Machine Description

Hurricane, released by Williams Electronics in 1991, represents one of the last solid-state pinball machines before the industry's transition to dot matrix displays. The machine captures the raw power and excitement of extreme weather, featuring a dynamic weather theme that resonated with players during the early 1990s arcade era.

The gameplay design, created by Barry Oursler with art by Doug Watson, incorporates innovative features including a rotating cylinder 'storm' mechanism, multiple ramps, and a unique 'Hurricane Hideout' shot. The machine's audio package includes digitized weather sounds and dramatic music that heightens the intensity of gameplay. The playfield layout is considered particularly well-balanced, offering both casual accessibility and deeper scoring possibilities for experienced players.

Production numbers for Hurricane reached approximately 4,400 units, making it a moderately successful release for Williams during a transformative period in pinball history. The machine gained recognition for its smooth flow and risk-reward shot combinations, though it was overshadowed by some of Williams' other releases from the same era like Terminator 2 and The Addams Family.

Today, Hurricane is respected among collectors for representing the pinnacle of solid-state technology just before the industry's shift to dot matrix displays. Its weather theme and solid engineering have helped it maintain popularity in the collector market, with many machines still in active operation at pinball venues worldwide.