Counterforce pinball rules and strategy

The Strategy

The first switch starts seven descending missile columns. Hit each drop target, or its matching yellow lane or standup, before that column reaches the green multiplier row. Clear all seven before row three to light the upper-left Collect Bonus hole; collecting resets base bonus but keeps Bonus X.

The goal

Attack the easiest center targets directly and use yellow spot shots for the outside targets. Watch individual columns rather than waiting for the whole bank: only unfinished columns erase their multiplier lamps. When Collect Bonus lights, take it immediately and rebuild the base value under the retained multiplier.

  1. As the first playfield switch starts the chase, identify which of the seven drop targets are still standing.

  2. Shoot standing targets directly; use a matching yellow rollover or standup to spot an outside target that is difficult to hit.

  3. Finish all seven before their chase lights pass the third row to light the upper-left Collect Bonus hole.

  4. Shoot the lit Collect Bonus hole for base bonus times the retained Bonus X, then begin another seven-target cycle.

Need to know
Start the Chase
Hit the first playfield switch.
Destroy a Missile
Hit its drop target or matching yellow spot shot.
Light Collect Bonus
Clear all seven targets before row three.

Machine setup

  • Test all seven memory drop targets and resets, all seven descending chase columns, the yellow spot lanes and standups, the Collect Bonus hole and kickout, both pop bumpers, four flippers, and the bonus display.
  • Confirm that each yellow shot knocks down only its matching target, each missed column clears only its own multiplier lamp, partial targets and Bonus X are remembered between balls, and the chase audio accelerates with the light sequence.
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Counterforce playfield

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