Machine Description

The 'Flipper' pinball machine, released by D. Gottlieb & Co. in 1960, holds a unique place in pinball history as one of the machines that helped standardize modern pinball gameplay mechanics. During a time when pinball was still establishing its core identity, 'Flipper' embraced a clean, straightforward design philosophy that emphasized player skill over chance.

The machine's design featured two bottom flippers (which by this time had become an industry standard), pop bumpers, and various scoring targets arranged in a classic playfield layout. The art package utilized a simple but effective color scheme typical of the early 1960s aesthetic, with the backglass featuring bold lettering and geometric patterns that were characteristic of the era's design sensibilities.

While not necessarily revolutionary in its features, 'Flipper' represented the mature evolution of electro-mechanical pinball design, incorporating reliable components and proven gameplay elements that would influence machines for years to come. The machine's durability and straightforward maintenance requirements made it a popular choice for operators, while its balanced difficulty curve appealed to both casual players and skilled enthusiasts.

Production numbers for 'Flipper' are not definitively known, but the machine was manufactured during a period when Gottlieb was one of the dominant forces in the pinball industry, producing thousands of units for distribution worldwide. Today, 'Flipper' serves as an important reference point for understanding the development of pinball during the electro-mechanical era.