Vintage Pinball Machines

Bright lights, loud music, unique colorful graphics and row after row of vintage pinball machines. Children and adults are hunched over the games their fingers flying as they furiously hit the buttons that manipulate the flippers.

And then the metallic ball is pushed back into the fast-paced pinball game.The ball hits targets and rings bells, the flippers are pushed frantically as the pinball player attempts to keep the ball in motion. Watch the player's eyes follow the motion can you see the flashing lights and hear the ringing bells?

Remember don't push too hard against the machine or you'll hit TILT and then the game is over!

Classic pinball machines are not only fun to play they are collectible and a glimpse into the history and eras of graphic design. Whether you're a collector, a history lover or just love playing pinball take a walk with me through a local pinball arcade in Manitou Springs, Colorado.

As early as the late 1700s, people were playing a game similar to the popular arcade game of pinball. Modern technology brought coin-operation, bumpers, flipper and digital displays but the object was the same. Try to collect as many points as possible without losing the metallic ball to the game. If you keep the ball in motion you win additional points, bragging rights and additional balls.

On a recent trip to a local arcade in Manitou Springs, Colorado the history of pinball was on display as many of the early arcade games to modern pinball games today were restored and ready to play!

• What to look for in a vintage pinball machine?
• Colorful graphics
• Unique design
• Game play
• Does it work? If not can you find someone locally who works on pinball machines
• Popular themes