Jon Norris
Jon Norris is a highly influential figure in pinball design, best known for his innovative contributions at Premier Technology (Gottlieb) in the late 1980s and early 1990s. He pioneered mode-based gameplay with Lights...Camera...Action!, a design philosophy that has since become standard in modern pinball. His career includes a range of classic titles such as Cue Ball Wizard, Diamond Lady, and Bad Girls, blending player-friendly mechanics with engaging themes. Beyond his individual designs, Norris was instrumental in shaping the rules and software of many Gottlieb machines, making him a key force in the company's final years before its pinball division closed in 1996.
After Premier's closure, Norris worked briefly for Sega/Stern Pinball, but left the industry in 2000 due to workplace conditions. He later applied his game design expertise to casino gaming and redemption machines while remaining active in the pinball community. In recent years, he has re-emerged with new pinball concepts, including Champs Élysées and Golden Buffalo, demonstrating his ongoing passion for innovation. His legacy continues to influence pinball design, particularly in narrative-driven rule sets and accessibility-focused mechanics that cater to both casual players and experts.
Jon Norris's contributions to pinball extend beyond his machines—he has also shaped the way designers think about game balance, player engagement, and storytelling within pinball. As the industry experiences a resurgence, Norris's involvement hints at exciting possibilities for new pinball projects, reinforcing his status as a vital figure in the evolution of the game.
