Space Time

Space Time, designed by Jim Patla and manufactured by Bally in September 1972, is a four-player electro-mechanical (EM) pinball machine with an outer space, science fiction, and time travel theme. As an EM machine, it relies on mechanical relays and electrical impulses to control gameplay, in the style typical of the era.

The gameplay experience in Space Time is built around a varied layout: four pop bumpers, two slingshots, and five stand-up targets, along with a left kicker lane and distinctive upper and lower gates. A notable toy element consists of flashing lights on a 3D 'tunnel' in the lower playfield tied to target and rollover scoring. The maximum displayed score is 99,990 points per player, with a replay wheel maximum of 25.

Space Time's artwork, by Christian Marche, reflects the science fiction aesthetic popular in early-1970s pinball. A two-player version of the game was released the following year as 'Time Zone.' With 5,000 confirmed units produced, Space Time remains a sought-after piece for collectors interested in Bally's early-1970s EM catalog, including rarer cabinet variants such as the wood-grain-laminated "cafe games" built for the Swedish market.