Scared Stiff Pinball Machine (1996 ) Bally for Sale

Campy horror, one-liners, and a spinning spider in the backbox — the Scared Stiff Pinball Machine has been making players laugh (and jump) since 1996, and it’s held onto a cult following ever since.

The Story Behind This Scared Stiff Pinball Machine

Bally released Scared Stiff in September 1996 as the second machine in the Elvira series, following 1989’s Elvira and the Party Monsters. Designer Dennis Nordman built the layout, Greg Freres handled the artwork, and Cassandra Peterson — the actress behind Elvira, Mistress of the Dark — recorded original voice callouts in character. Around 4,000 units were produced, which keeps it collectible without making it impossible to track down today.

Six Tales of Terror

The game’s structure is built around six horror-themed challenges players work through on their way to the final jackpot:

1. Return of the Deadheads
2. Eyes of the Bony Beast
3. Terror from the Crate
4. The Stiff in the Coffin
5. Night of the Leapers
6. The Monster’s Lab

Clearing tales fills the Stiff-O-Meter, a gauge tracking your progress toward the big score.

Standout Toys and Modes

• A spinning spider in the backbox that randomly selects player awards
• Coffin multiball, locking balls for a chaotic scoring rush
• The Bony Beast ramp, triggering one of the game’s signature modes
• Four-player scoring with two ramps and two flippers

Buying a Scared Stiff Pinball Machine in Australia

Machines from the 1990s need proper checking before they go home with anyone. Ours are tested for playfield condition, scoring accuracy, and mechanical reliability before listing, and you’re welcome to inspect the unit yourself at our Darwin showroom. If you’re elsewhere in Australia, we handle delivery and can talk you through setup once it arrives.

Specifications

This Scared Stiff Pinball Machine listing reflects a fully tested, playable unit rather than a display-only piece.

FAQs

Is this an original Scared Stiff Pinball Machine?

Yes, it’s an original 1996 Bally unit. Some listings may include restoration work such as new rubbers, bulbs, or a refreshed playfield — this is noted per listing.

How many players can use it at once?

Up to four players can take turns on a single game.

Can I see it working before I buy?

Yes, visit our Darwin showroom to play it in person, or ask for a video walkthrough if you’re buying remotely.

Do you ship outside the Northern Territory?

Yes, we deliver Australia-wide and help arrange setup on arrival.

Claim This Cult Classic

Clean, working units of the Scared Stiff Pinball Machine don’t come up for sale often. Get in touch to check current availability.

📞 +61 468 264 527

✉️ sales@aussiearcadegames.com

📍 29 Smith St, Darwin City NT 0800, Australia