If you’re shopping for a pinball machine for sale and are torn between Theatre of Magic and Tales of the Arabian Nights, you’re not alone. Both are late-90s Bally/Williams masterpieces, known for their incredible artwork, sound, and gameplay—but each delivers a unique experience.
At House of Pinball, we’ve restored and sold hundreds of these titles. This article gives you a transparent, expert comparison so you can confidently decide which machine deserves a spot in your game room or collection.
🧙 Quick Overview
| Feature | Theatre of Magic | Tales of the Arabian Nights |
|---|---|---|
| Year Released | 1995 | 1996 |
| Manufacturer | Bally/Williams | Williams |
| Units Produced | ~6,600 | ~3,128 |
| Playfield Theme | Magic & Illusion | Arabian Adventure |
| Gameplay Depth | Medium-High | Medium |
| Collector Value | High | Very High (rarer) |
| Beginner Friendly | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Artwork & Design | Elegant & Mysterious | Vibrant & Exotic |
🎭 Theatre of Magic: The Ultimate Illusionist Experience
Theatre of Magic is one of the most sought-after Bally pinball machines ever created. Designed by John Popadiuk, it immerses players in a world of magic, tricks, and theatrical flair.
✨ Key Features:
- Magna-save-style “Magician’s Trunk” toy that locks balls and reveals tricks
- Fast, flowing ramps and loops
- Memorable callouts and sound design
- Beautiful cabinet and backglass artwork
🎮 Gameplay Experience:
This game balances fast-paced fun with layered objectives, including the ultimate wizard mode: “The Grand Finale.”
Perfect for home users, it offers enough challenge for repeat plays, without overwhelming casual players.
✅ Best For: Magic fans, families, casual players, and collectors wanting a beautiful centerpiece machine.
🕌 Tales of the Arabian Nights: A Journey Through Myth & Legend
Released just a year after Theatre of Magic, Tales of the Arabian Nights (TOTAN) is another John Popadiuk gem. TOTAN is more than a game—it’s a full-blown pinball adventure.
✨ Key Features:
- Spinning magic lamp with magnet to simulate being pulled into a whirlwind
- 7 tales (modes) to complete
- Sword fight with the Genie
- Stunning hand-drawn art and soundscapes
🎮 Gameplay Experience:
TOTAN has a more narrative-driven style, guiding players through seven tales inspired by Arabian folklore. It’s less combo-heavy but rich in story and theme.
✅ Best For: Players who enjoy immersive stories, collectors of rare machines, and those drawn to exotic aesthetics.
🛠️ Maintenance & Parts Availability
Both Theatre of Magic and Tales of the Arabian Nights were made in the WPC-95 system, meaning:
- Parts are still available
- Both are relatively easy to maintain compared to older EM or early SS games
- Aftermarket mods are widely available (LED kits, trunk replacements, topper upgrades)
✅ At House of Pinball, all machines come fully restored, tested, and guaranteed — no surprises, just plug and play.
💰 Value & Rarity: Which Is the Better Investment?
| Factor | Theatre of Magic | Tales of the Arabian Nights |
|---|---|---|
| Average Price (2025) | $8,500–$11,000 | $10,000–$13,000+ |
| Production Numbers | ~6,600 units | ~3,128 units |
| Appreciation Trend | Stable to Rising | Rising (more rare) |
| Collector Demand | High | Very High |
🧠 Expert Take:
TOTAN is rarer, which may offer more long-term investment potential, but Theatre of Magic often has broader appeal for resale, especially to first-time buyers.
🔍 Which One Should You Choose?
🎩 Choose Theatre of Magic If:
- You want fast, satisfying gameplay with combo shots
- You like magic themes and elegant aesthetics
- You’re buying your first machine and want something intuitive
- You want a showpiece with high replay value
🕌 Choose Tales of the Arabian Nights If:
- You’re looking for a rarer, highly collectible game
- You enjoy narrative-based gameplay with a deeper story
- You want stunning, exotic visuals and unique toys
- You’re a serious collector adding depth to your lineup
🛒 Where to Buy These Machines
At House of Pinball, we offer fully restored, original Theatre of Magic and Tales of the Arabian Nights machines — available for immediate delivery.
Every machine is:
- 🧰 Restored by professionals
- 🔎 Play-tested and guaranteed
- 🚚 Shipped nationwide
- 🛡️ Backed by a limited warranty
- 🤝 Supported by 12+ years of pinball expertise
🎯 Don’t risk your investment with private sellers or online auctions. Get certified quality from a team that lives and breathes pinball.