Spirit, a 1982 widebody release from Gottlieb, stands as one of the most atmospheric entries in the golden age of solid-state pinball. Designed by John Trudeau with haunting, ethereal artwork by Terry Doerzaph, this supernatural-themed machine utilizes its expansive footprint to accommodate a unique six-flipper layout. The sheer size of the playfield creates a distinct, deliberate flow, allowing players to utilize the extra flippers near the outlanes to safely navigate what would normally be high-risk territory.
The mechanical heart of the game revolves around its multi-ball integration and the pursuit of the “SPIRIT” objective. Players must navigate the two ramps and four kick-out holes to build towards a 3-ball frenzy, where the scoring potential scales aggressively with each ball active on the playfield. Strategic play favors targeting the drop-bank banks to spell out the title, which rewards the player with a coveted Special. Opening the “stargate” via the horseshoe or outlane targets is essential for unlocking the multiball, making the game a test of precision shooting under the pressure of its eerie, otherworldly aesthetic.
With only 1,230 units ever produced, Spirit remains a rare, cult-favorite artifact of the early 80s. Its unconventional design—specifically the way it encourages ball control through those unconventional lower flippers—sets it apart from the more linear games of its era. Whether you are hunting for high scores or simply soaking in the supernatural vibes, this widebody classic demands a patient, calculated approach to master its complex geometry.