The Black Knight: Sword of Rage (LE) Pinball Machine

Is a high-end limited edition pinball game from Stern Pinball, released in 2019. This pinball machine brings back the classic Black Knight theme with a fresh, modern twist. It’s designed to celebrate the legacy of the Black Knight series, adding exciting new features, toys, and gameplay modes. Here are the full details on the Black Knight: Sword of Rage (LE):

Key Features:

• Manufacturer: Stern Pinball

• Year Released: 2019

• Designer: Keith Elwin

• Software Developer: Lyman Sheats

• Art Package: Christopher Franchi

• Production Numbers: 500 units (Limited Edition)

• Theme: Black Knight, with a medieval fantasy setting, featuring a knight character and epic sword battles.

1. Playfield Design:

   • Sword of Rage Feature: A huge motorized sword that extends and retracts in the center of the playfield. This is the key interactive feature of the game, and players must hit it to trigger modes or progress through different stages of the game.

   • Ramp and Loop Systems: The playfield is filled with ramps, loops, and targets that create a dynamic and challenging experience. Key shots involve launching the ball through ramps, hitting targets, and interacting with the central sword mechanism.

2. Cabinet Art:

   • The Limited Edition model features stunning artwork by Christopher Franchi, with bold, vibrant designs highlighting the epic nature of the Black Knight theme. The side art, backglass, and playfield are filled with dynamic depictions of knights, warriors, and medieval fantasy scenes, bringing the game’s atmosphere to life.

3. Lighting and Sound:

   • Dynamic LED Lighting: The game uses vibrant RGB lighting that changes based on the modes and actions happening on the playfield, creating a more immersive atmosphere.

   • Soundtrack and Voiceovers: The soundtrack features medieval-themed music with intense battle sounds and moments of high drama. The voiceovers include taunts and insults from the Black Knight himself, adding to the medieval tension.

   • Sword Sounds: The game uses custom audio to highlight the sound of the sword when it swings or interacts with the ball, increasing the immersion during key moments.

4. Gameplay:

   • Sword of Rage Mode: The centerpiece of the gameplay is the “Sword of Rage” feature, where players must activate and interact with the motorized sword to progress through the game and earn big points.

   • Multiball Modes: Several multiball modes are available, such as Black Knight Multiball and Rage Multiball, which increase the intensity of the gameplay by launching multiple balls and giving players more opportunities for high scores.

   • Progressive Story: The game has several stages, including battle sequences and “duels” with the Black Knight. Players move through various scenes as they progress, facing challenges, collecting points, and eventually going head-to-head with the Black Knight in a final battle.

   • Combo and Ramp Shots: Scoring in Black Knight: Sword of Rage revolves around hitting various ramps, loops, and targets to fill up meters or trigger modes. Skillfully executing combos will also result in bonus multipliers.

5. Limited Edition (LE) Features:

   • Numbered Plaque: Each LE model comes with a unique numbered plaque, making it more collectible.

   • Shaker Motor: The LE model includes a shaker motor that adds additional tactile feedback, making the game feel more immersive, especially during intense moments like multiballs and sword interactions.

   • Upgraded Sound System: The LE version comes with a more powerful audio system, enhancing the depth and clarity of the sound effects and music.

6. Pinball Modes & Objectives:

   • Sword of Rage Mode: The main mode, where players must engage with the motorized sword feature and build their Rage Meter to trigger additional scoring opportunities.

   • Black Knight Multiball: A special multiball mode where players work to collect all the balls in play for big points.

   • Rage Multiball: Triggered by filling up the Rage Meter, this mode offers additional opportunities for big scores and chaotic gameplay.

7. Collectibles and Accessories (LE Exclusive):

   • Sword Replica: Some LE editions included a replica of the iconic sword featured in the game.

   • High-Quality Art and Collectibles: Exclusive art prints, special cards, and other memorabilia related to the Black Knight theme were also part of the limited edition package.