Whirlwind (pinball)

Whirlwind is a pinball machine designed by Pat Lawlor and Louis Koziarz, and released by Williams Electronics in 1990. It is notable for its complex gameplay, innovative features, and wide popularity, establishing itself as a classic in the pinball world.

The central theme of Whirlwind revolves around weather and, specifically, simulated wind effects. Three spinning discs mounted on top of the playfield represent tornadoes. These discs are activated by the player completing certain objectives and strategically aimed to blow air at the pinball or disrupt gameplay.

Gameplay objectives typically involve shooting ramps and targets to advance through different stages. A key feature is the "Multiball" mode, where multiple balls are simultaneously in play, significantly increasing the potential for high scores and requiring advanced pinball skills.

Whirlwind is characterized by its distinctive sound effects, which include wind noises, thunderclaps, and digitized speech related to weather conditions. The machine's artwork further reinforces the weather theme with depictions of tornadoes and stormy landscapes.

The machine's enduring appeal stems from its engaging gameplay, innovative features, and the thematic integration of weather elements, making it a highly sought-after title among pinball enthusiasts and collectors. It is considered a significant title in pinball history, contributing to the evolution of pinball design and gameplay mechanics.