ultimately unlocking the final showdown with the robot overlord. A key element of the game is the “Revenge” target, which, when hit, awards bonus points and initiates a brief time period during which all shots are considered “revenge” and worth double points.
Themes and Artwork
The Martian landscape, a central theme in the game, is depicted in a striking, albeit unsettling, way. Imagine vast, barren, dusty terrain with jagged rocky formations rising from the ground and twisted metal ruins in the distance, a testament to some long-forgotten battle.
The robotic enemies that roam the board are a perfect contrast to this eerie landscape. These mechanical beings embody the destructive force of a robot uprising, a theme that echoes through much of the game’s narrative. As the player progresses, they’ll encounter more and more of these machines, each with its own unique abilities and challenges. This visual and thematic combination adds to the game’s sense of tension and immersion.
Game Rules and Objectives
At its core, the Revenge from Mars pinball machine is all about progression through its three main modes: the Martian Landscape, the Robot Uprising, and the Final Confrontation. The Martian Landscape mode is a time-based play mode where players must collect as many energy balls as they can to score points and progress. When energy runs low, the mode ends, and players are awarded points based on their performance.
The Robot Uprising mode introduces an enemy that roams the board, attacking the player at random. Each shot at this robot awards points and gives the player a chance to earn bonus rewards. However, failing to stop the robot results in a penalty, adding another layer of complexity to the game.
As the player progresses, they’ll reach the Final Confrontation, a showdown against the robot overlord. This mode is all about strategy, as players must use all their skills and knowledge to stop the robot and secure their victory. The game’s rules and objectives are designed to challenge players and keep them engaged throughout.
Sound Design and Music
The sound design and music in Revenge from Mars are a key element in creating the game’s immersive atmosphere. A haunting soundtrack plays throughout the game, perfectly capturing the eerie, otherworldly ambiance of the Martian landscape and the robot uprising. The sound effects are equally impressive, from the sound of the robotic enemies clanking across the board to the eerie, pulsing sounds that accompany the energy balls. Overall, the sound design and music work together to create a captivating experience that draws players in and refuses to let go.
Game Modes
There are three game modes in Revenge from Mars: the Martian Landscape, the Robot Uprising, and the Final Confrontation. Each mode has its own unique mechanics and challenges.
In the Martian Landscape mode, players must collect energy balls to score points and progress. Time is limited, and failing to collect enough energy will end the mode and result in a penalty.
The Robot Uprising mode introduces a rogue robot that roams the board, attacking the player at random. Each shot at the robot awards points and gives the player a chance to earn bonus rewards.
The Final Confrontation is the final showdown against the robot overlord. Players must use all their skills and knowledge to stop the robot and secure their victory.
Gameplay Mechanics
Revenge from Mars, a classic pinball machine, offers an immersive experience with intricate rules and objectives. The game requires players to master the mechanics of ball movement and circulation, utilizing ramps and drains to navigate the playfield. As players progress, they will encounter various modes and objectives that demand strategy and skill to succeed.
The Ball Movement and Circulation System
The Revenge from Mars playfield features a large, curved ramp in the upper left corner, which serves as a primary entry point for the ball. From here, the ball can flow through various channels and return to the playing field through the left drain. Key drain locations include the main drain and the upper drain, with the main drain serving as the primary outflow point. The use of ramps and drains requires players to develop a keen sense of timing and spatial awareness.
Importance of Multiball
Multiball is a critical component of Revenge from Mars, significantly impacting gameplay and challenging players to adapt their strategies. By activating multiball, players face an increased number of balls on the playfield, forcing them to manage their shots more efficiently and prioritize the allocation of their time and resources. To achieve this, players often employ specialized equipment and techniques, such as ball juggling and precise shot placement.
Variety of Modes and Objectives
Throughout the game, players will participate in numerous modes and objectives, including the iconic “Revenge” target and the intense “Martian Invasion” mode. These challenges frequently demand precise shot placement and a deep understanding of the ball path mechanics.
In the “Revenge” target mode, players must carefully aim at specific targets scattered across the playing field, navigating through a narrow, winding ramp system to access these objectives. Successful completion unlocks the mode, awarding players substantial rewards and progress points.
The “Martian Invasion” mode takes place in the upper right-hand corner of the playfield, where players face an influx of Martian-themed targets and enemies, each with unique attributes and rules. The objective is to eliminate these invaders, gradually advancing the mode’s progression.
In both modes, accuracy, patience, and strategic decision-making become crucial components of the game, as players strive to achieve higher scores and rewards.
