Teeter Torture (prototype)

A unique and exceedingly rare prototype from Exidy, Teeter Torture presents players with an unusual shooting challenge released in 1982. The gameplay centers around a cannon controlled by a dial that moves horizontally across a teeter-totter platform. Weighted objects descend toward the player, and failure to shoot them results in these weights attaching to the teeter-totter’s arm, causing it to tilt. The player's own cannon also contributes to this tilting mechanic, adding an element of dynamic balance. A TNT plunger is positioned on each side of the game board; if either arm drops completely, a destructive explosion occurs, ending the gameplay session. The single-player experience relies solely on shooting and carefully managing the teeter’s equilibrium. Due to its prototype status, only one cabinet of Teeter Torture has been discovered, leading to speculation about its origins for many years. Programmed by Larry Hutcherson, this game offers a singular glimpse into early arcade development.