The Galactic Standard: Star Trek: The Next Generation Pinball (Model 823)
Engage with the most ambitious “SuperPin” ever created. Released by Williams in 1993, Star Trek: The Next Generation is a masterclass in deep rulesets and mechanical innovation. Known in technical restoration circles by the Model 823 designation—specifically referencing the high-velocity FL-11823 flipper coils required for its massive wide-body playfield—this machine transports you directly onto the bridge of the U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701-D.
To Boldly Go: The SuperPin Advantage
As part of the legendary Williams “SuperPin” series, the Model 823 features a playfield that is several inches wider than standard machines. This extra real estate allows for a sprawling layout that includes three flippers, two high-speed ramps, and a subterranean ball-delivery system that is unparalleled in 90s pinball design.
Command Deck Features
- Dual Rotating Phaser Cannons: Mounted on the slingshots, these motorized cannons automatically load with pinballs. You must aim and fire them at targets to destroy Borg ships and start multiball modes.
- The Borg Ship: A massive, detailed toy in the upper-left corner of the playfield that “locks” balls behind a mechanical gate, preparing you for the 3-ball Borg Multiball.
- Under-Playfield Subway: The 823 utilizes an intricate network of tunnels beneath the wood, whisking the ball from one side of the galaxy to the other in seconds.
- Holodeck Missions: Complete seven distinct missions based on classic episodes, including “The Battle at Sector 001” and “The Final Frontier.”
Engineering the 823 Power Curve
The Model 823 is a heavy machine that requires significant power to keep the action fast. The FL-11823 flipper coils are the specific “823” spec used to ensure the ball can reach the very top of the 29-inch wide playfield and clear the “Warp Factor” ramps without losing momentum.
Mechanical Sophistication
- DCS Sound System: Experience the actual voices of the entire TNG cast, including Patrick Stewart (Capt. Picard), Jonathan Frakes (Riker), and Brent Spiner (Data), recorded specifically for this game.
- Six-Ball Multiball: The 823 is one of the few machines capable of a true 6-ball “Final Frontier” frenzy, managed by high-speed opto-sensors.
- Warp Speed Ramp: A steep, recurring loop that rewards consecutive shots with “Warp Factors,” eventually leading to the elusive Warp 9.9 jackpot.
Visuals and Cabinet Art
The Model 823 is a visual centerpiece. The cabinet features iconic imagery of the Enterprise soaring through a nebula, while the playfield is adorned with detailed insignias and Starfleet technology.
- Wide-Body Presence: Its physical size makes it the “Captain” of any game room, offering a more immersive “cockpit” feel than standard cabinets.
- DMD Cinematic Animations: From the Borg Queen’s threats to the Enterprise jumping into warp, the dot-matrix animations are some of the most cinematic of the era.
- LED Upgrades: At MyPinballMachine, we offer the 823 with custom “Cool White” and “Deep Blue” LED kits that mimic the lighting of the actual Enterprise sets.
The Ultimate Collector’s Investment
Currently priced at $15,999, the Star Trek: TNG Model 823 is a blue-chip investment for pinball collectors and sci-fi fans alike. Its deep ruleset means you can play for years without seeing everything the game has to offer. At MyPinballMachine, we fully overhaul the complex “subway” system and phaser motors to ensure your ship is always “Ready for Warp.”
“This isn’t just a pinball machine; it’s an episode of the show you get to control. The voice acting alone makes it worth the price of admission.” — Starfleet Gaming Journal
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the “823” designation?
In the world of Williams SuperPins, 823 refers to the FL-11823 flipper coils. These specific coils provide the high-voltage “punch” required to move the pinball across the larger-than-average wide-body playfield found in Star Trek: TNG.
- Do the phaser cannons actually fire the ball?
Yes! The cannons rotate automatically. When you pull the trigger on the front of the cabinet (the “Start” button), the machine fires the ball at the lit targets. Timing is everything!
- Is the voice acting original?
Absolutely. Williams secured the entire main cast of The Next Generation to record custom lines for the game, led by Sir Patrick Stewart as Captain Jean-Luc Picard.
- How difficult is the “Subway” system to maintain?
The under-playfield tunnels are made of high-impact plastic. During our professional restoration, we clean all opto-sensors and polish the tunnels to ensure the ball never gets stuck in “deep space.”
- Can this machine be shipped to my home?
Yes. MyPinballMachine specializes in home delivery. The Model 823 is a heavy machine (300 lbs), but we offer Free Shipping on qualifying orders and “White Glove” setup to ensure it is safely placed in your game room.








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