Competition ROM v31: In competition play an alternate competition ROM can be used which rotates the value of the saucers upon saucer entry rather than 10 point switch hits. This is much favored for competitive play.
With Stern's default ROM, there is a lot of luck involved to make the top saucer when lit for 55K, yet that is the sole concentration for the game.
Even with the competition ROM noted above, the strategy should be to shoot up top via the left spinner lane to collect the award at the saucer. Best rewards are Double Bonus and 55K points.
Plunge to the top saucer
Saucers
Both saucers are lit for the indicated award.
With Stern's default ROM the saucer value changes with every 10 point switch hit
With the modified Competition ROM the saucer value cycles with each entry to a saucer. (Much more fair for tournament play)
It is best to avoid the middle, draingerous saucer entirely and shoot only for the top saucer
The possible values for the saucers are:
5K points
5K points + light spinner, light Stingray lane (right side lane with rollovers to the top)
5K points + light double bonus
5K points + extra ball (worth 0)
55K points
When lit the spinner is worth 1K/spin, otherwise 100/spin
The rollovers in the Stingray lane are worth 1K when lit, otherwise 100
Left Drop Targets
Completing the left drop target bank awards 10K
On the 2nd completion the outlanes are lit for a special (100K)
