Landing on Venus

Landing on Venus, manufactured by Rally Play Company of Nice, France, in 1965, is a rare and significant addition to any pinball collection. As one of the few electro-mechanical (EM) machines from this era, it showcases the innovative spirit of early pinball designers. EM games were a precursor to the solid-state machines that followed, featuring mechanical relays and solenoids instead of microprocessors. Landing on Venus is an important piece in the evolution of the game, offering a glimpse into the pioneering work of manufacturers like Rally.

Gameplay features two flippers, three pop bumpers, two slingshots, and standup targets, providing a challenging and engaging experience for players. The maximum displayed score is 1,999 points, which was likely a high-scoring feat in its time. What sets Landing on Venus apart from other EM machines is its focus on Outer Space - Fantasy theme, which was a bold departure from traditional pinball subjects like bowling or baseball. The artwork and design elements likely added to the machine's mystique, transporting players to a fantastical world beyond Earth's atmosphere.

Unfortunately, specific details about the machine's designer are not available, leaving some mystery surrounding its creation. Rally Play Company's production run between 1961 and 1969 was relatively short-lived, making this game even more elusive for collectors. Despite the lack of information on its design team, Landing on Venus remains an intriguing piece in pinball history, offering a unique blend of mechanical complexity and space-age fantasy to enthusiasts.