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Bad Cats

gameactive17 mentionsFirst seen Apr 4, 2009Last seen Feb 19, 2026

Profile

Bad Cats is a classic pinball machine that has become notable within the pinball community for its significance as both a desirable collectible and subject of passionate discussion. Originally a Williams System 11 machine from 1989, it gained prominence as Rebecca's holy grail machine, which she discovered at the Texas Pinball Festival and eventually acquired through a community connection. The machine has appeared across multiple pinball community spaces and discussions, reflecting its status as a cherished title among enthusiasts.

Aliases

No aliases

Relationships

  • appears_inDinerReferenced in direct comparison of sound design qualitymedium
  • appears_inRebeccaRebecca's holy grail machine that she discovered and eventually acquiredmedium
  • appears_inTexas Pinball FestivalVenue where Rebecca discovered Bad Catsmedium
  • affiliated_withPaulCommunity connection through whom Bad Cats was acquired from Coloradomedium

Facts

No facts recorded

Claims (4)

  • factualhigh

    Bad Cats was designed by Barry Ausler with Python Angelo's art package and overall theme vision

    Source: Alan (host)Episode 19 - Die on this Hill: Bad Cats
  • factualhigh

    Dan Forden and Ed Suchocki drew inspiration from Alice Cooper's 'Gutter Cat vs. the Jets' for Bad Cats music

    Source: Ed Suchocki (quoted programmer)Episode 19 - Die on this Hill: Bad Cats
  • factualhigh

    Bad Cats ranks #179 on the Pinside Top 100 list

    Source: Alan (host)Episode 19 - Die on this Hill: Bad Cats
  • opinionhigh

    Bad Cats is fun to play despite scoring balance issues

    Source: Jess DiNardo (guest)

Recent Mentions (17)

  • Williams 1980s solid-state pinball machine that copied Vari-Target design

    Episode 69 - Vari-TargetsMay 19, 2015
  • Classic pinball machine played at Expo; ranked #4 by Ian as game that surprised him positively; exceeded expectations

    Episode 64: Top 5, TMNT Banner Giveaway, and Other Cool Stuff!Jul 22, 2020
  • Williams pinball game; Brian Eddy's early work, programming effects; memorable for 'meow meow meow' match effect

    Episode 28 - Brian Eddy (Stern Pinball)Dec 16, 2018
  • Pinball machine; Dan created jazz/lounge music and attempted cat sound effects

    TOPCast 65: Dan FordenFeb 21, 2010
  • Pinball game referenced as sharing similar angled playfield skill shot mechanic with Fireball Arcade Classic

    #72 Fireball Classic - The Classic Pinball PodcastJan 18, 2022
  • Williams pinball game; Python Angela contributed artwork

    Police Force (Williams 1989)Aug 14, 2020
  • Rare System 11 EM that sold for $12,000 at auction; typically $4,800-$7,000; seeing resurgence in collector interest

Contradictions

  • Existing: Bad Cats is a Williams System 11 pinball machine from 1989vsConflicting: Bad Cats is described as a Bally pinball machine at Triangle Pinball Collective
    Resolved
    kept_existing · Mar 3, 2026

Related Glossary Terms

No linked glossary terms

Episode 19 - Die on this Hill: Bad Cats
Episode 104 Drew needs a DoctorSep 14, 2021
  • Pinball machine designed by Barry Oursler; one of his two least favorite games he designed.

    Pinball Heroes: Barry OurslerApr 4, 2009
  • Pinball game Bob Thurman owned for a period; described as 'hell of a game' and 'great game'

    Bob Thurman - Pinball repair and RestorationAug 30, 2018
  • Vintage pinball title; Jess acquiring restoration project with new playfield and red side art; both hosts rate as 'nailed it'

    The Pinball Podcast Episode 223 - Precision GrumpinessDec 1, 2023
  • Williams System 11 machine with identical bonus countdown to Riverboat Gambler

    Riverboat Gambler (Williams 1990)Nov 10, 2019
  • Williams pinball game designed by Barry Oursler. Featured in Hardy's collection as one of his longest-owned machines and a family favorite.

    For Barry...Mar 1, 2022
  • Machine purchased ~10 years ago on wife's recommendation ('I love it'); initially criticized by community; now highly sought after; longest-held machine in Jeffrey's collection; full restoration

    Pinball Innovators & Makers Podcast Ep 10: PinBall ReBorn: The Showman and The MuseAug 8, 2023
  • Williams pinball classic at Button Mash, reviewer notes no prior Pindigo score for this machine

    2019 SUMMER ARCADE TOUR STOP 10: Button Mash - Los Angeles, California (July 2019)Jul 1, 2019
  • Bally pinball machine at Triangle Pinball Collective; venue changes code weekly; hosts discuss Stern Electronics System 11 era updated ROMs

    The Power of PinballFeb 19, 2026
  • Classic pinball machine; Rebecca's holy grail machine discovered at Texas Pinball Festival; eventually acquired from Colorado through community connection with Paul

    Episode 311: Fliptronic’s Rebecca & JordanJul 29, 2021
  • Williams System 11 pinball machine from 1989, subject of the episode's defense

    Episode 19 - Die on this Hill: Bad CatsFeb 26, 2024