Machine Description

Barracora, released by Williams Electronics in 1981, represents a significant entry in the early solid-state era of pinball machines. The game featured a striking underwater theme centered around a fearsome barracuda, capitalizing on the popular ocean predator motifs of the early 1980s in the wake of films like 'Jaws' and its sequels.

The machine's design incorporated innovative features for its time, including multi-ball play and a unique 'fish feeding frenzy' scoring mechanism. The playfield layout was created by Steve Ritchie, who was becoming one of Williams' most celebrated designers. The artwork by Doug Watson featured dynamic underwater scenes with an aggressive barracuda as the centerpiece, employing a bold color palette that made the machine stand out in arcades.

Barracora was notable for its advanced sound system, utilizing Williams' then-new solid-state technology to produce more complex sound effects than earlier games. The game's ruleset was sophisticated enough to challenge experienced players while remaining accessible to newcomers, a balance that helped maintain its popularity in arcades throughout the early 1980s.

While not among Williams' highest-production games, Barracora has maintained a dedicated following among collectors and enthusiasts, particularly appreciated for its blend of challenging gameplay and unique theme. The machine is considered a solid representative of the early solid-state era, demonstrating the transition from simpler games to more complex rule sets that would define later pinball machines.