Solar Ride (EM), released by Gottlieb in 1977, stands as a quintessential artifact of the late electromechanical era. Designed by the legendary Ed Krynski with striking space-age aesthetics by Gordon Morison, this four-player machine captures the cosmic optimism of the 70s. The playfield is defined by a clean, balanced layout featuring three flippers and a robust five-bank drop target array that demands precision. It is a rare, low-production gem, with only 365 units ever manufactured, making it a prized target for collectors who appreciate the tactile, rhythmic clatter of mechanical scoring reels.
The gameplay centers on a high-stakes cycle of building and harvesting your bonus, which peaks at a hard-capped 20,000 points. To maximize your score, you must clear the left-hand drop targets to illuminate the top-left saucer; mastering this loop is essential, as the machine intelligently retains your bonus multiplier even after you collect the base value. The layout encourages tactical movement, particularly through the right-side gate, which kicks the ball back into the shooter lane for another crack at increasing your multiplier.
Success on Solar Ride requires a disciplined approach to the playfield geometry. Skilled players will focus on completing the upper lanes in sequence from left to right, and those looking for an early advantage should pay close attention to the initial plunge, which offers a window to secure a 2x multiplier before the ball even enters the main fray. With its blend of strategic drop-target management and the classic feel of Krynski’s design, Solar Ride remains an engaging, cerebral challenge that rewards patience and surgical accuracy.