Viper
About This Machine
The Stern Viper, released in October 1981, is a distinctive widebody solid-state pinball machine designed by Joe Joos Jr., who by this point had already designed several other Stern and Game Plan titles. The Viper boasts three flippers, two pop bumpers, and two slingshots, setting it apart as a formidable opponent for players.
The game's true showstopper is its 3-ball multiball feature, where balls are stored in the lane on the upper right-hand side of the playfield. Players can then use the red flipper buttons to aim and launch the ball into a rotating turret at the center of the playfield, allowing for control over trajectory and direction. The turret itself features 7 stand-up targets that can be hit while it's in motion, adding an extra layer of challenge and excitement.
With only 438 units confirmed produced, the Stern Viper is a genuinely rare machine, highly sought after by collectors and players alike for its unique turret-aiming mechanic and widebody cabinet.
Images (20)
Technical Details
- Model Number:
- 148
- MPU:
- Stern M-200 MPU
- Notable Features:
- Flippers (3), Pop bumpers (2), Slingshots (2), 3-bank drop targets (2), Spinning target (1). This is a 3-ball multi-ball game, with the balls being stored in the lane located on the upper right-hand side of the playfield. There is a round turret located in the center of the playfield. Normally stationary, the turret begins to revolve when a ball enters it. The red flipper buttons are used to aim and launch the ball out of the turret in any direction and back onto the playfield. The turret also has 7 stand-up targets that can be hit while in motion.
Credits
- Designer:
- Joe Joos Jr.
- Artist:
- Keith Parkinson
- Mechanics:
- Joe Joos Jr.