How do people who are “good” at pinball manage to consistently avoid those random bounces that just go right down the middle out that there is no counter-play for?

Question

I have always wanted to get into pinball. But the few times I decided to really give it a go. I could do alright but most of my games seemed to end with a bounce that went straight down the middle out with nothing I can do about it.

When you watch professional pinball players. It doesnt matter what game it is they always seem to be able to avoid those shots even if its their first time on a machine.

So there has to be a method or developable skill to it. But I cant for the life of me understand it.

In: Other

Answer 1

You simple learn which ball positions (relative to flippers), speeds and angles are dangerous by playing a **LOT**.

If you know that, for example, a fast ball comming from the right side and hitting the root of your flipper often ends up in chaotic mess and has a high chance of going down the middle, you simply avoid hitting it, or just raise your flipper in preparation so it stops the ball.

There is no magic to it, just playing a ton. Like 4-8 hours a day for weeks. You develop a feeling for the ball and what situations to avoid or how to deal with them. And every machine is different.