I’ve been on the lookout for a classic ’80s machine to add some variety to my collection—and after bouncing between a few titles, Medusa came up for sale at a good price, I didn’t hesitate. Pulled the trigger!
I’ve always thought Medusa was something special. The striking fantasy artwork, those eerie sound effects—and that voice! Just brilliant. The machine does play, but the playfield definitely needs some TLC. I’m seriously considering getting a replacement playfield to bring it back to its full glory. The mid-playfield score display isn’t functioning correctly either, so that’s on the fix-it list too.
One of the coolest features is the upper playfield’s “Time-Locked Zipper Flippers”, which close inward, letting you nail those metamorphic drop targets with precision. And down below, the transparent lower flippers add a unique visual touch. Right between them sits the infamous center flipper, sometimes called the “savior” or “sacrificial” flipper. It gives you one last desperate chance to save a draining ball—or, if mistimed, sends it straight to its doom. Totally innovative for 1981.
Medusa was designed by Wally Welch, with software by Rehman Merchant and that stunning artwork by Kevin O’Connor. Released by Bally in September 1981, it’s a true solid-state classic—and I’m buzzing to bring it back to life.
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