Fireball II is a solid-state electronic pinball machine released by Bally in June 1981. Themed around fantasy and featuring a devilish aesthetic, the game includes features like a three-ball multiball, three flippers (including a unique center post flipper called "Little Demon"), and a captive ball bonus animation. Despite being a sequel to the popular 1972 Fireball, this game offers a distinct playfield layout and ruleset.
Reception and Ratings
Fireball II receives generally positive reviews, with an average rating hovering around 7.7 out of 10 across multiple sources. It's praised for its challenging yet fun gameplay, unique features, and vibrant artwork by Dave Christensen. However, some critics find the game repetitive or overly reliant on multiball.
Key Themes and Features
Challenging Gameplay: The game is praised for its fast-paced and engaging gameplay. As user Tilt on Pinside comments: "There are plenty of skill shots with three banks of drop targets and two capture holes. The intense sound and multiball action will command your full attention."
Little Demon Flipper: This unique center post flipper, activated by an extra button, adds a strategic layer to gameplay, allowing players to save balls from draining. User Marcus highlights this feature: "one of the best ballys of the early 80s with 3 ball multiball, kickout post between flippers [same as medusa] and awesome artwork".
Visual Appeal: The game boasts stunning artwork by Dave Christensen, known for his work on other Bally classics. The backglass, cabinet art, and playfield are praised for their vibrant colors and devilish theme. User grand champion notes: "One of the best-looking pins from the era."
Sound and Speech: While appreciated by some, the sound and speech receive mixed reviews. Some find them exciting and fitting, while others consider them repetitive or annoying. User PinSail offers an interesting perspective: "The audio language is sinister? It can be turned off for speaker chimes or space sounds."
Criticisms and Shortcomings
Sequel Stigma: The game is often overshadowed by its predecessor, the iconic 1972 Fireball. User John H aptly points out: "All it suffers from is a severe case of 'not being Fireball.'"
Repetitive Gameplay: Some reviewers find the gameplay can become repetitive, especially due to the heavy emphasis on multiball. User dpapclare mentions: "Machine was great fun to play, but ended up being slightly repetitive."
Maintenance Challenges: User ZZZbME, a pinball repair professional, offers a unique insight: "the sub-playfield underworld can be a nightmare to maintain, populated with the worst assemblage of assemblies and components in Bally's existence."
Market Value
Based on Pinside Marketplace archived ads, Fireball II typically sells in the $1,500 to $2,500 range, depending on condition and upgrades.
Conclusion
Fireball II is a solid and enjoyable pinball machine that offers a unique gameplay experience thanks to its "Little Demon" flipper and other features. While it may not reach the legendary status of its namesake, it remains a sought-after title for collectors and enthusiasts, particularly those interested in early solid-state games from Bally's golden era.
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