Scared Stiff, released by Bally in September 1996, stands as a hallmark in pinball history, seamlessly blending engaging gameplay with the charismatic allure of Elvira, Mistress of the Dark. As a sequel to the 1989 hit "Elvira and the Party Monsters," this machine captivated players with its unique features and humour.
Scared Stiff remains a beloved classic in the pinball community, celebrated for its engaging gameplay, distinctive features, and the captivating presence of Elvira. Its blend of humour, horror, and interactive elements continues to entertain players and collectors alike, solidifying its status as a timeless piece in the world of pinball.

Design and Features

The creative minds behind "Scared Stiff" include Dennis Nordman and Mark Weyna, with artwork by Greg Freres. The game showcases a B-movie horror theme, challenging players to navigate through the Six Tales of Terror: Eyes of the Bony Beast, Terror from the Crate, the Stiff in the Coffin, the Monster's Lab, Night of the Leapers, and Return of the Deadheads. Progressing through these tales advances the Stiff-o-Meter, adding depth to the gameplay.
A standout feature is the interactive backbox, containing a player-controlled spinning spider. This element allows players to collect unique features and initiate special modes, enhancing the interactive experience. The machine has two flippers, two ramps, and a four-ball multiball, all powered by the Williams WPC-95 system.

Cultural Impact

"Scared Stiff" is rich in playful and risqué humour, evident in its artwork and voice callouts by Cassandra Peterson as Elvira. Notably, the backglass art includes subtle nods, such as a videotape labelled "Black Friday" by "UM Productions," speculated to reference a significant layoff event at Williams. Additionally, the side art features an "RRR" rating "Rude, Raunchy, and Ribbed for her pleasure" with a claw mark, adding to its cheeky charm.
An interesting aspect of the game's development involves the "Boogiemen" figures. Initially designed to move with the slingshots, this feature was removed late in production due to durability concerns. However, the game's ROM still supports this function, and many hobbyists have reinstated the Boogiemen in their machines, celebrating the designers' original vision.

Marketing Slogans

• "Elvira has the features that turn players on."
• "So fun, It's Scary!"