Zig Zag

The 1964 Williams electro-mechanical pinball machine "Zig Zag" (model 304), designed by Steve Kordek with art by George Molentin, is a well-regarded specimen in the world of pinball collecting. Released December 14, 1964, its design and playfield mechanics are quintessential of the EM era, with features like two flippers, three pop bumpers, two slingshots, five rollover buttons, three kick-out holes, and left and right dual outlanes.

What sets Zig Zag apart is its unique gameplay experience. Players can choose to play with either 3 or 5 balls, adding an extra layer of strategy to the game. The machine's mechanical backbox animation is a fascinating feature, where additional balls are added to the display when targets are hit, creating a mesmerizing display of movement and action. The reverse wedge head design is another distinctive visual touch.

The "Zig Zag" theme, built around water sports, happiness, and recreation, is a light-hearted departure from more common pinball subjects of the time. With 1,674 confirmed units produced (1,222 for USA/Canada and 454 for export) at a distributor price of $330, it was a solid commercial release for Williams. An Add-A-Ball version of the same game was released as "Wing Ding" that same year.