Imagine stepping into a treasure trove of nostalgia, where the sounds of flashing lights and electronic beeps transport you back to simpler times. This is precisely what Greg Sharp has created in his remarkable game room, which boasts an impressive collection of 50 pinball machines from all corners of the globe. Nestled within what resembles a backyard shed in Albany, Western Australia, Greg's passion project comes alive with the vibrant energy of these classic games, arranged in neat rows that invite play.
The genesis of this extraordinary collection can be traced back to over 25 years ago, with a single pinball machine igniting Greg's love for the game. "I just adore playing them; it's a joy I can't explain. I always thought it would be amazing to have one of my own," he shared, reflecting on his journey into the world of pinball. Today, he has amassed a diverse assortment of 50 pinball titles, many of which resonate with memories from his teenage years.
Greg specifically seeks out machines produced between 1986 and 1999, a period marked by the merger of Bally and Williams, during which approximately 86 different machines were manufactured. "As a fisherman, 'Fish Tales' is at the top of my wish list because it beautifully combines my love for fishing with my passion for gaming," he expressed, highlighting the personal significance behind his collecting pursuits.
His shed is equipped with multiple power outlets, indicating plans for acquiring even more machines—36 additional titles are on his radar. Greg diligently tracks sales across Australia for these rare finds, many of which were originally imported from other countries. However, purchasing these machines often comes with the need for extensive repairs.
"It's reminiscent of car enthusiasts; I probably dedicate as much time to restoring the machines as I do to playing them," he said. "Just like car lovers who lift the hood to tinker, we lift the playfield to fix our pinballs."
However, the hunt for these coveted machines is becoming increasingly challenging. "As collectors like myself acquire these specific titles and choose not to sell them, they become harder and harder to find," Greg noted with a hint of frustration. "There are numerous titles here that I haven't seen available for purchase in over a decade."
In addition to fellow collectors, there has been a noticeable resurgence in interest in pinball over the last ten years—a trend Greg has observed firsthand through the competitions he organizes. "There's now a vibrant pinball community in Western Australia, and it's expanding every day. We're witnessing the emergence of a new generation of pinball players," he remarked enthusiastically.
One of his close friends, Azza Williamson, shares this passion for pinball and often visits Greg's game room. "Growing up, I remember standing on a milk crate just to reach the machines; I could hardly wait to grow taller!" Azza recalled fondly. He expressed his delight at the growth of the pinball community, stating, "I think it’s fantastic to see both older and newer generations getting involved. For a while, I thought pinball might vanish entirely, but the fact that it's still thriving makes me incredibly happy."
For Greg, finding time to enjoy his extensive collection proves to be a challenge. "I’m often too busy working to earn money for acquiring more machines, but I hope to reach a point soon where I can spend more time playing and less time working," he explained, revealing his aspirations for the future.
Ultimately, Greg envisions transforming his collection into a playable museum, inviting the public to experience the joy of pinball. "My ultimate dream is to open it up for everyone to enjoy," he concluded, underscoring his commitment to sharing his passion with others.
