If you’re browsing for a pinball machine for sale and considering either Whitewater or FunHouse, you’re looking at two of the quirkiest and most beloved classics in pinball history.
At House of Pinball, we’ve sold, restored, and serviced both of these machines for years. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a serious collector, this guide breaks down their features, gameplay, collector value, and investment potential—so you can make the right choice for your home or arcade.
🆚 Quick Comparison Overview
| Feature | Whitewater | FunHouse |
|---|---|---|
| Year Released | 1993 | 1990 |
| Designer | Dennis Nordman | Pat Lawlor |
| Manufacturer | Williams | Williams |
| Playfield Style | Flowing, fast-paced ramps | Stop-and-go, interactive toy |
| Primary Toy | Bigfoot animatronic head | Rudy (talking ventriloquist dummy) |
| Gameplay Depth | Medium-High | Medium |
| Units Produced | ~7,008 | ~10,000 |
| Market Value (2025) | $$$ | $$$ |
| Beginner Friendly | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
🏔️ Whitewater: Wild Ramps & Bigfoot Shenanigans
Whitewater is a fast-paced, mountain rafting adventure designed by Dennis Nordman. With its unique “upper playfield” layout and insane ramp combos, it’s one of the most visually exciting and flow-based games of the 90s.
🔧 Standout Features:
- 3-level playfield with six ramps
- Bigfoot animatronic head that interacts with shots
- Hidden trapdoor and Whirlpool ramp
- Catchy mountain banjo soundtrack
🎮 Gameplay Style:
Whitewater rewards speed, combo accuracy, and well-timed shots. The game’s objective is to “Advance Rafts” and reach “Wet Willie’s Peak”—the wizard mode that challenges players to complete every task.
✅ Best for: Flow-loving players who enjoy ramps, combos, and high-speed action.
🎡 FunHouse: The Game with Attitude
FunHouse is one of the most iconic and interactive pinball machines ever made. Designed by Pat Lawlor (also known for The Addams Family and Twilight Zone), this game is centered around Rudy, a talking dummy with an attitude.
🔧 Standout Features:
- Rudy’s moving face, eyes, and mouth that taunt you mid-game
- Time-based mode progression (Day > Night > Multiball)
- Classic fairground theme with carnival music and sounds
🎮 Gameplay Style:
FunHouse has tight shots, stop-and-go moments, and emphasizes hitting Rudy in the mouth to start multiball. The progressive clock mechanic gives players a unique, objective-based experience.
✅ Best for: Players who love interactive toys, story progression, and nostalgic themes.
💸 Price, Rarity & Collector Value
| Factor | Whitewater | FunHouse |
|---|---|---|
| Estimated Price (2025) | $6,500 – $9,500 | $5,500 – $8,000 |
| Rarity | Moderate | Common (but high demand) |
| Demand | High | Very High |
| Resale Value | Stable to rising | Stable (especially for collectors) |
🧠 Expert Insight:
- Whitewater is slightly harder to find in good condition due to its complex ramp system and mechanical toys.
- FunHouse has more units in circulation, but original, unrestored machines may need more work.
At House of Pinball, all machines are professionally restored, tested, and ready for home use—so you don’t need to worry about finding a “fixer-upper.”
🛠️ Maintenance & Parts Availability
Both machines are based on the Williams WPC system, which means:
- ✅ Excellent parts availability
- ✅ Tons of mods and upgrades available (LEDs, toppers, playfield protectors)
- ✅ Strong community support
FunHouse has a modern remake (FunHouse: Rudy’s Nightmare), which has helped renew interest and improve parts availability.
📈 Investment Potential
- Whitewater continues to rise in value due to its low production numbers and unique playfield.
- FunHouse holds steady due to its popularity and iconic design.
Both are solid investments, especially when bought fully restored from a reputable seller.
🧭 Which One Should You Buy?
Here’s our no-fluff recommendation based on 12+ years of pinball experience:
👉 Choose Whitewater if:
- You prefer fast-flowing games with lots of ramps
- You want something visually dynamic with depth
- You like games with exploration and progression
👉 Choose FunHouse if:
- You love character-based games with interactive toys
- You enjoy a nostalgic, carnival-style theme
- You want a conversation starter in your game room
Either way, you’re not just buying a pinball machine—you’re owning a piece of arcade history.
🛒 Buy with Confidence from House of Pinball
At House of Pinball, we offer:
- ✅ Fully restored Whitewater and FunHouse machines
- ✅ Limited warranty & lifetime support
- ✅ Nationwide shipping
- ✅ Transparent pricing & expert guidance
🎯 Don’t trust your dream machine to a Craigslist seller. We back every game with 12+ years of service, integrity, and pinball passion.