Who Dunnit Flipper

The year 1995 marked a period of innovation and thematic exploration in the pinball industry. Bally Manufacturing Co., a prominent name in arcade entertainment, released "WHO dunnit," a pinball machine that plunged players into a captivating murder mystery. This solid-state electronic (SS) machine, designated with the model number 50044, emerged from the Williams WPC Security (WPC-S) generation, indicating its robust technological foundation. Production figures confirm 2,416 units were manufactured, making it a moderately produced title of its era. The conceptualization and design of "WHO dunnit" involved a skilled team. Dwight Sullivan is credited with the initial concept and software development, shaping the game's intricate narrative structure. Barry Oursler joined Sullivan in the design of the playfield layout, aiming for a balance of shots and flow that would keep players engaged in the unfolding mystery. The artistic direction was in the capable hands of Linda Deal and Paul Barker, who crafted a visual identity that seamlessly blended the casino and detective genres. Paul Heitsch contributed significantly to the game's audio landscape, composing the music and designing sound effects that immersed players in the thematic atmosphere. The vocal performances, crucial to a narrative-driven game, were provided by a talented roster including Ed Boon, Paul Heitsch, Tim Kitzrow, and Vince Pontarelli, with Tim Kitzrow lending his voice to Detective Nick Spade. Even the mechanical intricacies were meticulously handled by Zofia Bil, ensuring the physical elements performed as intended. One intriguing detail is the "Midnight Madness" mode, a special game state that activates around midnight, and the machine's attract mode chiming like a grandfather clock on the hour, displaying the "Midnight Madness" champion's score.