Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines

Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines, designed by Steve Ritchie and released by Stern Pinball in June 2003, is a standout title in the company's history. The game's release coincided with the theatrical run of the third Terminator film, and it features custom speech recorded by Arnold Schwarzenegger.

The gameplay is where this machine truly shines, boasting an array of innovative features. A key highlight is the backbox reciprocating cannon, which propels a Delrin ball horizontally toward five targets, adding a dynamic element to gameplay. The game also features three all-steel ramps and a captive ball mechanism, creating a thrilling experience for players. Additionally, the T-X ball cannon shoots the ball at the right flipper, introducing an extra level of challenge and strategy. The entire playfield lights up red in a mode called "RED," adding an immersive element to gameplay, and the game supports four pinballs in play.

The Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines cabinet is imposing, advertised at 55 inches long, 27 inches wide, and 75 1/2 inches high, weighing 260 pounds. Design was led by Steve Ritchie with art by Kevin O'Connor, dot animation by Mark Galvez and Kurt Andersen, and software by Dwight Sullivan and Lonnie D. Ropp. With its unique blend of innovative features, immersive gameplay, and faithful representation of the film's universe, this machine has become a sought-after title among pinball enthusiasts and collectors alike.