Vagabond, released by Williams in 1962, stands as a quintessential piece of Steve Kordek’s design legacy. As a classic EM (electromechanical) machine, it captures the spirit of American history through a mid-century lens, relying on crisp reel-based scoring rather than digital flair. With only 600 units ever produced, this rare gem centers its gameplay on the “Add-a-ball” mechanic, a feature that prioritizes sustained play and precision over the high-score chasing typical of replay-style machines.
The playfield is a dense network of vintage action, featuring five pop bumpers that demand constant attention and a clever arrangement of eleven rollover buttons that test a player’s ability to navigate the board. Kordek’s layout utilizes two kick-out holes and a strategic drop target to keep the ball in motion, forcing players to balance aggressive shots with controlled, tactical nudging. Because this is an add-a-ball title, the primary goal is to extend your session by hitting the necessary targets to earn extra balls, turning every game into a marathon of endurance.
For those lucky enough to encounter this piece of history, the key to success lies in mastering the rollover patterns to light the bonus features. Rather than blindly hammering the slingshots, successful players focus on clearing the standup targets to open up the kick-out holes, which act as the lifeblood of your ball count. It is a stripped-back, elegant experience that rewards consistency, proving that even decades later, Kordek’s minimalist approach to design remains as challenging and addictive as ever.