Special Force, released by Bally in 1986, stands as a gritty, tactical entry in the era of solid-state machines. Designed by the legendary Dennis Nordman—who would later craft some of the most iconic layouts in the industry—this military-themed table leans into a high-stakes, battlefield aesthetic. With its alphanumeric display and a layout defined by strategically placed drop targets, the game demands precision rather than just raw power. The playfield is anchored by three pop bumpers and a mix of solo and bank drop targets, creating a shooting gallery atmosphere that captures the intensity of a covert tactical mission.
The gameplay is defined by its focus on objective-based progression, culminating in a three-ball multiball that rewards the disciplined player. A standout mechanical quirk involves the lower buttons on the cabinet, which act as a manual trigger to launch “rockets” at the lower drop targets, adding a tactile, interactive layer to your assault on the playfield. To maximize your scoring potential, you must navigate the ball behind the “Collect Bonus” drop target bank to secure your locks. Once the multiball is engaged, the flow shifts to the side targets and the left ramp, where hitting your marks is essential to racking up a massive jackpot.
Visually, the game is a time capsule of 80s arcade design, featuring artwork by Tony Ramunni that perfectly complements the “Special Force” motif. While it lacks the complex toys of later decades, the machine’s reliance on tight shots and manual target manipulation makes it a satisfying challenge for those who appreciate the fundamentals of classic Bally design. It is a lean, mean, 2,750-unit production run that serves as a fascinating look at how Nordman began experimenting with player-controlled mechanics long before they became industry standards.