This 1997 release from Bally Manufacturing, designed by John Popadiuk, represents a significant entry in the history of solid-state pinball. Featuring a distinct steampunk aesthetic and intricate gameplay centered around the fictional “Cirqus Voltaire” and its cast of bizarre characters, the game offers players a multi-layered experience with numerous objectives and challenges. Its complex ruleset includes modes like Ringmaster, Strongman, and Knife Thrower, each presenting unique scoring opportunities.
Considered one of the most sought-after and highly-rated machines of its era, its innovative design and gameplay have earned it a devoted following. It’s praised for its deep ruleset, challenging difficulty, and immersive theme, contributing to its enduring popularity among collectors and enthusiasts. The game’s release coincided with a resurgence of interest in pinball, helping solidify its place as a modern classic.
