The magic of the carnival, the thrill of the storm—these are the feelings that legendary designers Lawlor and Lawlor (no relation!) captured in two of the most beloved pinball machines of the late 80s: Cyclone and Whirlwind. If you crave fast-paced, thematic fun, these games are unforgettable classics.
Cyclone Pinball Machine: Relive the Carnival Thrills
“Step right up! Hit the target! Win a free game!” The call of the barker is etched into the memory of every pinball fan who has played Cyclone. This 1988 Williams system 11 machine takes you on a tour of a carnival, with the goal of riding three amazing attractions: the Ferris Wheel, the Hurricane, and the main event, the Cyclone.
Iconic Sound Bites: The constant carnival chatter and catchy “Cyclone” jingle create an incredibly immersive and energetic atmosphere.
Ramp & Loop Shots: The centerpiece is the ramped “Cyclone” shot, which is incredibly satisfying to hit.
Nostalgia Factor: For anyone who loves the sights and sounds of a state fair, this machine is pure, unadulterated nostalgia.
Looking for a non-stop party machine? Check if we have a Cyclone pinball machine for sale in our current inventory!
Whirlwind Pinball Machine: Unleash the Storm
The spiritual successor to Cyclone, Whirlwind (1990), turns the energy up to eleven—literally. This game introduces a revolutionary (pun intended) playfield feature: a working fan that blows the ball around a spinning disc! The goal is to open the doors to the building and trigger a multi-ball “storm.”
The Spinning Disc Fan: This is the star of the show. It’s a mesmerizing mechanical feature that directly impacts the ball’s path, adding a layer of unpredictable excitement.
Multi-Ball Mayhem: Lock three balls and open the “Tornado Alley” door for a chaotic and thrilling four-ball multi-ball.
Atmospheric Brilliance: The sound of howling wind, thunder, and the flashing “storm warning” lights make you feel like you’re in the eye of the storm.
Both Cyclone and Whirlwind represent a golden era of pinball design where theme and gameplay fused perfectly. They are fantastic, approachable games that are always a blast to play.
FAQ: Cyclone & Whirlwind Pinball Machines
Q: Which is more valuable, Cyclone or Whirlwind?
A: Both are highly sought-after. Whirlwind often commands a slightly higher price due to its more complex mechanics (the fan), but both are excellent investments whose values remain strong.
Q: Is the fan in Whirlwind reliable?
A: Like any 30+ year old mechanical part, it can require maintenance. However, the design is robust, and any issues are typically easily resolved by a qualified technician, ensuring your storm keeps on blowing.
Q: Are these good for family game rooms?
A: Yes! Their clear objectives, exciting toys (Ferris Wheel, Fan), and energetic sounds are a huge hit with players of all ages.