Sky Divers

The 1964 Sky Divers by Bally Manufacturing Corporation is a significant entry in the world of electro-mechanical (EM) pinball machines. As one of the pioneering manufacturers of pinball games, Bally's contribution to the sport was unmatched during this era. Designed by Ted Zale, Sky Divers showcases the evolution of pinball gameplay and design, offering features that would become standard in future models.

The machine's unique combination of flippers, pop bumpers, mushroom bumpers, slingshots, rollover buttons, and an upper free ball gate creates a thrilling experience for players. The distinctive placement of rollover buttons causes nearby slingshots to kick the ball, adding an extra layer of complexity to gameplay. Additionally, hitting all three mushroom bumpers opens the upper left bonus gate, allowing the ball to pass to the top of the playfield. This innovative design encourages strategic thinking and precise aiming.

The backglass animation of parachutists descending adds a touch of visual excitement to the game, a feature often referred to as carry-over art. The machine's sports theme – specifically sky diving – was a bold choice for its time, reflecting the adventurous spirit of the era. With a maximum displayed point score of 1,999 points and the option for 3 or 5 ball play, Sky Divers presents an engaging challenge for pinball enthusiasts.