Planets, a bold 1970s widebody excursion from Williams, represents a distinctive chapter in the career of legendary designer Steve Kordek. Moving away from the crowded, frenetic playfields of the era, Kordek utilized the expansive widebody chassis to create an open, celestial arena themed around astrology and the cosmos. Artistically rendered by Louis Raynaud, the table feels like a vintage star chart brought to life, offering a sprawling landscape that demands precision over brute force. With four flippers at your disposal, the game encourages a more strategic approach to navigating the wide-open spaces of the playfield.
The mechanical heart of the machine is built around its unique interaction with the ball. Rather than relying on modern ramp-heavy geometry, Planets utilizes a series of eight hanging targets that punish erratic play while rewarding controlled, deliberate shots. The inclusion of two stop magnets adds a layer of unpredictable physics, momentarily halting the ball’s momentum to force players into quick, reactive adjustments. A solitary spinning post provides an additional layer of chaos, acting as a kinetic gatekeeper that frequently redirects the ball into the four slingshots, turning the lower playfield into a high-stakes, rebounding gauntlet.
For those looking to master this electro-mechanical classic, the key lies in managing the widebody’s inherent geometry. Because the playfield is significantly broader than standard machines of the time, the ball travels across long, lateral arcs that can easily bypass the center of the flippers. Success requires treating the hanging targets as tactical obstacles; by utilizing the upper flippers to trap and cradle, you can methodically pick off targets rather than firing wildly. It is a game of patience and geometry, serving as a reminder of a time when designers prioritized the interaction between the player and the physical space of the table over complex, software-driven modes.