The Championship Pub Pinball Machine (1997)

By Bally is a sports bar-themed pinball machine that takes place in a pub setting, blending elements of boxing and barroom activities into an entertaining and interactive pinball experience. It’s known for its unique boxing theme, which was quite a departure from many other machines produced in the late 90s, and its fun, casual atmosphere.

Key Features

1. Theme and Artwork:

   • The game is set in a sports bar/pub, with the primary theme being a boxing tournament.

   • The artwork on the playfield and cabinet features various boxing and pub elements, including bar stools, beer mugs, and a boxing ring.

   • The characters in the game are portrayed as boxers, with the goal being to work your way through the ranks to win the championship.

2. Gameplay:

   • Boxing Tournament: The gameplay revolves around winning a series of boxing matches by hitting various targets and completing certain objectives, mimicking the journey of a boxer trying to win a championship.

   • Player as Boxer: You start by being an underdog boxer and work your way up, fighting increasingly difficult opponents.

   • Ramps and Targets: Several ramps, bumpers, and target banks are designed to keep the gameplay fast-paced and fun, with players needing to shoot for different targets to progress through the game.

3. Interactive Features:

   • Ring and Boxer Animations: The machine includes animated boxer characters who come to life during certain modes and interactions.

   • Prize Mode: There are features like the Prize Mode, where you can win medals or points as you progress, much like the rewards you would earn after a big victory.

4. Multiball Features:

   • The game has several multiball modes, including Championship Multiball, which increases the excitement by allowing players to shoot multiple balls and rack up large points.

5. Sound and Music:

   • The machine includes an energetic soundtrack, with music and sound effects designed to evoke the feel of a lively pub or sports event.

   • Boxer Voiceovers: The game also has voice clips from the boxers, with each fighter taunting the player as they try to progress through the ranks.

6. Boxing Ring Toy:

   • The key interactive toy in this machine is a boxing ring, which includes a punching bag mechanism that reacts to the player’s actions. When certain objectives are completed, the punching bag swings or reacts to the action, increasing player immersion.

7. Modes:

   • Boxing Tournaments: Players progress through a series of boxing matches, each featuring different opponents and challenges.

   • Bar-themed Challenges: Completing certain objectives within the pub environment, such as serving drinks or meeting specific bar-related tasks, adds more layers to the gameplay.

8. Collectability and Value:

   • The Championship Pub Pinball Machine has a niche appeal, especially for fans of boxing and sports bars.

   • As a Bally-produced machine from 1997, it’s considered to be part of the golden age of pinball, making it valuable to collectors who enjoy its unique theme and fun mechanics. Championship Pub Pinball Machine