Earthshaker!
Williams, 1989 • System 11C • 4 Players • Disaster/earthquake theme
Pat Lawlor’s first shaker-motor pin: fast ramps, chaotic moments, and a game that literally fights back.
Quick Facts
Manufacturer
Williams
Year
1989
System
System 11C
Players
4
Production
5,265 units
Display
Alphanumeric
Design Team
Design
Pat Lawlor
Artwork
John Youssi
Software
Brian Eddy / System 11 team
Sound/Music
Brian Schmidt (Williams sound team)
Notable Features
- Industry-first shaker motor integrated into gameplay
- Two ramps with fast feeds and combo potential
- Lock/multiball feature built around controlled shots
- Classic Lawlor layout: shots feel “close,” but demand accuracy
How to Play (Quick Start)
- Start with safe ramps: Use the ramps to build points and advance features without living in the slings.
- Light locks: Progress toward multiball by completing the required targets/lanes.
- Start multiball: Get balls locked and start your main scoring phase.
- Cash in when lit: When big values/features are ready, take them—then return to your safe builders.
Rules & Scoring Highlights
- Multiball focus: Earthshaker is often won by who starts/controls multiball best.
- Shaker moments: The motor isn’t just a gimmick—expect ball movement and be ready to nudge and recover.
- Bonus + multipliers: System 11C scoring still leans on bonus—build it intentionally.
- Shot selection matters: Misses can ricochet to danger; accuracy beats volume.
Tournament Tips
- Trap before you shoot: Lawlor shots can be tight—controlled shooting pays off immediately.
- Plan your lock attempts: If a lock shot is rejecting on your machine, switch to safer progress first.
- Use the nudge: The shaker will move the ball—smart nudges keep it on a flipper instead of an outlane.
Media / Flyers
Rules / Rule Sheets / Manuals
Video Tutorials
PAPA tutorial (classic)
Earthshaker! gameplay spotlight
Earthshaker! tutorial & gameplay (modern)