The Red Max

The Red Max is a scarce electro-mechanical pinball machine from Bally Manufacturing Corporation, designed by Ted Zale, with an aviation theme. Only 70 units are confirmed produced, and its exact release date is not documented.

The gameplay features that set The Red Max apart from other EM machines include its dual flippers, four pop bumpers, six mushroom bumpers, and a single kick-out hole. The captive ball feature adds an extra layer of challenge and strategy for players. What truly sets this machine apart, however, is the backglass light animation: as each word of "The Red Max" lights up on the playfield, the corresponding word illuminates on the backglass.

Surviving examples show some variation - one unit (serial number 1021) has its credit window painted over, with the credit wheel removed from the replay unit in the backbox (though it still awards replays), while another (serial number 1025) shows the credit window and wheel intact. Given its low confirmed production of 70 units, The Red Max is a highly sought-after find for pinball enthusiasts and collectors.