So basically a machine with dead batteries.

For a few extra bucks get a machine that works and enjoy it. Then get a fixer upper if you want to play around with fixing. just my opinion. Also head to pinball museum in vegas to get an idea of which games you enjoy.

I believe he wants a broken machine so he can buy it cheaper, something nearly everyone on here wants...

Dead batteries=examine the MPU above and below the battery pack area for any battery corrosion, which can look like a white or green residue but also can hide as dark grey solder joints. In this case of minor board damage, could send it out for repair or repair it yourself, but will require the battery alkaline to be neutralized well for it not to return and all parts that were hit would have to be replaced.

What's wrong with that?

Right. But could also be an mpu that needs replacement at about $300, so factor that in.

In fact it probably is. I’m finding fewer and fewer “found” games of that era that don’t have battery toasted boards.

My first machine was playable with minimal work. I would suggest that route. Then in the future if you to get a fixer upper go for it! But always try and have one you can play. That way if you need to take a step back and play a few games you can.

You may find even the toastiest of alkaline damaged boards still have some life in them if you don't mind doing some soldering

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pinwiki.com has a good repository of information.

Could be dead/missing batteries, or the batteries may have leaked on the MPU. So, at least, you'll have to deal with batteries, at most, MPU repairs or a replacement.

Plus all of the issues that go along with a game that hasn't been serviced in a while--mechanical issues, lamp issues, coil issues, possible reset issues.

A project game is cheaper, yes, but there can sometimes be a few hundred dollars in parts that go into it. For a decent shop job, I usually spend around $300-$600 per game. But--it's that somewhat on the low side since I can normally handle pretty much any repairs on my own and don't have to send out boards for repair.

It depends on the condition of the artwork and playfield, and what repairs actually need to be done.

With fish tales, the cabinet is usually faded, there is typically wear around the playfield inserts, and the topper is sometimes missing. All of that decreases the value.

Depending on what state it's in and the condition, maybe anywhere between $1000-$2500.

But, if you're up for it, decals and replacement playfields are available if you want to do a high-end restoration. That's a lot more expensive and time consuming than just a shop job, and I don't recommend that for a beginner since most people just want to get a game up and running and start playing, and beginners can sometimes lose interest in a project that will take a few months to work on.

It depends on how interested you are on seeing a project through. A lot of us got into the hobby by fixing or acquiring a broken game.

Some people just like to play, others like to repair, do research, document, collect, bargain hunt, compete in tournaments, go to shows....there are several aspects to the hobby.

If you think repairing games is in your lane, there's a lot you can explore in this area.

Yep, at this point, I basically assume there is battery damage on a neglected game.

I would recommend a working machine to start.... That way you can get a feel for the hobby in a good way , and not a "going to burn this house down just to crush this damn machine" kind of way. I would just buy a cheap fishtails and play it.... It will break, just wait

Good luck and welcome to the fun!

Or addiction!