Vector's journey began in an era where pinball manufacturers were actively seeking to innovate and compete in a rapidly evolving entertainment landscape. Bally, a major player in the industry, sought new approaches to game design. The creation of Vector was part of an experiment within Bally to foster collaborative design. Designer Greg Kmiec spearheaded this project, working alongside artist Greg Freres and software developer Rehman Merchant, among others, in a team-based approach intended to inject diverse creative input into the game's DNA. This initiative, as described by both Kmiec and Freres, aimed to move beyond traditional design processes and integrate ideas from various departments, including sound, mechanical, and electrical engineering, from the outset.

Released on February 2nd, 1982, Vector carried the model number 1247, a detail noted in Bally's documentation, distinguishing it from some of their other electronic pinball offerings. The artwork and theme, masterfully crafted by Greg Freres, immersed players in a futuristic, sci-fi world, a popular genre that resonated with audiences of the time. The production run for Vector reached 3,500 units.

Interestingly, Vector's production may have intertwined with Bally's previous title, Elektra. There is evidence suggesting that leftover Elektra cabinets were repurposed for Vector, with Elektra artwork being overpainted with Vector designs. This observation, supported by both Vector’s designer Greg Kmiec and Elektra’s designer Claude Fernandez, hints at production efficiencies or shifts in Bally's release schedule as they navigated the market.

Signature Features and Design

Vector immediately distinguishes itself through several standout features. Visually, the "infinity lighting" backglass creates a sense of depth, drawing players into the game's Vectordome field. This effect, promoted in Bally’s marketing materials, aimed to enhance the game's graphic package and overall visual appeal.

Beyond aesthetics, Vector incorporates a split-level playfield, a relatively complex design for its time, offering varied play areas and shot opportunities. This multi-level layout is further enhanced by the inclusion of four ramps, a significant number for a pinball machine of this era. These ramps are integral to the gameplay, not just as scoring devices but also as pathways to different areas of the playfield.

A unique feature, the "Flip-O-Meter," is positioned centrally on the playfield. This digital display measures the speed of the ball as it travels around the upper "Vectorscan" ramp and loop. Achieving high speeds on this feature is not merely for show; it directly impacts scoring and can award special bonuses, adding a competitive element as players strive to beat the fastest recorded flip. Complementing the visual and mechanical features, Vector included custom speech, an advanced audio element for its time, enhancing the immersive experience and providing auditory feedback during gameplay.

Playfield and Mechanics

The Vector playfield is densely packed with features, reflecting the team-based design approach that aimed to incorporate numerous gameplay elements. It includes a single pop bumper, two slingshots, and five kick-out holes, alongside nine drop targets arranged in three 3-bank formations. Notably, "defender" drop targets are strategically placed to guard ramp entrances. This placement requires players to skillfully knock down these targets to open up ramp shots, adding a layer of strategic target shooting to the gameplay.

The playfield art, consistent with Greg Freres' style, reinforces the sci-fi theme with vibrant colors and futuristic motifs. The artwork integrates seamlessly with the lighting scheme, particularly the infinity lights in the backglass and the strategically placed playfield lights, creating a visually engaging environment. The overall aesthetic is designed to draw players into the game's vector-based world.

The flow of gameplay is dictated by the split-level design and the placement of features. Players must navigate the ball between the upper and lower playfields using the four flippers, utilizing ramps to access higher scoring areas and to trigger specific game modes. The design philosophy appears to favor a feature-rich experience, offering players a variety of shots and objectives within a relatively compact space.

Gameplay Dynamics

Vector’s gameplay is characterized by its multiball modes, offering both 2-ball and 3-ball multiball. Activating multiball is a key objective, increasing scoring potential and adding to the excitement. Scoring is achieved through a variety of actions, including hitting drop targets, completing ramp shots, and maximizing the "Flip-O-Meter" speed. The scoring system rewards skillful play, particularly accurate shot placement and timing.

Unique to Vector is the "Flip-O-Meter" challenge. By sending the ball through the Vectorscan loop at high speed, players not only earn points but also compete against a record for the fastest flip. Beating this record results in special awards, adding a layer of replayability as players try to master the timing and flipper control required to achieve top speeds.

Gameplay highlights often revolve around strategic use of the defender drop targets. Successfully clearing these targets at opportune moments is crucial for accessing ramps and advancing in the game. Players must develop strategies that combine accurate flipper skills with an understanding of target priority to maximize their scores and game progression. The game demands precision and thoughtful shot selection, rewarding players who can effectively manage the crowded playfield and utilize its varied features.

Reception and Legacy

Reception to Vector within the pinball community has been varied. Many appreciate its aesthetic appeal, highlighting the striking artwork and the innovative infinity lighting as significant positives. The game's ambitious gameplay mechanics, including the multiple flippers, ramps, and drop targets, are also cited as strengths, offering a complex and engaging experience for skilled players. The audio, especially the speech callouts, was considered advanced for its time and contributed positively to the overall immersive quality.

However, criticisms have been voiced regarding the playfield's perceived crampedness. The density of features, while offering variety, can lead to a sense of clutter and occasionally disrupt smooth ball flow. Some players find that this crowded design, coupled with a steep learning curve and complex ruleset, can be initially off-putting. Concerns about inconsistent playability also emerge, with some feedback suggesting that Vector's performance is highly dependent on proper maintenance and tuning, meaning a poorly maintained machine can detract significantly from the intended gameplay experience. The multiball, while a central feature, has been described by some as underwhelming or anticlimactic.

Despite mixed feedback, Vector holds a unique place in pinball history. As a product of Bally's team-design experiment, it represents an interesting approach to pinball development, even though this particular design methodology was not continued. Vector stands as a visually distinct and mechanically complex machine from the early 1980s, embodying the era's drive for innovation in solid-state pinball. While it may not be universally lauded, Vector remains a noteworthy title for its ambitious design and distinctive features, appealing to collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate its unique character and the experimental spirit of its creation.