Centaur

Bally's 'Centaur' stands as one of the most iconic and innovative solid-state pinball machines of the early 1980s. Released in 1981, this groundbreaking game featured a dark, brooding theme that broke away from the typically lighthearted pinball aesthetics of its era. The machine's artwork, designed by Paul Faris, depicted a menacing mechanical centaur figure that captured players' imaginations and set a new standard for pinball art design.

Technically innovative for its time, Centaur introduced several revolutionary features, including the first 'evil' voice synthesis in a pinball machine, commanding players with phrases like 'Centaur...Challenge the Future!' and 'Destroy the Beast!' The game's layout was masterfully crafted by Jim Patla, featuring a unique upper playfield with a bank of drop targets, multiple ramps, and specialized scoring zones that rewarded skilled shot-making.

The machine proved to be both a commercial and critical success, with approximately 3,700 units produced during its run. Its popularity led to a sequel, 'Centaur II,' in 1983, though the original is generally considered the superior game. Centaur has maintained its reputation among collectors and enthusiasts, consistently ranking among the most sought-after solid-state machines of its era. Its combination of innovative sound, challenging gameplay, and distinctive theme helped establish a darker, more mature direction for pinball design that influenced many subsequent games.