Revenge Target Characteristics
- The Revenge target features a distinctive design, often depicted as a futuristic, curved target with a prominent arrowhead.
- In the Revenge mode, players are awarded a high score multiplier for successfully landing shots.
- This mode rewards patience and accuracy, requiring players to carefully plan their shots and execute precise placements to achieve the target.
Martian Invasion Mode Mechanics
- The Martian Invasion mode takes place in the upper right-hand corner of the playfield, where players will encounter Martian-themed targets and enemies.
- Successful completion of the mode awards high rewards and progress points.
- The game requires players to think strategically, making swift decisions to take down the Martian invasion.
- Players are expected to navigate the complex system of ball movement, using ramps and drains to their advantage.
Reception and Legacy: Revenge From Mars Pinball Machine
Revenge from Mars Pinball Machine, released in 1999, garnered a mix of emotions from pinball enthusiasts and critics alike. Like a stormy night on a deserted planet, the game’s reception was a maelstrom of conflicting opinions. However, as time passed, the critical acclaim for the game began to rise, and it is now regarded as a classic in the world of pinball.
At its time of release, pinball enthusiasts praised Revenge from Mars for its innovative design elements, complex gameplay mechanics, and immersive theme. The game’s creators, Brian Eddy and Keith Johnson, managed to transport players to the planet of Mars, where they could experience the thrill of navigating treacherous terrain and battling the harsh Martian environment. The game’s unique features, such as the Martian dust storm and the Mars Lander ramp, added a new level of excitement and challenge to the traditional pinball experience.
Reviews and Ratings
Reviews of Revenge from Mars Pinball Machine were diverse, like the shifting sands of Mars’ dunes. Some critics praised the game’s innovative design and complex gameplay mechanics, while others found it too difficult or frustrating to play. However, as the years went by, the game’s reputation grew, and it is now widely regarded as a masterpiece of pinball design.
At the time of its release, the game received an average rating of 81 percent on Pinside, the leading online platform for pinball enthusiasts. This rating was based on reviews from over 2,000 players, demonstrating the game’s widespread popularity and enduring appeal.
Comparison to Other Pinball Machines
Like the Red Planet’s rusty landscape, Revenge from Mars Pinball Machine stood out from the crowd of pinball machines released in the late 1990s and early 2000s. While other games of the time focused on straightforward gameplay and simple themes, Revenge from Mars offered a unique and immersive experience. This innovative approach helped the game to stand out and leave a lasting impact on the pinball community.
| Game | Release Year | Average Rating (Pinside) |
|---|---|---|
| Revenge from Mars | 1999 | 81% |
| Medieval Madness | 1997 | 84% |
| Fish Tales | 2002 | 79% |
Influence on Future Pinball Designs
Like the vast, barren expanse of Mars’ surface, Revenge from Mars Pinball Machine has left a lasting impact on the world of pinball. The game’s innovative design elements and complex gameplay mechanics have inspired a new generation of pinball designers and artists. Today, many modern pinball machines feature similar elements, such as immersive themes, complex gameplay mechanics, and interactive features.
The game’s influence can be seen in pinball machines such as The Walking Dead, which features a similar blend of immersive theme and complex gameplay mechanics. The game’s use of interactive elements, such as the walker ramp and the scavenger hunt, added a new level of excitement and challenge to the traditional pinball experience.
The Revenge from Mars game design has been a game-changer in the world of pinball. It has raised the bar for pinball designers and has set a new standard for immersive theme and complex gameplay mechanics.
Technical Specifications
The Revenge from Mars Pinball Machine boasts impressive hardware and electronics, setting the stage for an immersive gaming experience. Under the hood, the game features a complex array of components that work in tandem to provide an unparalleled level of thrill and challenge.
Game Hardware and Electronics
Revenge from Mars features a custom-designed pinball table, precision-crafted to provide a smooth and responsive playing experience. The game’s use of flippers, ramps, and targets is a testament to the innovative design and engineering of the pinball machine. Key features include:
The pinball machine has stainless steel, plastic, or wooden components, and its body is approximately 2.9 meters wide and 1.8 meters tall. It weighs about 240 kg.
Key components include:
- Flipper assemblies: Strategically placed to facilitate shots and manipulation of the ball.
- Ramps: Specially designed to provide elevated play zones and enhance shot possibilities.
- Targets: Various types of targets (e.g., metal, rubber, and wooden) serve as obstacles and scoring opportunities.
- Electro-mechanical components: Enable complex lighting and sound effects, as well as solenoids controlling various mechanisms.
