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NBA Fastbreak (Bally, 1997)

Released by Bally in 1997, NBA Fastbreak brings the energy and excitement of professional basketball to the pinball world. Designed by George Gomez, the machine was developed under license from the NBA and features official team logos, real basketball rules, and a unique scoring system that mirrors actual gameplay rather than traditional pinball points. It stands out as one of the most sports-authentic pinball machines ever produced.

The playfield is centered around two flippers and includes two main ramps, a fast break loop, a ball lock mechanism, a captive ball feature, and a large basket assembly at the back of the playfield with a motorized hoop that registers slam dunks. Rather than traditional pinball objectives like bonus multipliers or end-of-ball bonuses, NBA Fastbreak challenges players to complete basketball-specific tasks. These include making 2-point and 3-point shots, assists, fast breaks, and alley-oops—each corresponding to particular shots on the playfield. As players complete objectives, they progress through a simulated basketball game, ultimately reaching the Trophy Multiball mode, where the goal is to outscore a virtual opponent in a timed, high-pressure match that mimics a championship showdown.

Artwork by Kevin O’Connor features courtside details, player silhouettes, and official NBA branding, including all 29 team logos present at the time of release. The backglass showcases a dynamic in-game moment with the shot clock counting down, and the cabinet art reinforces the game's professional sports theme. Callouts include commentary-style voiceovers, buzzer sounds, and a roaring crowd, further immersing players in the atmosphere of a live basketball game.

Approximately 4,414 units of NBA Fastbreak were produced. While it didn’t reach blockbuster status commercially, the game has earned lasting appreciation for its thematic integrity and unique ruleset. Its head-to-head linking capability—allowing two machines to be connected for simultaneous competitive play—was an innovative feature rarely seen in pinball.

Today, NBA Fastbreak is remembered as a fun, accessible game that successfully translates the structure of basketball into the language of pinball. It remains a favorite among sports fans and collectors who appreciate its one-of-a-kind approach to gameplay.