Chance
About This Machine
The Chance pinball machine, produced by Playmatic in 1974, is a fascinating example of early electromechanical (EM) design, built around a Magic/Witchcraft theme and notable for its mechanical backbox animation - an arrow that moves clockwise on the backglass.
Gameplay on Chance is characterized by its unique blend of traditional mechanical elements and innovative design features. Two flippers, three pop bumpers, two slingshots, and nine standup targets work together to create an engaging experience. The bonus feature sets Chance apart from other EM machines: landing the ball in one of two kick-out holes scores the value indicated by the backglass arrow, and the bonus carries over from game to game, scorable only via the kick-out hole and the correctly positioned arrow.
The Witchcraft theme is executed through the rotating clockwise arrow animation, and the machine can display a maximum score of 9,999 points, with a replay wheel maxing out at 15. The playfield glass doesn't slide out but instead raises into a vertical service position within a metal frame, latched by a spring catch on top of the wedge-head backbox. For pinball enthusiasts and historians, the Chance offers a captivating look into the early days of electromechanical design and its unique approach to gameplay mechanics.
Images (22)
Technical Details
- Theme:
- Magic - Witchcraft
- Notable Features:
- Flippers (2), Pop bumpers (3), Slingshots (2), Standup targets (9), Kick-out holes (2), Rollover button (1), Right-side drop lane with ball return gate, Up-post between flippers. Mechanical backbox animation (arrow moves clockwise). Ball landing in kick-out hole scores the value indicated by the backglass arrow. The bonus is a carry-over feature from game to game and can only be scored via the kick-out hole and the arrow in the right spot. The 1-point relay alternates between lighting the red pop bumper for 100 points when lit and opening/closing the ball return gate. The playfield glass does not slide out but raises up in a metal frame. A spring latch on top of backbox holds the playfield glass in a vertical service position by latching into the right-side cigarette holder on the metal frame. Wedge head. Maximum displayed point score is 9,999 points. Replay wheel maximum: 15 Sound: 2 bells, knocker