Flicker, released by Bally in 1974, stands as a quintessential example of Jim Patla’s design prowess during the mid-70s EM era. Draped in the glitz of show business-themed art by Dick White, this two-player machine offers a deceptive amount of depth packed into a classic layout. With its dual captive balls, a central spinning target, and a signature action ring, the playfield feels remarkably active for a machine of its vintage. It is a game that demands precision, tasking players with navigating twelve standup targets and a series of star rollovers that keep the scoring momentum shifting throughout the session.
For those looking to conquer the leaderboard, the game offers two distinct schools of thought. The high-risk, high-reward approach centers on the prominent spinner, which can be accessed from either flipper for rapid point accumulation, though this comes with a heightened risk of a drain if your aim falters. A more measured, reliable path involves targeting the captive balls and cycling the ball through the upper lanes to systematically advance your bonus. Savvy players should prioritize the A-B-C-D targets as early as possible; completing this bank is the key to unlocking double bonus scoring, which is essential for chasing high scores.
The machine’s personality is rounded out by its strategic opening: a well-placed skill shot into the top saucer immediately nets 3,000 points, providing a solid foundation for the rest of the ball. With only 1,585 units produced, Flicker remains a rare, charming piece of Bally history that rewards disciplined ball control and a calculated approach to its various scoring objectives. Whether you are grinding the spinner or carefully managing your bonus progression, it remains a testament to the tactile, rewarding nature of classic electromechanical pinball.