Zarza

The Zarza, manufactured by Fipermatic Indústria Comércio Importaçăo e Exportaçăo Ltda of Manaus, Brazil, is a rare and intriguing addition to the world of pinball. Unfortunately, its release date remains unknown, but its Solid State Electronic (SS) design suggests it was produced sometime in the mid-to-late 20th century. As one of the few Brazilian-made pinballs, the Zarza offers a glimpse into the country's lesser-known contributions to the hobby.

The gameplay on the Zarza is characterized by four pop bumpers, two slingshots, and two kick-out holes, which create an engaging challenge for players. The machine also features a unique 4-bank drop target and stand-up targets, as well as a spinning target that adds variety to the play experience. Perhaps most notably, the Zarza includes a right ramp that sends the ball through an elevated tube to the left-side lane, creating a thrilling diversion from standard pinball gameplay.

The design and art of the Zarza are somewhat mysterious, given the lack of documentation on its development. However, it's clear that Fipermatic aimed for a fantasy-themed machine, though specifics about the artwork or color scheme remain unknown. Some enthusiasts may be drawn to the Zarza due to its rarity and Brazilian provenance, making it an attractive addition to any serious pinball collection.