Does Bally Still Make Pinball Machines?

Bally, once a dominant name in the pinball and arcade gaming industry, is a company with a storied history that many enthusiasts and industry experts remember fondly. For decades, Bally was synonymous with pinball machines, producing some of the most iconic and beloved games in the history of the medium. However, as the gaming industry evolved, Bally's role in it shifted. This article delves into whether Bally still makes pinball machines today, exploring the history of the company, the changes in the industry, and where Bally stands now.

The Golden Age of Bally Pinball Machines

Bally Manufacturing was founded in 1932 by Raymond Moloney, and it quickly established itself as a leader in the coin-operated amusement industry. By the 1940s, Bally had ventured into the pinball machine market, and over the next few decades, it became one of the top producers of pinball machines in the world. Bally's games were known for their innovative designs, engaging gameplay, and cutting-edge technology. Titles like "Eight Ball," "Mata Hari," and "Fireball" are still celebrated by pinball enthusiasts today.

In the 1970s and 1980s, Bally was at the forefront of the pinball industry's golden age. This period saw an explosion in the popularity of pinball machines, fueled by technological advancements that allowed for more complex and engaging games. Bally's machines were a staple in arcades, bars, and other entertainment venues across the globe. The company also expanded into video games, acquiring Midway Manufacturing in 1969, which became well-known for classic arcade games like "Pac-Man" and "Galaga."

The Decline and Transition

Despite its early success, Bally's fortunes began to change in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The rise of home video game consoles, coupled with the declining popularity of arcades, led to a downturn in the pinball industry. Many manufacturers, including Bally, struggled to adapt to this new landscape. In 1988, Bally merged with Williams Electronics, another major player in the pinball and arcade game industry. The merger led to the consolidation of operations, and for a time, Bally-Williams continued to produce pinball machines under both brand names.

However, by the late 1990s, the pinball market had shrunk significantly. In 1999, Williams decided to exit the pinball business altogether, focusing instead on casino gaming machines. This marked the end of Bally's involvement in the pinball industry as well. The Bally name continued to be used in the casino and gaming sectors, but its days as a pinball manufacturer were over.

The Legacy and Modern-Day Bally

Today, Bally is no longer an independent company. It has undergone several changes in ownership and is now part of the global gaming corporation, Scientific Games Corporation, which acquired Bally Technologies in 2014. While Bally as a brand still exists, it is now primarily associated with casino gaming equipment and software, including slot machines and digital gaming platforms. The Bally name continues to carry weight in the gaming industry, but it is far removed from its pinball roots.

For pinball enthusiasts, the Bally brand lives on in the form of classic machines that are still played and collected by fans around the world. Many of these vintage Bally pinball machines are highly sought after, with some even being restored and maintained by dedicated collectors. The legacy of Bally's contribution to the pinball industry is still very much alive, even if the company itself no longer produces these machines.

The Resurgence of Pinball

Interestingly, while Bally no longer makes pinball machines, the broader pinball industry has experienced something of a resurgence in recent years. A new generation of players and collectors has emerged, drawn to the tactile, mechanical nature of pinball in an increasingly digital world. Several companies, including Stern Pinball and Jersey Jack Pinball, have taken up the mantle, producing new machines that build on the legacy of companies like Bally.

These modern machines often feature advanced technology, including LCD screens, complex lighting systems, and licensed themes from popular movies, TV shows, and other media. The resurgence has even seen the re-release of some classic Bally machines, either as direct reproductions or as new versions inspired by the originals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Bally no longer manufactures pinball machines, having shifted its focus to the casino gaming industry following its merger with Williams and subsequent acquisitions. However, the legacy of Bally pinball machines endures, with the brand's classic games continuing to be celebrated and enjoyed by enthusiasts worldwide. While the company has moved on to other ventures, the impact of its contributions to the pinball industry remains significant, ensuring that the Bally name will always be associated with the golden age of pinball.

As the pinball industry experiences a revival, the influence of Bally's innovations and design excellence continues to be felt, proving that while the company may have changed, its legacy in the world of pinball is indelible.