Video killed the pinball machine. Now open source programmers are bringing the arcade games back to life. Armed with emulator apps that mimic real-world physics, flipper-philes are resurrecting classic tables like Gorgar and Eight Ball Deluxe. More than 1,000 machines have been virtually re-created from schematics and blueprints, ROM dumps, and careful measuring of the distance from flipper to bumper. Tables are honed and tweaked by dozens of pinball aficionados until the feel is realistic. "It’s the preservation of silver-ball history," says A. J. Russo, who offers free games at VPForums.com. "We want the younger generation to be able to take a step back and play what their parents played." Hey, kids: Hit "5" on the keyboard to insert credits, no quarters required.
- Will Tuttle
credit Courtesy AJ
The Addams Family, emulator by PacDude and Boris
Authenticity: 9 out of 10 Ballyés 1992 table introduced the automated flipper and optical sensors. In the virtual version 7.0, everything from ramps and bumpers to Thingés disembodied hand (watch out, itéll grab your ball) feels real.
credit Courtesy AJ
Black Knight, by Kristian, NeuroK, PE668
Authenticity: 8 out of 10 Williamsé 1980 original introduced the split-level playfield. Version 1.2 nails the hidden magnetic ball trap and the Black Knightés verbal assaults.
credit Courtesy AJ
Freedom, by Cold1, Destruk, TAB
Authenticity: 7 out of 10 Ballyés bicentennial curio was among the first to combine chips, transistors, and CPUs. Version 2.0 ports over the patriotic design particularly well.
credit Courtesy AJ
Humpty Dumpty, by Duglis
Authenticity: 6 out of 10 Gottliebés 1947 pinball machine pioneered flippers. The sim is still in version 1.0-and it shows. Future revs should fill the cracks in Humptyés shell.
PLAY
>
Simball
