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Thunderbirds
Game History
Thunderbirds is a pinball machine manufactured by Homepin, was officially released in January 2018, though it had been in development for approximately four years. The game was based on the classic 1960s British puppet science fiction TV series and was Homepin's first branded pinball table. It was designed to capture the spirit of the original show and featured authentic character voices and original music from the series.
Despite the anticipation surrounding its release, the Thunderbirds pinball machine was reportedly poorly received by the pinball community.
How to Play
Objective
The main goal of Thunderbirds pinball is to complete International Rescue missions by activating various modes and objectives based on the classic TV series. You must progress through different rescue scenarios while earning points. The ultimate objective is to successfully complete all missions and achieve the highest score possible.
Controls
- Flippers: Use the left and right flippers to hit the ball and keep it in play
- Launch Button: Press to launch the ball into play
- Start Button: Press to begin a new game
- Plunger: Use to launch the ball into play (if present on the machine)
Gameplay
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Starting the Game: Press the Start Button to begin your International Rescue missions.
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Ball Launch: Launch the ball into play using the plunger or launch button.
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Mission Selection: Complete specific shots to activate different International Rescue missions based on episodes from the TV series.
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Rescue Modes: Play through various rescue scenarios by hitting specific targets and completing objectives within each mode.
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Thunderbird Activation: Activate different Thunderbird vehicles (1, 2, 3, 4, and 5) by completing certain shot sequences.
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Multiball Modes: Activate multiball play by completing specific sequences, allowing multiple balls in play simultaneously.
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Voice and Music Integration: Experience authentic character voices and original music from the Thunderbirds series as you progress through missions.
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Scoring System: Earn points for completing missions, activating modes, and achieving special sequences throughout your game.
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Game Completion: Successfully complete all rescue missions to achieve the highest score and complete your International Rescue duties.
New to Pinball?
Playing pinball is a blend of timing, control and understanding the rules. Use the flippers carefully, watch the flashing shots and avoid panic flipping.
Learn more
Use the side buttons to control the flippers. Try to catch the ball, aim shots, build modes and keep the ball alive. Nudging can help, but too much force may tilt the machine.
- Ramps: usually safe scoring routes.
- Orbits: loops around the playfield.
- Targets: hit these to advance modes and objectives.
- Multiball: a major scoring opportunity.
