Send in the clown — this is Clown from the Spanish manufacturer Inder, a solid-state four-player wrapped in a cheerful circus-and-carnival theme, one of the European makers whose machines form a fascinating chapter of pinball’s global story. With a DMD display — a comparatively modern touch — it’s an intriguing continental machine with a well-appointed playfield.
The layout is a solid, engaging spread: two flippers, two pop bumpers, six standup targets, a three-bank of drop targets, a kick-out hole, a horseshoe lane, a left crossover return lane, and right dual inlanes. That horseshoe lane offers a satisfying flowing shot to work, while the three-bank of drops gives a clear objective to clear and the six standups provide plenty of additional targets. The left crossover return lane and right dual inlanes help keep the ball in play and feed controlled shots, rewarding an accurate player. It’s a busy, target-rich design that keeps the action moving, all in service of the festive clown theme.
This Inder Clown is a fine example of the broader, international sweep of pinball history beyond the familiar American names — and it’s worth noting that Playmatic built a different machine also titled Clown, so collectors should mind which one they’re chasing. Inder built games with real character, and this carnival-themed title carries the European flipper tradition into the DMD era with its own distinctive flavor. For the collector who appreciates the global corners of the hobby, it’s a worthy find. Ride that horseshoe, clear the drop bank, and work the six standups. The far corners of pinball history hold plenty of well-built surprises, and this Spanish carnival machine is one of them. Send in the clown and drop a coin.