Space Shuttle

The Space Shuttle, conceived by Joe Kaminkow and designed by Barry Oursler and Joe Kaminkow for Williams Electronics, was released in December 1984 on the Williams System 9 platform. It is historically significant as the first solid-state production pinball machine to feature a playfield toy, in this case a plastic shuttle replica.

One of the key features that set Space Shuttle apart is its use of ramps and multiball capabilities, letting players send two or three balls through the space-themed playfield while navigating a 3-bank drop target, a timed drop target, seven stand-up targets, and a spinning target. The machine also includes a right outlane detour gate and an up-post between the flippers for added variety in play.

The game's speech was handled by Larry DeMar (with Steve Ritchie providing the voice), and its sound was created by Eugene Jarvis and Bill Parod. Artist Mark Sprenger worked a personal touch into the design: the three shuttle transporters on the playfield carry insignia representing his son's initials and birthdate. The machine also uses a ringing bell instead of a traditional knocker, adding a distinctive touch. With 7,000 confirmed units produced, Space Shuttle remains a well-regarded title among Williams' mid-1980s output.