High Speed

The High Speed pinball machine, designed by Steve Ritchie and manufactured by Williams Electronics Games in 1986, is a groundbreaking achievement in the history of pinball. Running on the Williams System 11 platform with a confirmed production of 17,080 units, it set a new standard for the industry with a string of firsts, and its innovative gameplay mechanics and unique design elements make it an essential addition to any serious pinball collection.

High Speed boasts a range of exciting features that pushed the boundaries of what was possible in pinball at the time. The game's multiball mode is particularly noteworthy, as it introduced the concept of jackpots available only during multiball play. This added an extra layer of strategy and challenge to the game, requiring players to adapt their tactics to maximize their rewards. It was also the first pinball machine to play a complete song, the first Williams pin game to use alpha-numeric displays, and the first solid-state game with an operator report, features that would become staples in future pinball designs.

The game's theme, centered around high-speed police chases, is expertly captured through its vibrant artwork and soundscape, complete with a traffic light on the ramp and a rotating police beacon atop the backbox. The attention to detail in the design is impressive, with spinning targets, 3-bank standup targets, and slingshots creating an immersive experience for players. As a testament to its significance, High Speed holds multiple records as a first-to-feature certain technologies or gameplay mechanics, solidifying its place as a landmark machine in pinball history.