Rediscovering Swords of Fury: Unique Layout, Epic Soundtrack

Swords of Fury Pinball Machine Overview

Swords of Fury (SoF) is a solid-state electronic pinball machine manufactured by Williams Electronics Games in 1988. With its fantasy theme, engaging gameplay, and distinctive sound design, SoF remains a popular and sought-after machine among pinball enthusiasts.

Key Features

• Theme: Fantasy, knights, wizards, medieval

• Production: 2,705 units (confirmed)

• Notable Features: Mini-playfield, 3-ball multiball, progressive difficulty on mini-playfield drop targets, four flippers, unique U-turn ramp

• Design Team:Concept: Doug Watson

• Design: Steve Kirk, Tony Kraemer

• Art: Doug Watson

• Music & Sound: Brian Schmidt

• Software: Dan Lee

Gameplay

SoF is known for its fast and challenging gameplay. The machine features:

• Three Playfield Areas: The main playfield, the upper mini-playfield, and the "MAGIC" playfield, offering diverse gameplay and shot variety.

• Unique Shots: The "3x U turn" shot with double spinners, the "Lionman" shot, and timed shots up the Magic Tunnel and Lionman ramps provide unique challenges.

• Progressive Difficulty: The mini-playfield drop targets reset slower each time they are dropped, increasing the difficulty as the game progresses.

• Challenging Multiball: Achieving multiball and hitting the jackpot requires precision and skill.

Strengths

• Engaging Gameplay: SoF offers a unique and challenging pinball experience with its diverse playfield areas, unique shots, and progressive difficulty.

• Distinctive Sound Design: The music and sound effects, particularly the sword "Schlliiing!!" sounds and the memorable, albeit sometimes repetitive, "Lionman!" callout, contribute to the immersive gameplay.

• Strong Art Package: The fantasy-themed artwork on the playfield, backglass, and cabinet creates a cohesive and visually appealing aesthetic.

• Rarity: With a limited production run, SoF is considered a rare and desirable machine among collectors.

Weaknesses

• Repetitive Callouts: The "Lionman!" shout, while iconic, can become grating for some players after extended play.

• Lack of "Lite Lock" Mechanic: The ease of repeatedly locking balls for multiball can detract from the overall gameplay challenge for experienced players.

• Risky U-Turn Shot: The double spinner U-turn shot, while unique, is considered risky and not as rewarding as other shots on the playfield.

Market Value

Based on Pinside Marketplace listings, Swords of Fury machines in various conditions have sold for prices ranging from approximately $3,000 to $7,000. Factors influencing the value include condition, restoration level, and included modifications.

Overall Reception

Swords of Fury enjoys a positive reception among pinball enthusiasts, with an average rating of 7.97/10 on Pinside. Players praise its engaging gameplay, distinctive sound design, and unique features. While some criticize the repetitive callouts and lack of a "Lite Lock" mechanic, SoF is generally regarded as a well-designed and entertaining pinball machine.

Quotes from Owners and Reviewers

• “It's a shooter's delight which rewards skilled players with a nice light show, great music and addictive game play.” - pete (Pinside user)

• "A thoroughly enjoyable playfield that keeps the true pinball player coming back for 'just one more' game." - 2ManyToys (Pinside user)

• "This game is fast, almost impossible to beat with 3 balls, the mechanics are practically bullet proof." - Ryne33 (Pinside user)

• "Swords of Fury is way more fun than an 88' pinball machine should, I think it will stand up to the test of time as it has already made it this far." - DeputyDrain (Pinside user)

• "It’s definitely worth a play just for the layout and tunes!" - BalkeBoy (Pinside user)