8 Ball
Machine Details
Manufacturer

Williams Electronics
Year
1952
Technology Era
Electro-Mechanical (EM)
Machine Description
Williams Electronic Manufacturing Corporation's '8 Ball' pinball machine, released in 1952, represents an early example of electro-mechanical pinball design during the golden age of arcade entertainment. This machine emerged during a formative period when Williams was establishing itself as a major force in the pinball industry, creating innovative gameplay experiences.
The playfield design featured the classic billiards-themed artwork and scoring mechanisms typical of early 1950s Williams machines. The game incorporated traditional electro-mechanical components and flipper action that was becoming standardized during this formative era of pinball development. The backglass artwork reflected the entertainment aesthetics of the early 1950s era.