Ski Club
About This Machine
The Ski Club pinball machine, designed by Steve Kordek and manufactured by Williams in 1965, is a significant addition to the world of electromechanical (EM) pinballs. As one of the pioneering machines from this era, it showcases the evolution of gameplay mechanics and artistry that would eventually shape the modern pinball experience.
One of the key features that set Ski Club apart is its unique scoring system, where advancing the climber up the mountain triggers a series of events, including a flashing summit lamp, two add-a-balls, and bonus points. The machine's design also incorporates an innovative drop-down cabinet, illuminated backglass marquee, and backglass light animation - all rare and impressive features for a 1960s EM pinball. Additionally, the inclusion of four flippers, four pop bumpers, passive bumpers, slingshots, kick-out holes, and a standup target add to the machine's complexity and excitement.
Notably, Ski Club's climber animation is a carryover feature: the mountain climber's progress persists from game to game rather than resetting, and reaching the summit briefly lights a flag, awards two add-a-balls, and resets the climb. The rollover button system lights buttons one-at-a-time starting at the bottom; hitting the lit top button opens a gate, awards 300 points, and increases the kick-out hole value. The maximum score of 9,999 points is displayed on the machine's face, adding to its nostalgic charm.
Designed by Steve Kordek with art by Art Stenholm, Ski Club remains highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike for its rarity, mechanics, and sheer uniqueness in the world of electromechanical pinballs.
Images (22)
Technical Details
- Theme:
- Sports - Skiing
- Model Number:
- 311
- Notable Features:
- Flippers (4), Pop bumpers (4), Passive bumpers (3), Slingshots (2), Kick-out holes (2), Standup target (1), Right outlane ball return gate. Illuminated backglass marquee. Backglass light animation (mountain climber ascends mountain). Drop-down cabinet. Scoring A-B-C-D-E in sequence advances the climber up the mountain. When climber is almost at the summit, the climber lamp flashes. Climber reaching summit briefly lights a flag there, two add-a-balls are awarded, and the animation resets to light the climber back to the beginning of the climb. This is a carryover feature from game to game. Rollover buttons light one-at-a-time starting at the bottom button. Hitting a lit button lights the one above it. Hitting the top rollover button when lit lights target. Hitting lit target opens gate, awards 300 points, and increases kick-out hole value. Maximum displayed point score is 9,999 points. Sound: knocker Tilt penalty: Game Over
Credits
- Designer:
- Steve Kordek
- Artist:
- Art Stenholm