Are you new to pinball? If so, get ready for some Flippin' Good Fun! Since Pastime's games are all set to "Free Play," there's no need to insert quarters or tokens into the machines. Instead you can jump right into playing! But before you do, it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with the game so you know how it works. Every game has at least two flippers (paddles used to hit the ball) at the bottom of the game table. Sometimes additional flippers are positioned on the playfield as well. You'll also notice other elements including ramps, habit trails (wire rails that the ball travels on), bumpers, holes and targets. Once you know their location you'll be better prepared to navigate around the playfield. It also helps to know the object of the game! To learn the rules, read the instruction card located to the left of the bottom flippers.

• To begin a game, push the round START button located on the left side of the front panel one time. Most games are multi-player, allowing up to four people to play against each other. To add another player, push the button again.

• To launch the ball, pull the plunger (the spring-loaded rod) on the right side. Most games are set for three balls but if you're lucky you'll be awarded an extra ball or two.

• Use the buttons on the left and right sides of the cabinet to activate the flippers. Inexperienced players often hit the buttons simultaneously and repetitively. To control the ball, however, you want to use one flipper at a time. Follow the path of the ball and anticipate where it's going. Then use the closest flipper to send the ball back up into the playfield.

• Blinking lights are a pinball game's way of saying Over here! Over here! Many games will also broadcast or spell out what targets to shoot for. To aim the ball, cradle it first by letting it rest in the "V" formed when the flipper is up. Then release the flipper and immediately push the button. It takes a bit of practice to capture a ball and line up a shot. Don't be discouraged if your early attempts don't succeed!

When your last ball drains (goes down the hole between the flippers or through the outlane), the game is over. But the fun is not! With more than 60 pins to play at Pastime Pinball, you have lots of opportunities to practice your newfound skills.