Star Action, released by Williams in 1974, stands as a quintessential example of Steve Kordek’s mastery of the electromechanical era. With its vibrant, show-business-inspired aesthetic brought to life by Christian Marche, this single-player machine leans into the classic “add-a-ball” specialty that made Williams games of the decade so addictive. It is a straightforward, fast-paced affair that eschews complex modern rulesets in favor of pure, rhythmic target shooting, relying on a clean layout of three pop bumpers, two slingshots, and a four-bank of drop targets to keep the player engaged.
The gameplay loop is deceptively simple but rewards precision. While you can certainly chase high scores by relentlessly hammering the orbits, the real path to dominance lies in tactical target management. You will need to clear the four drop targets twice to secure an extra ball—a vital objective if you want to extend your session. If you find the spinning post too elusive, focus your attention on the top rollover lanes; clearing these will spot the turntable for you, bypassing the need for a risky direct shot and helping you maintain your momentum.
With only 1,155 units produced, Star Action is a rare piece of arcade history that captures the “more-is-better” philosophy of 70s pinball. It is a machine that demands consistency and rewards the disciplined player who knows when to aim for the bank and when to trust the orbits. For those who appreciate the tactile satisfaction of reel-based scoring and the high-stakes tension of an add-a-ball challenge, this Kordek design remains a polished, high-energy slice of retro entertainment.