First Impressions: Spooky Pinball’s Evil Dead
A Groovy, Fast-Paced Game That Totally Surprised Me
I got to set up and play Spooky’s Evil Dead today, and honestly—this game really impressed me. After just a few plays, I think it might be one of the best-shooting machines I’ve ever stepped up to.
Right away, it felt like the layout strikes a great balance. There are plenty of shots that are accessible for the average player, so it feels fun and rewarding right off the bat. But if you’re chasing points or trying to really dig into the ruleset, it offers some serious challenge too.
There are so many cool features packed into this thing. The cabin ball lock is super well done, and the basement door that opens to the lower playfield is a great touch. Playing multiball while in the lower playfield is chaotic—but in the best, most fun way.
One design choice that caught me off guard at first was the flipper where the right slingshot usually goes. But it makes total sense once you realize a slingshot would’ve made it way too easy to hit the “GROOVY” drop targets. Clearing those to open up the moving hand target is just such a cool moment—it really adds to the fun and theme.
I also love the shotgun shell targets. They remind me of the satisfying standups in Elvira and the Party Monsters—something about the way they hit just feels right. Add in some clever pop-up targets, satisfying ramp shots, and smooth flow, and you’ve got a machine that feels packed with personality and creativity.
Normally I’m not the biggest fan of wide-body machines—they can feel a bit floaty or slow. But Evil Dead changed my mind. It moves really well, and the extra space is actually used to pack in features rather than just spread things out.
And I have to give Spooky credit for some of the small but classy touches too—things like playfield plastic protectors and silicone rubbers. It’s those little extras that show they care about quality and longevity.
The artwork looks awesome, the callouts are hilarious, and overall, this game just feels like a hit. I can’t wait to get more time on it and explore everything it has to offer. If my thoughts change, I’ll definitely update this—but for now, this one’s climbing to the top of my favorites list.
If you get the chance to play it—do it. It’s groovy.