! SKILLSHOT !

The Flintstones (Williams, 1994)

Released by Williams in July 1994, The Flintstones pinball machine brought the prehistoric town of Bedrock into arcades with bright colors, humor, and lively mechanical features. Designed by John Trudeau, the game was inspired by the live-action film adaptation, blending elements from the movie into a playful and accessible pinball adventure.

The playfield features a unique Smart Ramp system that directs the ball to different flippers, enhancing gameplay variety. A mechanical brontosaurus crane toy lifts and moves balls during play, adding an interactive element. Players can engage in a bowling mini-game by making skill shots to knock down pins, and the game includes multiple modes such as Fred's Choice, Joe's Diner, and Bedrock Water Buffalo's. The Dictabird toy and the spinning Rock Slicer add to the dynamic playfield, providing various objectives and challenges.

The artwork by Kevin O’Connor is lively and detailed, featuring stylized versions of Fred, Wilma, Barney, and Betty along with iconic locations like the Slate & Co. quarry and the Flintstone home. The sound package includes voice callouts from the film’s cast along with playful music that matches the game’s lighthearted tone.

With approximately 4,779 units produced, The Flintstones enjoyed solid success in both arcades and home collections. Its balanced ruleset made it accessible for beginners, while features like multiball modes and skill-based scoring provided depth for experienced players.

Today, The Flintstones is remembered as a colorful and fun example of 1990s pinball. Its charming presentation, family-friendly appeal, and clever mechanical toys continue to make it a favorite among collectors and players alike.