ORIGINAL VS REMAKE · Williams / Chicago Gaming

Medieval Madness
BUYING GUIDE

A famous Williams original and a modern remake — not one uniform market.

1997 Williams originalOriginal / modern remake

Price original and remake separatelyNot a valuation. The right comparable depends on exact machine and condition.

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START WITH THE RIGHT MACHINE

WHAT MAKES IT WORTH A LOOK?

Players who prize fast, approachable rules and want a centerpiece machine with a recognizable legacy.

Three things to verify before you buy

Compare the 1997 Williams game with Chicago Gaming remakes by exact release and machine configuration.
Test the moving castle drawbridge, castle bash area, trolls and ball locks under actual gameplay.
Verify the manufacturer plate, electronics and documentation; a remake is not an original Williams game.

What can go wrong?

Do not use original-machine sold comparables to value remakes. Playfield wear and broken toys can skew price by thousands.

How to compare listings without fooling yourself

Record the exact manufacturer, model, edition and year. Then compare the same configuration in similar cosmetic and mechanical condition. Ask for a full game video, close-ups of wear areas, a view underneath the playfield, readable circuit-board photos and a description of any repairs. Compare the total price after delivery, not the first number you see in a listing.

A recently polished cabinet can hide a tired playfield. A rare or limited edition can be desirable yet difficult to service. If a seller cannot demonstrate a major mechanism, price the machine as though that mechanism may need attention.

Our purchase decision

We would buy the example with a complete service history, clear photos and a demonstrably working game over a cosmetically showy listing with vague claims. For modern games, read the edition comparison guide and evaluate dealer support. For vintage machines, study playfield wear and used-value comps.