3 Pinball Questions to Roger Sharpe - A must to be read

What makes a pinball machine a masterpiece?

This is a question that I could probably expound upon for hours but I will try to be somewhat succinct. Truly the answer might best be compared to what makes a work of art a masterpiece or even a film or book...anything creative. If beauty is, indeed, in the eye of the beholder so, too, is this the case with pinball where skilled designers are able to construct an elaborate, interactive fantasy world under glass. What is the story that they are weaving for us and how it is conveyed. The intricacy of the geometry, the rhythm and flow of the silver ball as it traverses the playing surface. The elegance of how this takes shape adds to the inherent beauty of the exceptional pinball machine. But there is more. What are the game rules and objectives---do they hold together for the average as well as the skilled player; is there depth and a richness to what needs to be achieved and how attainable and understandable are the best rewards. What is the theme, the supportive artwork that catches and holds our eye. And last but not least---what are the sound effects, music and speech that will immerse us in a total entertainment experience. When all these elements come together as one the result is magic and a pinball machine masterpiece that endures the test of time and invites us back over and over again.

Do I have a personal philosophy in designing pinball machines?

When I was designing games, I very much had a philosophy which, interestingly, combined the ingredients that I have touched upon in the answer above. I always wanted to incorporate a storyline; hopefully one that had multiple layers which were brought to life via the layout and features on the playfield. I valiantly tried to imbue unique characteristics in the mechanical components either through supportive sound effects (the spinner on Sharpshooter wasn't just a spinner, it was the galloping hooves of a horse...and the kick-out hole on Cyclopes was the lair where the creature was unleashed, his heart beating.....). I also approached the design process with the understanding that there needed to be balance and fluidity of the ball action and, whenever possible, how can I assist the average player to become more accomplished while also maintaining the integrity of game play for the skilled player.

What was my best pinball moment in my life?

Again a question with the possibility of numerous answers based upon my own life experiences. The best moment might have been the first time I ever played a pinball machine as a young child and the mesmerizing hold it had on my attention and imagination. Or the first time I actually 'mastered' a pinball machine by achieving a score that I never thought was possible as I honed my skills. Maybe it was the unique opportunity that I had in meeting the numerous luminaries of the industry as I began my research for my book on pinball machines. For many, I am certain, as well as for myself, was the singular moment of testifying to help legalize pinball machines in New York City and the remarkable good fortune to demonstrate why pinball is a game of skill and not chance. Or, my best moment might well have been when I was finally able to be employed full time within the industry at Williams Bally/Midway or maybe, ultimately, to witness the love affair and earnest passion that my sons have for pinball. It is a legacy that I treasure.

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