Introduction

Released in 1982 by Williams Electronics, Bubbles is a unique and quirky arcade game where players take control of a soap bubble inside a kitchen sink. The goal? Clean up debris, avoid dangerous insects and utensils, and grow large enough to enter the drain. With its unusual premise and slick cabinet design, Bubbles stood out in a crowded arcade market.

Development and History

• Developer: Williams Electronics
• Publisher: Williams Electronics
• Release Date: 1982

Bubbles was designed by John Kotlarik and programmed by Python Anghelo, both known for their unconventional creative flair. The game was one of the few to feature a joystick-free control scheme, using an optical touch-sensitive button for directional input. Williams wanted to offer something different from the usual space shooters, and Bubbles delivered a lighthearted, creative concept with arcade polish.

Gameplay and Mechanics

Core Gameplay

• Players control a blue soap bubble floating in a kitchen sink.
• The objective is to clean dirt, ants, crumbs, and grease to grow in size.
• Once large enough, the bubble can safely enter the drain to complete the level.

Hazards and Enemies

• Roaches: Will pop the bubble on contact.
• Sponges and Razor Blades: Must be avoided at all costs.
• Scrubbing Brush: Occasionally enters the sink to push the bubble around.

Power-Ups and Strategy

• Maids and Brushes: Touching a maid while at full size gives the bubble a face and the ability to defeat enemies.
• Drain Timing: The drain opens only when the bubble is large enough; timing movement is key.
• No Fire Button: Movement alone determines survival, rewarding precise control.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

• Cult Status: Never a mainstream hit, but appreciated for its originality and charm.
• Cabinet Design: Some units came with a molded 3D bubble joystick and colorful side art, making it visually memorable.
• Legacy Influence: Inspired offbeat games that explore everyday themes in unusual ways.
• Home Ports: Unlike many Williams games, Bubbles had limited home conversions, but was later included in compilations like Midway Arcade Treasures.

Fun Facts

• Scoreboard Promotion: As the bubble grows, it gets eyes and a smile—a rare example of visual character progression in early arcade games.
• Optical Controls: The game used a unique non-stick control mechanism, one of the few arcade titles to experiment with this input.
• Developer Signature: Python Anghelo added many whimsical touches that became his signature style.

Conclusion

Bubbles is one of the most inventive arcade games of the early 1980s. With its whimsical theme, distinctive visuals, and non-violent mechanics, it carved out a small but loyal fanbase. While it never reached the heights of other Williams hits, its creativity remains a testament to the experimental spirit of arcade gaming's golden era.

Related Pages

• Robotron: 2084: Another Williams classic with relentless action and twin-stick innovation.
• Joust: Fly, flap, and joust enemies in this surreal medieval bird battler.
• Defender: The iconic horizontal shooter that helped define the golden age.