Machine Description

Control Tower, released by D. Gottlieb & Co. in the mid-1970s, represented one of the company's later electro-mechanical entries during a pivotal period in pinball history. The machine captured the excitement of aviation and air traffic control, a theme that resonated with the public during the golden age of commercial air travel.

The playfield design featured aircraft-themed artwork and multiple targets representing different aspects of airport operations. As was typical for electro-mechanical machines of this era, Control Tower utilized mechanical score reels, chimes, and bells to create its atmosphere. The gameplay focused on hitting various targets that simulated guiding aircraft to safe landings, with bonus multipliers and special scoring features activated through skilled shot combinations.

While not necessarily one of Gottlieb's most famous titles, Control Tower represented the solid engineering and reliability that made the company's electro-mechanical machines highly regarded by operators. The theme choice was particularly relevant for its time, as commercial aviation was experiencing significant growth and airports were becoming increasingly complex operations that captured public imagination.