Few pinball machines inspire as much passion as Medieval Madness and Attack from Mars. Both titles are hailed as iconic—not just for their gameplay but for their influence on modern pinball design.
If you’re hunting for a pinball machine for sale, you might be asking yourself:
“Which one should I buy: Medieval Madness or Attack from Mars?”
At House of Pinball, we’ve helped collectors and first-timers choose the machine that fits their needs, budget, and play style. In this side-by-side comparison, we’ll help you decide which of these legendary games deserves a spot in your home or game room.
🧠 The Designer Behind the Madness: Pat Lawlor?
Let’s clarify something upfront.
While Pat Lawlor is one of the most influential pinball designers ever (Twilight Zone, The Addams Family, Earthshaker), Medieval Madness and Attack from Mars were actually designed by Brian Eddy, another legendary name at Williams.
Still, both games were produced during the Golden Era of Bally/Williams in the 1990s—a time when Lawlor’s influence permeated the design room, and innovation was at its peak. So, we’re calling this the “Ultimate Showdown” of that golden era spirit.
🆚 Machine Overview
👑 Medieval Madness (1997)
- Manufacturer: Williams
- Designer: Brian Eddy
- Theme: Medieval knights, castles, trolls
- Signature Feature: Exploding castle with motorized gate
- Remake Available: Yes (Classic, Special, Royal Editions)
👽 Attack from Mars (1995)
- Manufacturer: Bally (Williams)
- Designer: Brian Eddy
- Theme: Sci-fi alien invasion
- Signature Feature: Moving saucer, strobe multiball
- Remake Available: Yes (Classic, Special, LE)
🎮 Gameplay Comparison
Medieval Madness
✅ Highly immersive storytelling
✅ Objective: Destroy castles, save damsels
✅ Interactive toys: Working castle gate, pop-up trolls
✅ Balanced for both beginners and experts
“You feel like you’re in the story—jousting, catapulting, rescuing, and conquering.”
Attack from Mars
✅ Faster gameplay
✅ Objective: Save the Earth from alien invasion
✅ Feature-packed: Strobe light, flying saucers, dancing martians
✅ Known for satisfying combo shots and smooth flow
“A pure adrenaline rush—fast, flashy, and endlessly replayable.”
🎯 Verdict:
- Want immersive, progressive play? Go with Medieval Madness
- Want faster, combo-driven action? Pick Attack from Mars
🎨 Artwork, Audio & Humor
Both machines ooze personality.
| Feature | Medieval Madness | Attack from Mars |
|---|---|---|
| Art Style | Storybook fantasy | Classic 1950s sci-fi |
| Callouts | Sarcastic kings, bumbling knights | Alien gibberish, military panic |
| Sound FX | Castle explosions, sword clashes | Ray guns, UFO blasts, strobe effects |
| Humor | Satirical medieval dialogue | Hilarious alien taunts |
🎯 Verdict:
Both machines are funny and well-voiced. If you lean toward medieval fantasy, MM wins. Prefer sci-fi kitsch? AFM is your match.
🔧 Build Quality & Availability
Thanks to Chicago Gaming Company, both games have been remade with modern enhancements—while staying true to the originals.
| Feature | Medieval Madness Remake | Attack from Mars Remake |
|---|---|---|
| HD Screens | Yes (Special & Royal Editions) | Yes (Special & LE editions) |
| RGB Lighting | Yes | Yes |
| Sound Upgrades | Yes | Yes |
| Online Support | Yes (via CGC) | Yes (via CGC) |
🎯 Verdict:
Modern remakes make both machines reliable, plug-and-play, and great for home ownership.
💰 Investment & Collector Value
Medieval Madness
- Original models are prized among collectors
- Royal Edition fetches high resale value
- Widely considered one of the top 3 machines of all time
Attack from Mars
- LE editions are climbing in value
- Offers equal gameplay quality at often lower price than MM
- Slightly more accessible on the resale market
🎯 Verdict:
- Want legendary value? Choose Medieval Madness Royal
- Want top-tier gameplay with better price? Attack from Mars Special Edition
🧭 Which One Should You Buy?
Here’s a quick decision table:
| Preference | Best Pick |
|---|---|
| Story-rich gameplay | Medieval Madness |
| Fast, combo-centric action | Attack from Mars |
| Fantasy theme | Medieval Madness |
| Sci-fi/arcade theme | Attack from Mars |
| Family-friendly appeal | Both! |
| Limited edition collector’s item | Medieval Madness Royal or AFM LE |
👉 Explore both games in our full collection of pinball machines for sale →
🛒 Ready to Buy?
At House of Pinball, we offer:
✅ Genuine remakes of Medieval Madness & Attack from Mars
✅ Transparent pricing — no hidden fees
✅ Nationwide shipping & white-glove delivery
✅ Expert service & support
✅ Trade-ins and financing options available