Xenon (pinball)

Xenon is a pinball machine designed by Paul Pruneau and released by Bally in 1980. It is notable for several features that were innovative for its time, contributing to its popularity and lasting impact on pinball design.

Key Features:

• Speech Synthesis: Xenon was among the first pinball machines to feature synthesized speech. A female voice, often referred to as the "Xenon voice," guides the player through the game, announcing game states and awarding bonuses. This was a significant advancement over the simple chimes and bells traditionally used for audio feedback.

• Tubes: The playfield features distinctive clear tubes that the ball travels through. These tubes connect different sections of the playfield and create a visually appealing element, enhancing the kinetic energy and spatial complexity of the game.

• Multiball: Xenon offers a multiball mode, where multiple pinballs are in play simultaneously. This feature is a staple in modern pinball but was less common in earlier machines.

• Playfield Layout: The game features a unique playfield layout with ramps, targets, and pop bumpers arranged to create a challenging and engaging playing experience. The layout encourages strategic shot-making and rewards skilled players.

Gameplay:

The primary objective of Xenon is to activate the various targets and features on the playfield to score points and achieve bonus objectives. Successfully navigating the tubes, triggering the pop bumpers, and activating multiball mode are key to achieving high scores. The speech synthesis provides feedback and cues to the player, enhancing the overall immersive experience.

Legacy:

Xenon is considered a classic pinball machine and is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. Its pioneering use of speech synthesis and its unique playfield design helped to pave the way for future advancements in pinball technology and game design. It remains a popular and influential title in pinball history.