Conjure the dark arts — this is Black Magic from the Spanish manufacturer Petaco, a solid-state single-player wrapped in an occult, black-magic theme, one of the European makers whose machines form a fascinating chapter of pinball’s global story. With an alphanumeric display, it’s an intriguing continental machine with a genuinely well-appointed playfield and a distinctly European flavor.
The layout is a busy, engaging spread: two flippers, two pop bumpers, a pair of slingshots, two three-bank drop-target arrays, four standup targets, two messenger balls, and a spinning target. Those dual three-banks of drops give a sharp-shooting player a satisfying set of objectives to clear, while the spinning target offers high-value shots, the four standups provide additional targets, and the two messenger balls add a bit of mechanical interest. It’s a varied, target-rich design that rewards accurate shooting and keeping the ball moving, all in service of its mysterious occult theme and the air of dark enchantment it evokes.
This Petaco Black Magic is a fine example of the broader, international sweep of pinball history beyond the familiar American names — and it’s worth noting that a closely related machine, Black Magic 4, was produced by Recel with the same playfield, so collectors should mind which version they’re chasing. Petaco built games with real character, and this occult-themed title carries the European flipper tradition with its own distinctive flavor. For the collector who appreciates the global corners of the hobby, it’s a worthy find. Clear those dual drop banks, rip the spinner, and conjure a high score. The far corners of pinball history hold plenty of intriguing surprises, and this Spanish occult machine is one of them. Cast your spell and drop a coin.