Hayburners II

Hayburners II is a two-player electro-mechanical pinball machine from 1968, designed by Steve Kordek for Williams Electronics, with a confirmed production run of 2,303 units. As one of only four Williams games to feature "closing flipper action," also known as zipper flippers, this machine boasts a unique gameplay mechanism that sets it apart from its contemporaries. On Hayburners II the flippers do not zip together to close the flipper gap; instead, they separate widely to give the oscillating center ball-shooter (turret shooter) a wider range for aiming, then zip to reduce the gap once the ball is in play. The game has four flippers in total, with the lower two being the zipper flippers.

This horse racing-themed machine also carries a notable place in pinball history: it is credited with introducing 3-inch flippers in place of the 2-inch flippers that had been used since flippers debuted in 1947. The mechanical backbox animation of horses racing adds an extra layer of excitement, immersing players in the thrill of the track. The replay wheel records a maximum of 37 replays.

With its distinctive zipper flippers, turret shooter, and racing animation, Hayburners II is an engaging piece of gaming history that is sure to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike.