Clowns (rev. 2)

Bounce your way to high scores in Clowns, a two-player ball and paddle game released by Midway in 1978. This title is inspired by Exidy’s earlier “Circus” arcade game, offering a unique twist on the classic formula. Players control paddles that launch a bouncing clown up a "see-saw" structure to break rows of balloons arranged at the top of the screen. Strategic angles and timing are key as you aim to clear the balloon formations for increasingly valuable bonus points. The gameplay involves skillfully maneuvering your paddle to redirect the clown, aiming for those higher rows for maximum rewards. Clearing entire rows awards substantial bonuses, encouraging focused play. A simple color palette highlights the action on the 256x224 pixel screen and discrete sound circuitry provides accompanying audio cues. Clowns was also released in a cocktail table format and found popularity in the UK under the name "Springboard." With its straightforward mechanics and competitive two-player mode, Clowns delivers accessible and engaging arcade fun.