Pinball Gaming 101

1) What is "good gameplay" when it comes to pinball game design?

The good gameplay element when it comes to pinball is in fact the placement of the round/mushroom bumpers, how many there are and how big they are is what determines whether or not the game is worth playing. But constant feedback to the player that they should be rewarded for their efforts, for the player is shooting a ball all over the board, over and over again.  Even if the player is skilled or not, they can still make an accomplishment in making a high score, also feeling that sense of accomplishment made by them and them alone.

2) How do pinball playfield designers create exciting experiences?

 The game that the pinball playfield designer gives the player is one that has not only flair, but excitement.  This element of excitement is what keeps the player enthralled and playing over and over.  When the player meets a special condition(s) the designer should incorporate lights, sounds, and images/animations on screens or devices and little gimmick moving parts on the board.  These things need to be constantly running to add to that excitement which keeps the player flipping those flippers to get the ball in a certain part of the field or in a certain hole (e.g. launch a rocket, get into the saloon in a western town, spell out a name or the games' title by lighting up lights on the fields floor).  All of these elements are crucial and key to a good if not fantastic pinball experience.