Williams’ Black Knight 2000, released in 1989, is Steve Ritchie’s triumphant sequel to his genre-defining 1980 original — and a machine beloved for both its blistering split-level play and one of the greatest soundtracks pinball has ever produced. The returning Magna-Save, a drawbridge that lowers to reveal a skyway ramp, and a backbox full of synchronized flashers that “animate” the taunting Black Knight all make this a worthy second act to a legend.
The scoring is built on the upper playfield and escalating awards. Completing W-A-R starts a hurry-up worth up to 1.5 million on the Skyway, while completing W-I-N and shooting the drawbridge earns RANSOM letters toward the King’s Ransom feature. The game holds a genuine place in history: its ramp-loop combo — shoot the Skyway, and when the ball comes around to the upper flipper, loop it for a bonus — is widely cited as the first-ever combo shot in pinball, a concept that would reshape the entire hobby.
Smart players know the wrinkles: a 90%-power plunge feeds the WIN lanes while a full plunge feeds the flippers for an easy multiball cradle, and the Magna-Save rewards a quick, confident punch since it has a long timer. Fast, deep, and unforgettable to listen to, Black Knight 2000 is Ritchie honoring his own classic while pushing the form forward — a sequel that more than lives up to its name.