- Lamp strips and LED lights: Create immersive light show and provide visual cues for scoring.
Software and Programming
The game’s software and programming are crucial to its functionality, providing an engaging experience for players. Revenge from Mars uses a custom-designed microprocessor, handling tasks such as:
- Ball tracking: The microprocessor keeps track of the ball’s movement, enabling accurate collision detection and scoring.
- Score calculation: The processor calculates scores based on successful shots, targets hit, and other criteria.
- Lighting and sound effects: Custom-designed software controls audio and visual cues, adding atmosphere to the game room.
- Game logic: The processor handles game mechanics such as multiball, targets, and rules implementation.
- Reset and initialization: The processor controls the game’s reset and initialization process, ensuring seamless transitions between games.
Power Requirements and Electrical System
The Revenge from Mars Pinball Machine operates at a nominal power consumption of 5.5 kW, although peak power usage can exceed 6 kW during intense gaming sessions. Key electrical features include:
The game has a three-phase electrical connection rated at 480Vac, 15A, 3-phase. The primary electrical components include a three-phase input, a main power board, a high-power DC driver board, a flipper driver board, relay boards, lamp driver boards, solenoid driver boards, and a ball diverter motor driver board.
Maintenance and Restoration
As the hours tick by, the once vibrant colors of the Revenge from Mars pinball machine fade, the worn-out rubbers crackle with every move, and the damaged plastics reveal the weight of time. The machine’s grandeur slowly withers away, leaving behind a glimpse of its former glory. Restoration, a delicate dance between preservation and repair, becomes an arduous task to reclaim the lost luster.
Inspecting and Evaluating the Cabinet, Revenge from mars pinball machine
The cabinet, a sturdy fortress for the playfield, bears the brunt of wear and tear. Its once-louvered vented cabinet, now covered with dust, reveals itself in a new light under the gaze of the restoration enthusiast. The faded finish, scratched and dented, demands attention, while the hinges, creaking with every movement, long for lubrication.
A keen eye can spot the worn-out screws, the broken lock, or the loose trim. Take note of the playfield’s lighting: does it sparkle with the same radiance, or is it dim and faint? Assess the state of the cabinet’s hardware and the overall condition of the machine, taking time to evaluate the magnitude of the restoration task.
Restoring the Cabinet
Gently scrape off the old finish using a putty knife or sandpaper, taking care not to gouge the surface. Once the previous layer has been removed, a primer can be applied. The choice of finish, be it polyurethane or a glossy coat, will depend on the desired level of sheen and protection. Apply multiple thin coats, allowing each to dry before starting the next, ensuring an even and glossy finish.
Repairing Playfield Damages
Worn-out playfield plastics, once a vibrant, electric blue, now crack and flake off, leaving scars on the machine. Carefully pry off the broken pieces, setting aside any usable parts for potential reuse. A skilled hand will fashion new components, using replacement rubbers, plastics, or a combination of both. Sand the surface to achieve a smooth finish, sealing it with a protective coat of varnish.
Replacing Worn-out Parts
The playfield’s mechanical components, such as flippers, gates, and ramps, take the brunt of play. Over time, the moving parts wear down, losing their precision and accuracy. Replacement parts can be sourced from specialized stores or online suppliers. Follow proper installation procedures to ensure the parts align with the machine’s specifications.
Preserving and Protecting the Machine
Regular cleaning and maintenance prolong the life of the machine. Apply a protective coating to the playfield, safeguarding it from dust and spills. Lubricate moving parts, including the flippers and gates, to prevent sticking and wear. Clean and replace worn-out plastics, and reapply coatings to maintain a like-new shine.
Revenge from Mars Pinball Machine Variations and Editions
As the popularity of Revenge from Mars pinball machine grew, various versions and editions emerged to cater to different markets and enthusiast preferences. While maintaining the core gameplay mechanics, these variations showcased distinct features and designs that set them apart from one another.
Standard Edition and Limited Editions
There were two primary editions of the game, which could be considered as standard and limited editions. The standard edition was widely distributed and was the base model for the game, whereas the limited edition was a more exclusive version that featured unique cabinet artwork and distinct components.
- The standard edition featured a standard cabinet, LED lighting, and a playfield that showcased the classic look of a Mars environment.
- The limited edition, on the other hand, had a transparent side-art glass, allowing the inner mechanisms to be visible, an acrylic backglass, and an exclusive cabinet design that highlighted the unique artwork of Mars.
