Showtime, released by Chicago Coin in 1973, serves as a quintessential example of the era’s charm, trading heavy licensed themes for a whimsical, aquatic-inspired world of pure joy. Designed by the duo of Albin Peters and Wendell McAdams with the unmistakable, high-energy illustrative style of Christian Marche, the cabinet feels like a vibrant trip to a mid-century carnival. The mechanical layout is refreshingly focused, utilizing a pair of flippers and a tight arrangement of two pop bumpers and two slingshots to keep the ball moving across the playfield’s seven rollover buttons.
The machine’s primary challenge lies in the strategic management of your scoring potential, particularly as you approach the final ball. While the game features three captive balls that demand precision shots to build momentum, the real secret to high-score dominance involves manipulating the bonus multiplier. By aggressively hunting for extra ball opportunities, players can extend their gameplay beyond the standard count; since the bonus multiplier doubles on the final ball and persists through any subsequent extra balls, chaining these together is the definitive path to climbing the leaderboard.
This is a four-player EM classic that prioritizes rhythm and accuracy over complex modern toys. It captures the essence of 1970s arcade design—simple to pick up, but deceptive in its depth. For those who appreciate the tactile satisfaction of spinning reels and the frantic, bell-ringing action of a well-maintained Chicago Coin table, Showtime remains a delightful, lighthearted gem that rewards the patient, tactical player.