Machine Description

Motordome, released by Williams in 1957, captured the thrilling essence of motorcycle racing and the popular motorsports culture of the 1950s. The machine's theme was inspired by the death-defying motorcycle stunts performed in wooden motordomes, where riders would circle nearly vertical walls at high speeds - a popular carnival attraction of the era.

The pinball machine featured innovative artwork depicting motorcyclists racing on the steep walls of a motordome, with dynamic illustrations that embodied the speed and danger of the sport. The playfield design included several rollovers, pop bumpers, and target banks that simulated the circular motion of motordome racing. As typical of electro-mechanical machines of this period, it utilized mechanical score reels and chimes to provide player feedback.

As one of Williams' releases during the golden age of electro-mechanical pinball, Motordome helped establish the company's reputation for creating themed machines that resonated with popular entertainment of the time. The game's success demonstrated the public's fascination with motorsports and helped pave the way for future racing-themed pinball machines. While production numbers are not widely documented, Motordome represents an important piece of both pinball and Americana history, reflecting the intersection of carnival culture and mechanical amusement devices of the 1950s.