Firepower

Firepower, released by Williams Electronics in 1980, stands as one of the most important and innovative solid-state pinball machines of its era. It was notably the first pinball machine to feature multi-ball play as a mainstream feature, revolutionizing pinball gameplay mechanics and setting a standard that would influence machine design for decades to come.

Designed by Steve Ritchie with art by Constantino Mitchell, Firepower introduced several groundbreaking features beyond just multi-ball play. It featured a unique three-magnet ball lock mechanism, a sophisticated lane-change system, and pioneering use of electronic sound effects that helped establish the audio personality of modern pinball. The game's military theme, with its missile silos and nuclear warfare motifs, perfectly captured the Cold War tensions of its time while delivering exciting gameplay.

Firepower was an immediate commercial success, with approximately 17,410 units produced. This significant production run made it one of Williams' most successful games of the early solid-state era. The machine's popularity helped establish Williams as the dominant force in pinball manufacturing during the 1980s, and its innovations influenced countless subsequent designs.

The legacy of Firepower continues to resonate in the pinball community today. It is highly sought after by collectors and regularly featured in pinball competitions. The game's combination of innovative features, solid engineering, and engaging gameplay has earned it a permanent place in pinball history, often being cited as one of the most important pinball machines ever created.