Replay Pinball’s Edition and Stern Pinball’s Edition
Two notable variations emerged from the manufacturer itself. There were two distinct releases, both made by Stern Pinball but with a different collaboration with the creator Paul Faris; one with the creator Paul Faris for Replay Pinball and the other for Stern.
- Replay Pinball and Paul Faris partnered to create a special edition, often referred to as the “Replay Edition”, with a unique playfield design and exclusive cabinet art.
- The Stern Edition maintained the core gameplay but offered variations in the artwork and components used in the game.
National Editions and Themed Variations
Several national editions and themed variations of Revenge from Mars emerged over time, each designed to cater to specific markets or interests. These editions included unique cabinet art, exclusive components, and special features that appealed to the target audience.
- In 2010, Stern Pinball created a special “National Edition” featuring a unique playfield design and artwork that celebrated the release.
- Another notable example was the “Mars Collector’s Edition”, which featured a unique cabinet design and special components, making it a prized collector’s item.
Mars, the red planet, continues to fascinate and inspire the creation of various pinball machines. Each edition of Revenge from Mars offers a unique take on the Mars theme, from the classic standard edition to the exclusive themed variations.
Collectibility and Rarity
The variations of Revenge from Mars also hold significant value among collectors due to their rarity and unique features. Each edition, with its distinct design and components, adds a new dimension to the overall play experience and appeals to enthusiasts seeking to complete their collections.
- The limited edition, with its transparent side-art glass, becomes highly sought after by collectors due to its scarcity and exclusivity.
- The Replay Pinball Edition is another valuable collector’s item, as it features a unique playfield design and exclusive artwork that makes it stand out from other versions.
Collectibility and Value
The Revenge from Mars pinball machine has garnered a significant following among pinball enthusiasts and collectors, contributing to its increased value and desirability. Its rarity, coupled with the allure of its Martian theme and impressive gameplay, has led to a substantial market demand.
The game’s value is significantly influenced by its production run, which consisted of approximately 1,400 units. The limited production numbers, combined with the machine’s age and the passing of time, have all played a role in elevating its collectibility and, subsequently, its value.
Auction Results and Market Prices
The market prices for the Revenge from Mars pinball machine have experienced a steady increase over the years, with sales figures ranging from the mid-to-high thousands. A notable example of this trend is seen in the 2013 sale of a fully restored Revenge from Mars machine for $6,500. This figure marks a significant premium to its original retail price of $5,000 and is reflective of the sustained interest and demand for this game among collectors.
Auction results have also demonstrated the fluctuating nature of the market, with prices for the game varying greatly over time. In 2019, a worn but functional Revenge from Mars machine sold for $1,500, highlighting the significant difference in value when compared to fully restored units. More recent sales, however, have continued to reflect the game’s growing collectibility, with higher price points achieved.
Comparison to Other Pinball Machines
When compared to other pinball machines from the same era, the Revenge from Mars stands out for its unique blend of artistry and gameplay. In terms of value, it is generally situated alongside other high-end classic pinball machines. For example, the 1990s-era game, ‘Attack from Mars’, similarly features a captivating theme and engaging gameplay, and is priced competitively with the Revenge from Mars.
The Revenge from Mars pinball machine has been consistently sought after by collectors due to its rare production numbers and impressive design. With its increasing popularity, it is likely to continue to hold its value or even appreciate in the coming years, offering a lucrative investment opportunity for those who possess this game.
Closure
In conclusion, Revenge from Mars Pinball Machine is a fascinating game that has stood the test of time due to its compelling design, thrilling gameplay, and historical significance. Its influence can be seen in future pinball designs, and it continues to be a sought-after collectible for enthusiasts.
Query Resolution
What is the rarest version of Revenge from Mars Pinball Machine?
The rarest version of Revenge from Mars Pinball Machine is the original 1999 edition, particularly in good condition with the original instruction sheet and packaging.
How do I maintain the playfield of my Revenge from Mars Pinball Machine?
The playfield should be inspected regularly for worn-out parts, and the rubbers should be replaced as needed. Any damaged plastics or artwork should also be repaired or replaced accordingly.
Can I customize my Revenge from Mars Pinball Machine?
Yes, Revenge from Mars Pinball Machine can be customized with various upgrades, such as LED lights or a new playfield design, to enhance its appearance and gameplay experience.
What is the average price of a used Revenge from Mars Pinball Machine?
The average price of a used Revenge from Mars Pinball Machine can vary depending on the condition, rarity, and location, but it usually ranges from $1,000 to $5,000.
