Vampire

Released by D. Gottlieb & Co. in 1980, 'Vampire' embodied the growing trend of horror-themed pinball machines that capitalized on the supernatural entertainment boom of the late 1970s and early 1980s. This solid-state pinball machine arrived during a pivotal transition period in pinball history, as manufacturers were fully embracing electronic components over electro-mechanical systems.

The machine's artwork and playfield design captured the gothic horror aesthetic perfectly, featuring dramatic artwork of a vampire rising from his coffin, surrounded by bats and moonlit castle imagery. The playfield incorporated multiple drop targets, pop bumpers, and a unique center shot that represented the vampire's coffin. The game's sound package included eerie music and atmospheric effects that were impressive for its era.

Vampire's gameplay emphasized risk-reward scenarios, with players attempting to complete various target combinations to 'stake the vampire' for maximum points. The machine's ruleset was sophisticated enough to challenge skilled players while remaining accessible to casual players, a balance that Gottlieb was known for achieving. Multiple players could compete for high scores, with the game storing the top four scores.

Production numbers for Vampire were relatively modest compared to some of Gottlieb's other releases of the period, making it a sought-after collector's piece today. The machine's theme and timing helped it stand out in arcades and bars, arriving just as vampire entertainment was seeing a resurgence in popular culture. Its influence can be seen in later horror-themed pinball machines, helping establish supernatural themes as a viable genre for pinball design.