Antares

The Antares pinball machine, manufactured by Nordamatic of Verona, Italy in 1979, is a notable example of the company's output. It stands out as the only solid-state (SS) pin game Nordamatic ever produced, marking a one-off departure from the electro-mechanical machines that made up the rest of their catalog.

One of the standout features of the Antares is its unique triple-flipper configuration, which adds an extra layer of challenge and excitement to gameplay. Players must navigate the ball through multiple lanes, avoiding obstacles and trying to maximize their scores by hitting stand-up targets and drop targets. The machine's dual in-lanes and lack of slingshots also contribute to its distinctive playstyle. A spinning target and star rollover add additional challenges and opportunities for high-scoring shots.

The Antares' design and artwork are reflective of the space age themes (Outer Space - Science Fiction - Space Fantasy - Space Travel) popular at the time, with artist Michele "Mike" Martinelli behind its look. While little is known about the machine's specific design or creation process, its unique blend of electronic innovation and classic pinball gameplay, plus its status as Nordamatic's sole SS effort, make it an intriguing addition to any collection.