Released in November 2024 by Spooky Pinball, Evil Dead pinball plunges players into the horrifying and humorous universe of the Evil Dead film franchise. This wide-body machine, limited to 888 units, is the brainchild of a dedicated team. The design is credited to Corwin "Bug" Emery and Spooky Luke, who collaborated to translate the essence of the movies into a playable experience. Christopher Franchi’s artwork captures the campy horror aesthetic, covering the cabinet and playfield with vivid imagery inspired by the films. Matt “Count D” Montgomery composed the game's music, setting the tone for frantic gameplay. Software development was handled by Ben Heck, ensuring smooth and engaging rulesets. A key element enhancing the game's thematic immersion is the inclusion of custom callouts by Bruce Campbell, the actor synonymous with the Evil Dead series’ protagonist, Ash Williams. This wide-body pinball machine entered production intending to deliver a unique experience for players seeking thrills and dark humor.

Signature Features and Design

Evil Dead pinball distinguishes itself through several standout features. The wide-body cabinet immediately sets it apart, allowing for an expansive playfield and more complex shot layouts. Integrating toys and mechanisms that resonate with the source material is central to its design. These elements are not merely decorative; they are designed to be integral to gameplay, offering interactive and thematic experiences. Visually, the machine makes a strong impression. The artwork is described as exceptional, creating a visually rich and engaging environment. The lighting system works in tandem with the art to emphasize key moments and guide player attention across the playfield. The inclusion of Bruce Campbell’s voice work is a significant feature, lending authenticity and humor to the game's callouts, directly connecting players to the tone of the Evil Dead films.

Reception and Legacy

Initial reception to Evil Dead pinball has been overwhelmingly positive within the pinball community. Players and reviewers consistently praise the machine's robust build quality, citing Spooky Pinball’s commitment to quality and testing. Gameplay is consistently described as engaging and enjoyable, with modes that are well-designed and varied. The integration of toys and mechanisms is viewed favorably, appreciated for being innovative and thematic rather than superficial. The visual and auditory aspects of the game, including the artwork, lighting, and Bruce Campbell’s callouts, are frequently lauded as exceptional, elevating the overall presentation.

Minor criticisms have been few. Some early feedback mentioned minor technical issues such as ball traps, but these were acknowledged as not being persistent and resolvable through ball searches. Very minor code glitches were also noted, typical of new releases, and are being addressed. A slight "floaty" feeling to the ball movement was mentioned, but this was not widely considered a significant detractor. Players have reported extensive playtime with minimal issues, indicating reliable performance. The machine's wide body design is appreciated for enabling fast gameplay while still requiring strategic shot planning. Overall, Evil Dead pinball has been received as a strong addition to modern pinball, with its blend of engaging gameplay, thematic integration, and high production values positioning it as a memorable title.