If you’re searching for a pinball machine for sale, few names carry as much weight in the industry as Bally. With decades of history, innovation, and legendary titles, Bally pinball machines are some of the most sought-after by collectors and players alike.
In this definitive collector’s guide, we break down every Bally pinball machine ever made, share what makes them special, and—most importantly—help you decide which one to buy and where to find authentic Bally pinball machines for sale today.
🏆 Why Bally Pinball Machines Are Collector Favorites
Founded in 1932 and entering the pinball market in 1936, Bally became one of the most influential pinball manufacturers in history. From early electro-mechanical games to classic 1980s solid-state icons, Bally pinball machines are known for:
- Timeless design and artwork
- Innovative playfield mechanics
- Engaging gameplay
- High collector value
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned collector, Bally has a machine that matches your passion and style.
📚 The Complete List of Bally Pinball Machines (1930s–1980s)
Here’s a curated timeline of Bally’s most iconic machines, with quick notes on collector value and gameplay highlights:
Year | Pinball Machine | Notes |
---|---|---|
1975 | Hi-Deal | Card-themed, early solid-state mechanics |
1978 | Playboy | Hugely popular; iconic theme; high resale value |
1979 | Paragon | Wide-body; fantasy theme; deep gameplay |
1980 | Xenon | First talking female voice; sci-fi art |
1981 | Eight Ball Deluxe | Legendary barroom favorite |
1982 | Medusa | Unique features like zipper flippers |
1983 | Centaur | Cult classic with black-and-white artwork |
1984 | Kings of Steel | Mid-80s solid-state with castle theme |
1985 | Blackwater 100 | Motocross theme, multilevel playfield |
Note: Bally manufactured well over 100 machines between the ’30s and ’80s. You can find the complete list here or visit our showroom for a hands-on experience.
🧠 How to Choose the Right Bally Pinball Machine
Not all Bally pinball machines are created equal—especially when it comes to value, playability, and maintenance. Here’s how to make the right choice:
🔹 1. Define Your Budget
- Entry-level collectors: $2,000–$4,000 (e.g., Hi-Deal, Kings of Steel)
- Mid-tier icons: $4,000–$6,000 (e.g., Xenon, Medusa)
- Top-tier classics: $6,000+ (e.g., Playboy, Eight Ball Deluxe, Centaur)
🔹 2. Consider Your Space
Some Bally models like Paragon are wide-body machines and require more space. Always check dimensions before purchase.
🔹 3. Determine Your Purpose
- Want it for home use? Choose something fun and easy to maintain (Eight Ball Deluxe).
- Want a long-term investment? Go for high-value collectibles like Centaur or Playboy.
🛒 Where to Buy Bally Pinball Machines (The Right Way)
At House of Pinball, we specialize in:
- ✅ Fully restored Bally machines
- ✅ Authentic parts & vintage artwork
- ✅ Nationwide shipping
- ✅ In-store or virtual demos
Every machine goes through a 52-point inspection and comes with a warranty—so you can buy with total confidence.
⚡️ Looking for a specific Bally pinball machine for sale?
🔍 Browse our current inventory or 📞 Contact us for sourcing requests.
🔧 Restored vs. Original Condition: What’s Better?
Type | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|
Restored | Fully playable, updated electronics, clean cosmetics | Higher price |
Original | Authentic aging, ideal for purists | May need repairs, not plug-and-play |
Tip: If you’re new to collecting, we always recommend buying a restored Bally machine from a trusted dealer like House of Pinball. It eliminates surprise repair costs and ensures better resale value.