According to Wikipedia, Pinball is a type of arcade game, usually coin-operated, where a player attempts to score points by manipulating one or more metal balls on a playfield inside a glass-covered case called a pinball machine. The primary objective of the game is to score as many points as possible. Secondary objectives are to maximize the time spent playing (by earning extra balls and keeping the ball in play as long as possible) and to earn free games (known as replays).
The origins of pinball are intertwined with the history of many other games. Games played outdoors by rolling balls or stones on a grass course, such as bocce or bowls, eventually evolved into games played by hitting the balls with sticks and propelling them at targets. Croquet, golf and shuffleboard are examples of these games.
These games led to indoor versions that could be played on a table, such as billiards, or on the floor of a pub, like bowling. The tabletop versions of these games became the ancestor of the modern pinball machine.
Pinball has evolved from what it used to be, an arcade game, to video. Microsoft Pinball Arcade Video Game--Windows XP and Vista compatible, for example, has the widest variety of tables, realistic ball physics, and striking graphics all add up to wickedly fast action for current and prospective pinball wizards.
The game features seven tables that made pinball history, just like the ones from the arcade, that look, sound, and play like the real thing. In fact, you can go for the high score on one groundbreaking table from each decade (from the 1930s to the 90s). Pinball Arcade also keeps track of high scores for each table, features customizable controls for flippers and nudging, and includes game-winning strategies to become a pinball wizard. Makes a great gift for anyone who likes computer games and/or pinball!