Released in 1996 by Bally, Scared Stiff is the second installment in the iconic Elvira pinball series. Designed by Dennis Nordman with artwork by Greg Freres, this machine captures the humor, charm, and spooky fun of Elvira, Mistress of the Dark. Packed with interactive toys, creative modes, and Elvira’s signature wit, Scared Stiff is a must-play for fans of pinball and horror-comedy alike.
Overview: Tales of Terror Await
In Scared Stiff, players help Elvira battle through six "Tales of Terror" to light the Stiff-O-Meter and achieve the ultimate Scared Stiff jackpot. With its blend of engaging gameplay, campy humor, and interactive features, this game offers something for everyone—from casual players to seasoned pinball enthusiasts.
The machine’s combination of spooky themes, suggestive humor, and creative design has cemented its place as one of the most beloved pinball machines of all time.
Check out gameplay of Scared Stiff in the tutorial by Bug's Scream N' Stream below.
Video
Gameplay Features
Six Tales of Terror
Players must complete six challenges to progress toward the Scared Stiff jackpot:
- Return of the Deadheads
- Eyes of the Bony Beast
- Terror from the Crate
- The Stiff in the Coffin
- Night of the Leapers
- The Monster’s Lab
Each tale introduces unique objectives and gameplay mechanics, ensuring varied and engaging experiences.
The Stiff-O-Meter
- The ultimate goal is to complete the Tales of Terror and max out the Stiff-O-Meter, a hilarious gauge that measures your progress toward the jackpot.
Interactive Toys and Features
- Spinning Spider: A rotating spider in the backbox determines random awards, keeping gameplay unpredictable.
- Coffin Multiball: Lock balls in the coffin for multiball chaos and massive scoring opportunities.
- Bony Beast Ramp: Shoot through the ramp to unleash the Eyes of the Bony Beast mode.
Voice and Humor
- Elvira’s voiceovers, full of suggestive humor and witty quips, bring the game to life and keep players entertained.
Design and Development
The Designer: Dennis Nordman
Dennis Nordman, known for his work on Elvira and the Party Monsters and White Water, brought his signature style of creative gameplay and humor to Scared Stiff.
Artwork by Greg Freres
Greg Freres’ hand-drawn artwork perfectly complements the game’s campy horror theme. From creepy monsters to hilarious details, every inch of the playfield reflects the spooky-fun aesthetic of Elvira’s world.
Sound and Music
- A mix of eerie sound effects, campy music, and Elvira’s voiceovers create an immersive and entertaining atmosphere.
Why Scared Stiff Stands Out
Unique Theme:
- Combines horror and comedy in a way that appeals to a wide audience.
Interactive Features:
- Toys like the spinning spider and coffin multiball add depth and replayability.
Elvira’s Personality:
- Her humorous voiceovers and presence elevate the machine’s charm and entertainment value.
Collector Appeal:
- A highly sought-after machine for its design, gameplay, and nostalgic value.
Fun Facts About Scared Stiff
Backglass Details:
- The backglass features a fun optical illusion that changes depending on how it’s lit.
Horror References:
- Many elements of the game nod to classic horror films, creating a nostalgic experience for fans of the genre.
Cult Following:
- Scared Stiff remains a favorite among collectors and frequently ranks highly in pinball community polls.
Competitive Play
While Scared Stiff is accessible to casual players, its strategic multiball modes and scoring opportunities make it a popular choice in competitive play. The game’s balanced rule set ensures that both novice and expert players can enjoy it.
Final Thoughts: Spooky Fun Awaits
Bally’s Scared Stiff pinball machine is a true classic that combines spooky themes, hilarious humor, and engaging gameplay. Whether you’re a fan of Elvira, horror-comedy, or pinball innovation, this game delivers an experience that’s as entertaining as it is unique.
With its timeless design and enduring appeal, Scared Stiff remains one of the most celebrated pinball machines ever created. Don’t miss the chance to play this iconic piece of pinball history!
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Related Pages:
Can't get enough of Scared Stiff? Try these awesome sources:
- Pinside's detailed page on Scared Stiff.
- Internet Pinball Database facts & figures on Scared Stiff.
- Pinball Reviews take on Scared Stiff (Youtube video)