The King of the Castle: Medieval Madness Pinball Machine (Model 841)
In the hierarchy of the “Silver Ball,” one name consistently sits upon the throne: Medieval Madness. Originally released by Williams in 1997, the Model 841 configuration (referencing the original Williams production sequence and core flipper assemblies like the FL-11841) is more than a game—it is a masterpiece of kinetic art. It seamlessly blends high-stakes strategy with a satirical, laugh-out-loud take on 15th-century fantasy.
The Siege Begins: Gameplay & Objectives
Your mission is clear: Restore order to the kingdom by defeating six unruly lords and eventually confronting the King of Payne. The playfield is a battlefield of ramps, loops, and the most iconic “toy” in pinball history—the Exploding Castle.
Key Game Modes
- Castle Siege: Batter the drawbridge and portcullis with your pinball. Once breached, shoot the ball into the castle to watch the towers “explode” and crumble in a spectacular mechanical display.
- Troll Madness: Two devious Trolls pop up from the playfield to block your shots. Hit them enough times to start a frantic multiball mode.
- Peasant Revolt & Damsel in Distress: Complete these sub-missions to earn the respect of the realm and build your multiplier.
- Battle for the Kingdom: The ultimate “Wizard Mode.” Only the most skilled knights can light all the insignia and claim the throne.
Mechanical Mastery of the 841 Build
The Model 841 is prized for its “snappy” feel and reliable mechanical feedback. Whether you are playing an immaculately restored original or a premium remake, the core physics remain the benchmark for the industry.
Engineering Highlights
- Motorized Drawbridge & Portcullis: A complex assembly of gears and switches that provides a satisfying physical barrier to the castle.
- Dual Pop-Up Trolls: These targets utilize high-speed solenoids to vanish and reappear, creating a dynamic playfield that changes in an instant.
- The Catapult Slam: A dedicated wireform ramp that “launches” your ball across the playfield, simulating a boulder being hurled at the castle walls.
- FL-11841 Flipper Power: The “841” spec flipper coils provide the perfect amount of loft for the steep ramps without risking damage to the playfield plastics.
Cabinet Art & Sound Design
Medieval Madness features legendary artwork by Greg Freres and John Youssi, capturing a vibrant, comic-book aesthetic. The audio experience is equally legendary, featuring the voices of future comedy stars including Tina Fey, who voiced several of the princesses.
- DCS Sound System: Delivers booming orchestral scores and hilarious character call-outs (“They’re hitting me with a chicken!”) with 16-bit clarity.
- Dot Matrix Display (DMD): Features charming animations of fire-breathing dragons, jousting knights, and crumbling masonry.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
| Manufacturer | Williams Electronic Games |
| Release Year | 1997 |
| Model Designation | 841 Series |
| Theme | Medieval / Fantasy / Satire |
| Players | 1 to 4 Players |
| Coil Type | FL-11841 High-Performance |
| Weight | ~127 kg (280 lbs) |
| Dimensions | 56″ L x 29″ W x 76″ H |
Why Invest in Medieval Madness?
At $15,999, Medieval Madness is an investment in both fun and financial value. Historically, this title has held its value better than almost any other pinball machine in existence. At MyPinballMachine, we ensure your 841-spec unit is showroom-ready.
“There is a reason this game is ranked #1 on almost every enthusiast list. It is the perfect balance of easy-to-learn and impossible-to-master.” — International Flipper Pinball Association (IFPA) Collector Spotlight
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What makes the “Model 841” version special?
The 841 refers to the classic Williams engineering standard, specifically the FL-11841 flipper coils which were factory-tuned to provide the exact velocity needed for the game’s high ramps and castle gate.
2. Is the castle difficult to repair if it stops “exploding”?
While the castle is a complex mechanical toy, it is designed with standard Williams parts. Our units come with a fully serviced castle assembly, and we provide detailed guides should you ever need to adjust the gate or towers.
3. Does this machine include the “Troll” targets?
Yes! The 841 configuration includes the two hidden Trolls that pop up from the playfield floor during specific play modes.
4. Can I buy this for a home game room?
Absolutely. While originally built for arcades, this machine is a centerpiece for home collectors. We offer a “Home-Quiet” setting to adjust the volume and shaker motor intensity for residential environments.
5. How do I handle shipping for a 280-lb machine?
MyPinballMachine offers free shipping on qualifying orders. We use specialized freight carriers who understand how to handle delicate electronics, delivering your machine in a reinforced crate.








Reviews
There are no reviews yet.