The Big Lebowski™ Pinball (First Model)

The Big Lebowski Pinball (First Model) is a significant addition to the world of pinball, marking Dutch Pinball's licensed release built around the laid-back essence of the 1998 cult classic film. Its first shipment occurred in April 2016, with 95 confirmed units produced. It was designed by Koen Heltzel and Barry Driessen, with art by Jean-Paul de Win and Freek van Haagen.

The gameplay on The Big Lebowski Pinball is where things get really interesting. With three flippers, two pop bumpers, and two slingshots, players have a range of options to navigate the playfield. But what truly sets this game apart are its unique features -- like the captive ball in the recessed mini-playfield that hits resettable bowling pins, or the actual floor rug included with each factory purchase (because who wouldn't want to play on a rug?). The elevated mini-playfield is filled with a garage building, targets, and a looping lane, inviting players to experience the thrill of bowling like never before. And if you thought it couldn't get any more immersive, shooting the scoop on this mini-playfield can start the car mode, complete with a bash toy car that will leave you grinning.

One notable aspect of The Big Lebowski Pinball's design is its use of a translite rather than traditional glass for the backglass. And let's not forget about the speech -- yes, this game has voiceovers! Players can even spell out "B-O-W-L-I-N-G" on the elevated mini-playfield, which will light up the iconic phrase "Let's go bowling" in the scoop and at the kick-out hole. The machine also features a unique scoring system for the lit feature, where feeding the captive ball to the oscillating ball launcher rewards players with the chance to hit ten pins, with a randomized algorithm determining which pins are struck. It's a game that perfectly blends art, theme, and gameplay, making it a must-play for any pinball enthusiast.