Super Star, released by Chicago Coin in 1972, serves as a nostalgic, electromechanical time capsule capturing the spirit of the Olympic Games. Designed by the collaborative trio of Wendell McAdams, Jerry Koci, and Albin Peters, this four-player machine features the unmistakable, high-energy aesthetic of artist Christian Marche. It is a quintessential EM experience that relies on classic physics and rapid-fire target interaction to simulate the intensity of athletic competition, stripping away the digital clutter of modern machines in favor of pure, mechanical feedback.
The playfield is anchored by a pair of snappy flippers and a trio of pop bumpers that keep the game moving with frantic, unpredictable trajectories. Chicago Coin opted for a layout that emphasizes precision over complexity, utilizing two standup targets and a pair of spinning targets to rack up points. A standout feature of the design is the action ring, which adds a distinct layer of challenge to ball control, while the inclusion of a right outlane ball return gate offers a much-needed lifeline for players who find themselves flirting with a drain.
For those looking to master the table, the key lies in managing the spinning targets to capitalize on the scoring potential inherent in the game’s geometry. Because it lacks the deep rule sets of modern software-driven tables, success on Super Star is entirely dependent on your ability to read the ball’s movement through the slingshots and pop bumpers. It is a rugged, straightforward machine that rewards steady rhythm and, much like the Olympic events it celebrates, it demands peak performance when the pressure of the four-player rotation is on.