Machine Description

Contact, released by D. Gottlieb & Co. in 1978, represents a significant transition period in pinball history as manufacturers were moving from electro-mechanical to solid-state electronics. This machine emerged during a pivotal year when Gottlieb was introducing their first solid-state games while still producing some electro-mechanical models.

The theme of 'Contact' played into the late 1970s fascination with space and science fiction, following the massive success of Star Wars and Close Encounters of the Third Kind. The playfield design featured space-age artwork and cosmic elements typical of the era, with the game's name suggesting extraterrestrial communication or cosmic connection.

As one of Gottlieb's early solid-state machines, Contact helped establish many of the features that would become standard in modern pinball, including electronic sound effects and more sophisticated scoring mechanisms. The game featured the classic Gottlieb four-flipper layout that was popular during this period, offering players multiple shot opportunities and engaging gameplay mechanics.

While not as well-known as some other machines of its era, Contact represents an important historical marker in pinball's evolution from electro-mechanical to electronic games. It serves as a testament to the industry's technological advancement and Gottlieb's adaptation to changing market demands during the late 1970s.