Around the Playfield with Charlie Emery of Spooky Pinball

Flyer for the Charlie Emery Interview

Charlie Emery runs Spooky Pinball.

Around the Playfield with Charlie Emery

The Start Button: How did you first get into pinball?

Playing as a kid in the late 70’s and completely got hooked in the solid state era.

The Plunge: What was the first pinball machine you bought?

Firepower II…. because it was available for sale and I couldn’t wait to own a game. Still have it.

The Skill Shot: What is your best pinball achievement or favorite pinball moment?

Achievement…  us building Spooky Pinball up with faith and hard work from friends and customers. Favorite pinball moment… winning an “A Division” 2 man team competition with my 12 year old son, Bug.

Good Shots, Bad Bounces: What is your favorite and least favorite pinball machine?

Favorite game… obvious answer is Alice Cooper but you’ll have to judge for yourself if I’m biased! Least favorite… the clunkiest E.M game I ever played I had fun on, so ??? It’s pinball. You either love it or you don’t.

The Wizard Mode: What is your dream theme you’d like to see made into a pinball machine?

Godzilla… classic TOHO style!

The Tilt: What is the dumbest mistake you’ve made in pinball (mishap moving a machine, messing up trying to fix a machine, etc.)?

In 20 plus years, hard to single one out. Had a game smash me in the ear once, and of course I’ve fried chips working with the game on like a rookie (even when I wasn’t!).

The High Score: Describe the pinball hobby in one word.

HARD!

Match – Next Game: Where do you see the pinball hobby in 5-10 years?

After watching it almost die a few years ago and being a small part of the resurgence now, I hope the growth continues as the next generation comes in. It’s time to celebrate the heroes that got us here, and embrace the new talent that will lead us forward. Pinball needs new rock stars!!! I think in 5 to 10 years, you’ll see that transition.