The Hercules pinball machine,

Released by Atari in 1979, holds the distinction of being the largest pinball machine ever commercially produced. Its colossal dimensions—8 feet long, 7 feet tall, and 3.5 feet wide—necessitated the use of a cue ball as the pinball. Due to its limited production run, estimates suggest that only between 139 to 500 units were made, making it a rare collector’s item.

• Manufacturer: Atari

• Release Year: 1979

• Theme: Greek mythology – Hercules

• Size:

  • 8 feet long

  • 7 feet tall

  • 3.5 feet wide

• Pinball: Uses a cue ball (larger and heavier than standard pinballs)

• Flippers & Mechanics:

  • Giant flippers

  • Powered by washing machine solenoids

• Playfield Style: Widebody with oversized components

• Artwork: Bright, circus-themed (orange and purple)

• Sound: Simple chimes – no speech or electronic sound effects

• Production Quantity: Estimated 139–500 units (very rare)

• Designed For: Arcades and public spaces (not homes)

• Estimated Current Value: $4,000 – $12,500+

• Collectibility: Highly collectible due to size, rarity, and uniqueness