Trackballs: Arcade Video Games And Multicades

 

Hi!  Trackballs, also sometimes called rollerballs, are the game controllers used to play such arcade video games as Golden Tee Golf, Centipede, and Missile Command.  While most such trackball games can also be somewhat played using a joystick, the best play is achieved using a trackball.

 

Years ago (1980), Atari popularized trackball games with such hits as the two games previously mentioned - Centipede (pictured) and Missile Command.  Back then, there were only a couple brands of trackballs.  But, the WICO trackball was the leading performer, and was the one used by Atari. 

 

Today, there are many brands and styles of video game trackballs available.  But, for arcade purposes, there is only one top performing style - it is still the WICO trackball style.  Unfortunately, WICO is no longer in business, but fortunately the trackball design rights were acquired by Suzo-Happ.

Suzo-Happ employed new methods and new materials, and improved upon the performance of the original WICO trackball.  Arguably, the modern Suzo-Happ arcade trackball is the best that money can buy - it is the fastest and smoothest of any. 

 

At Ace Amusements, we exclusively use only Suzo-Happ trackballs in our custom built multicades.

And, we exclusively only use nylon lock-nuts to secure the trackballs.  Our method prevents any physical distortion of the trackball case, which helps to guarantee flawless trackball performance.

 

Here are the specs for the two Suzo-Happ trackballs we use most frequently:

 

1.  The 2-1/4" trackball is used for multicades with smaller control panels.

Suzo-Happ webpage link - http://na.suzohapp.com/trackballs/565500xx.htm

Why 2-1/4"? 

While a 3" trackball can sometimes be used, typically a classic size control panel will only accomodate a 2-1/4" trackball.  And, original equipment for the most popular trackball game, Centipede, was a 2-1/4" trackball.

This trackball retails for $77.  We offer the installation of this trackball for $100.

Default ball color is white, but a few colors are available.

 

 

2.  The 3" USB trackball is used for multicades with larger control panels.

Suzo-Happ webpage link - http://na.suzohapp.com/trackballs/565600xx2.htm

Why 3"? 

An original Golden Tee game is played with a 3" trackball, as well as a few other classics. Hence, the 3" trackball offers their most realistic game play.

This trackball retails for $185.  We offer the installation of this trackball for $200.

Default ball color is white, but a few colors are available.

 

Send me an email if you have any questions:  [email protected]