Black Hole

Black Hole is a classic pinball machine designed and released by Gottlieb in 1981. Renowned for its innovative dual-level playfield, it stands as a distinctive and challenging game in the realm of pinball. With a space-themed backdrop, Black Hole captivates players with its unique features and engaging gameplay.

Developed during the heyday of arcade gaming, Black Hole emerged as a product of Gottlieb, a prominent pinball machine manufacturer. Designed by John Buras and conceptually innovative, Black Hole marked a departure from traditional single-level playfields. Its dual-level design, featuring a lower and an upper playfield connected by a rotating disc, set it apart from other pinball machines of its time. This breakthrough design aimed to heighten the player experience, providing a dynamic and challenging gaming environment.

Upon its release, Black Hole garnered acclaim for its inventive design and gameplay mechanics. Players were drawn to the challenging nature of the dual-level playfield, and the space-themed aesthetics added an extra layer of allure. While not as commercially successful as some other titles of its era, Black Hole has earned a lasting reputation among pinball enthusiasts for its uniqueness and gameplay.

Black Hole exists in its original form without any official variations. However, it has inspired a fan base that appreciates its distinctive features. As part of the wider pinball culture, Black Hole may be discussed in relation to other Gottlieb titles and games with similar dual-level playfield mechanics.

Black Hole is considered a moderately rare pinball machine today. With an estimated production run of around 8,000 units, finding a well-preserved, fully functional Black Hole can be a challenge. Due to its uniqueness and demand among collectors, the market value for Black Hole machines varies but can reach substantial amounts, especially for models in excellent condition.

Black Hole operates on the Gottlieb System 80 platform. The pinball machine’s hardware includes a CPU board, power supply, sound board, and displays. For those looking to repair or maintain Black Hole, it’s essential to consider the availability of replacement parts. Common components for repair or restoration may include bumper assemblies, flippers, targets, and the distinctive rotating disc mechanism connecting the two playfields. Enthusiast communities and specialty suppliers often serve as valuable resources for obtaining parts and technical support, ensuring the longevity of this iconic pinball machine.