Overview
This document summarizes key information and themes extracted from various sources regarding Bally's 1981 Medusa pinball machine.
Key Features and Gameplay
Innovative Gameplay: Medusa stands out with its unique "Zipper Flippers" on the upper playfield. These flippers close inwards on a timer, allowing for targeted shots at the metamorphic drop targets. The player-controlled "Shield of the Gods" post between the lower flippers adds a strategic element to ball saving.
"The upper flippers actually mechanically turn the lights on and off there's an actual switch next to the end of strokes which clever they didn't need to have electronics to do that.”
"The upper two flippers are 'Time Locked Zipper Flippers'. A row of red lights along top of playfield illuminate to reflect the bonus adding and subtracting."
Challenging Design: Medusa is widely recognized for its demanding gameplay. The skill shot is notoriously difficult to hit, and the outlanes are notoriously hungry for pinballs.
"You need to use your flipper right away if you do you luck out these move in but you can still lose the ball between the center"
"Brutally difficult game with awesome artwork. There is a lot to do for a game from this era...if you can play long enough to do it. Easily one of the top 'drain monsters' I have ever played."
Layered Playfield: The playfield is divided into upper and lower sections, almost acting as two separate games. Success hinges on effectively transitioning between the two areas.
"The upper and lower parts of the playfield are like two separate worlds."
Technical Specifications
Manufacturer: Bally Manufacturing Corporation
Release Date: September 1981
Production: 3,250 Units
Model Number: 1245
MPU: Bally MPU AS-2518-35
Artwork and Theme
Visually Striking: Medusa features an iconic red cabinet and a backglass with vibrant artwork by Kevin O'Connor. The theme is rooted in Greek mythology, showcasing Medusa and various mythological figures.
"look at the artwork let's start at that beautiful beautiful job I'm in Bali through everything in on this baby I mean they covered everything tons of programming even this neat light bar at the top"
"The blood red cabinet, back glass, and playfield is striking. And the art is dynamic."
Community Perception and Value
Cult Following: While perhaps not as well-known as some other Bally classics, Medusa has a dedicated fanbase who appreciate its unique gameplay and aesthetic.
"This is a pretty cool machine dont seem to get the love of Fathom, Centaur FG etc but still a very nice machine."
Collector's Item: As a relatively rare machine with a distinctive design, Medusa is highly sought after by collectors. Prices for restored and well-maintained machines can fetch a premium.
Marketplace listings show prices for Medusa in the $3,000- $7,000 range depending on condition.
Areas of Improvement
Sound: While featuring speech, the audio is often cited as a weak point, with many wishing for a more thematic female voice.
"The only thing they don't make I'm very sad to say or the clear the translucent targets at the top"
"Synthesized voice is spooky and the sound effects are good, background hum is functional but otherwise meh."
Rules Complexity: The depth of the rules can be intimidating to new players, contributing to the perception that the game is overly difficult. A more intuitive rulesheet or in-game guidance could enhance the experience.
Lack of Multiball: Given the fast-paced gameplay and numerous targets, many feel that Medusa could benefit from a multiball mode. Neptune's Cove seems like a natural fit for initiating such a feature.
"The only real significant flaw, in my opinion, is the lack of a multi-ball."
Conclusion
Bally's Medusa remains a compelling and challenging pinball experience more than 40 years after its release. The game's striking visuals, unique features like zipper flippers, and demanding gameplay continue to attract a dedicated following. Addressing the minor shortcomings, particularly in the sound department, could further elevate this classic machine's status.
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