Machine Description

Data East's 'Time' pinball machine, released in 1994, represented an ambitious attempt to explore the fascinating concept of time travel through pinball gameplay. The machine capitalized on the growing popularity of science fiction themes in the early 1990s, particularly those involving temporal mechanics and paradoxes.

The game featured an innovative playfield design that incorporated multiple time periods, with players navigating through different historical eras via various shots and combinations. The dot-matrix display was utilized effectively to show time-travel sequences and various temporal events, while the playfield incorporated clockwork mechanisms and time-portal themed ramps that added both visual appeal and strategic depth to the gameplay.

Notable gameplay elements included a special 'Time Lock' feature where players could store balls for multiball play, representing frozen moments in time, and various missions that involved traveling to different historical periods. The machine's audio package included period-appropriate music and sound effects that changed depending on which era the player was currently exploring.

While not as widely recognized as some other titles from the era, 'Time' has maintained a dedicated following among collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate its unique theme and creative implementation of time-travel concepts in pinball form. The machine's production numbers were relatively modest, making it a somewhat rare find in today's collector's market.