Star Trek

Data East's 'Star Trek' pinball machine, released in 1991, represents one of the most significant licensed Star Trek games of the early 1990s, capitalizing on the massive popularity of Star Trek: The Next Generation which was at its peak during this period. The machine notably featured voice clips from the original Star Trek series and artwork showcasing both the original Enterprise and key crew members.

The pinball machine's design incorporated numerous elements from the Star Trek universe, including phaser shots, photon torpedoes, and iconic spacecraft designs. The playfield featured multiple ramps, drop targets representing various alien antagonists, and a unique 'Enterprise Mission' multiball mode that was groundbreaking for its time. The backglass artwork prominently displayed Captain Kirk and the Enterprise, creating an immediately recognizable connection to the franchise.

From a historical perspective, this machine arrived at a crucial transition period in pinball history, released just before the widespread adoption of dot matrix displays. It utilized traditional digital numeric displays while incorporating sophisticated solid-state electronics for complex rule sets and sound effects. The game proved popular in arcades and helped bridge the gap between classic pinball design and the more feature-rich games that would follow in the mid-1990s.

Approximately 4,400 units were produced, making it a moderately successful release for Data East. Today, Star Trek pinball machines from this era are highly sought after by collectors, both for their historical significance and their representation of one of science fiction's most beloved franchises. The machine's blend of classic pinball action with Star Trek theming has helped it maintain its appeal among both pinball enthusiasts and Star Trek fans for over three decades.