Air Aces

Air Aces (Bally 1975) takes players on a thrilling journey into the world of aerial combat, focusing on the dogfights of World War II fighter pilots.

The playfield is designed to resemble the view from a cockpit, with a sky-blue background and cloud patterns. Targets are shaped like enemy planes, while the bumpers are cleverly disguised as anti-aircraft flak bursts. The color scheme is predominantly blue and silver, with splashes of red for enemy targets.

A unique feature of Air Aces is its "Squadron Formation" scoring system. The backbox displays a formation of light-up planes. Players must hit specific targets to "shoot down" these planes in sequence, with each successful hit increasing the point value for the next.

The backglass artwork showcases a dramatic aerial battle scene, featuring Allied fighters engaged in combat with Axis planes. The art style captures the intense action of air combat, with planes swooping and diving amidst explosions and tracer fire.

Air Aces introduces an innovative "Dive Bomb" mechanism. A steep ramp on the upper playfield allows players to launch the ball high into the air. If timed correctly, this "dive" can hit a special target that triggers a multi-ball mode, simulating a coordinated attack run.

Sound-wise, the game utilizes more advanced audio for its time. It features basic electronic sounds mimicking machine gun fire, engine roars, and explosion effects, adding to the immersive combat experience.

The layout of Air Aces is designed to encourage precision shooting. Various "mission" targets are placed strategically around the playfield, each representing different objectives like bombing runs or reconnaissance missions.

A standout aspect is the "Ace Pilot" progression system. As players accumulate points, they advance through pilot ranks displayed on the backbox, from Rookie to Ace. Each rank-up provides bonuses and unlocks new game features.

This Bally creation stands out for its detailed theme implementation and innovative features that bring WWII air combat to life. Air Aces offers players a chance to experience the excitement of being a fighter pilot, making it a beloved machine among enthusiasts of both pinball and aviation history.