Wild Sch³tz

Wild Schütz, produced by Geiger-Automatenbau GmbH of Germany in March 1980, is a solid state electronic (SS) pinball machine that occupies a niche in the world of sports-themed pinballs. It was released as a conversion kit — consisting of a new backglass and playfield — for Bally's 1978 'Strikes and Spares', with only 200 units confirmed to have been produced. Its existence is a testament to the growing popularity of pinball conversion kits in Europe during the late 1970s and early 1980s.

Gameplay on Wild Schütz is characterized by its unique blend of hunting and sports elements, set amidst a backdrop that combines traditional Germanic motifs with a dash of wilderness adventure. The machine features two flippers, three pop bumpers, one kick-out hole, and a spinning target, all of which contribute to an engaging gameplay experience. The artwork, by artist Michele "Mike" Martinelli, was reportedly his personal favorite among his body of work, and according to Geiger, the theme was drawn from a novel by Ludwig Ganghofer, possibly tied to the 1959 film "Hubertusjagd."

Little else is documented about Wild Schütz beyond its production figures and artistic pedigree, but it remains an intriguing piece of pinball history — a reflection of the era's fascination with sports-themed games and German culture, and of the once-common practice of repurposing existing cabinets into new titles.