Joker's Wild

The Joker, manufactured by Segasa d.b.a. Sonic of Spain in 1977, is a rare and fascinating example of early electro-mechanical (EM) pinball design. As one of the few known machines from this manufacturer, it holds significant importance in pinball history. The Joker's American West theme, complete with cards and gambling elements, was a departure from the typical space-themed EMs of the time.

Gameplay on the Joker is characterized by its 2-flipper setup, 4 stand-up targets, and 3 spinning targets. Players must navigate their ball through the dual in-lanes and attempt to hit specific targets to trigger various features, including pop bumpers and kick-out holes. The machine's unique 3-reel drum unit graphics display playing cards, which light up other features when a three-of-a-kind is achieved, adding an extra layer of strategy to gameplay.

One notable aspect of the Joker's design is its use of a horseshoe lane in the upper playfield, creating a sense of depth and visual interest. The machine's art and theme are also noteworthy, with bold, colorful graphics that evoke the spirit of the American West. Unfortunately, little is known about this machine beyond its technical specifications and gameplay features, but for pinball enthusiasts, it remains an intriguing and lesser-known gem in the world of EM pinball design.