Dave Zabriskie
Dave Zabriskie is a renowned composer and sound designer who played a pivotal role in shaping pinball audio during the late 1980s and 1990s. Beginning his career at Gottlieb/Premier, he created some of the most distinctive and memorable soundtracks in pinball history, including TX-Sector (1988) and Class of 1812 (1991). His work helped push pinball audio beyond simple electronic tones, incorporating multi-layered compositions, dynamic sound effects, and even humor—like the famous ‘clucking chicken’ rendition of the 1812 Overture. In the early 90s, he transitioned to Williams/Bally, where he composed for some of the industry's most beloved titles, including Theatre of Magic (1995), Tales of the Arabian Nights (1996), and Cirqus Voltaire (1997). His ability to create immersive, theme-driven music set a new standard for pinball sound design.
Zabriskie’s influence extended beyond individual games; he played a significant role in implementing evolving audio technology, from early FM synthesis to high-fidelity Digital Compression System (DCS) sound. He collaborated with designers, software engineers, and voice actors, ensuring that music and effects seamlessly integrated into gameplay. His leadership in audio departments at Williams/Midway helped professionalize sound production in pinball, influencing how modern machines incorporate cinematic and dynamic soundtracks. His expertise later transitioned into the broader gaming industry, where he continued composing for casino games and interactive entertainment.
Today, Zabriskie’s legacy lives on in the lasting appeal of the games he worked on, as well as in the continued evolution of pinball sound design. His compositions remain fan favorites, and many of the machines he contributed to are celebrated as some of the greatest of all time. His pioneering work in thematically rich, interactive audio laid the groundwork for modern pinball and gaming soundtracks, ensuring his influence endures in arcades, tournaments, and digital pinball recreations alike.
