Machine Description

Star Race was a space-themed electro-mechanical pinball machine produced by Italian manufacturer Zaccaria during the mid-1970s, reflecting the era's widespread fascination with space exploration and science fiction. The machine emerged during a critical period when European pinball manufacturers were working to compete with their American counterparts.

The playfield design embraced the cosmic theme with stylized rocket ships, planets, and stellar imagery typical of the period's space-age aesthetic. As an electro-mechanical machine, it featured the characteristic clicking and chiming of mechanical score reels and bells, alongside vibrant artwork that captured the excitement of space exploration. The gameplay focused on hitting various targets and drop targets that represented different space objectives.

While not as widely distributed as contemporary American machines, Star Race represented Zaccaria's growing presence in the European market during the 1970s. It helped establish the company's reputation for creating unique themes and playfield designs that offered alternatives to the dominant American manufacturers. The machine is now considered a collectible example of European pinball manufacturing from the pre-solid state era.