Machine Description

Pinball Pool, released by Chicago Coin in 1969, represents a fascinating intersection of two popular arcade pastimes - pinball and billiards. During the late 1960s, when both pool halls and pinball arcades were significant social spaces, this machine capitalized on the natural synergy between these games of skill and physics.

The machine's design cleverly incorporated billiards themes, featuring a playfield that mimicked a pool table's green felt and likely included targets representing pool balls. The gameplay would have utilized standard pinball mechanics while incorporating pool-themed objectives and scoring systems, making it accessible to fans of both games. As an electro-mechanical machine of its era, it would have featured the characteristic chimes, bells, and mechanical score reels typical of late 1960s pinball technology.

While not necessarily a groundbreaking title in pinball history, Pinball Pool represents an important example of theme integration in classic pinball design. It emerged during a period when manufacturers were actively experimenting with creative themes to attract players, and the billiards concept would have resonated with the arcade-going audience of the time. The machine also reflects the broader cultural moment of the late 1960s, when pool halls remained popular social gathering spots despite facing increasing competition from other entertainment options.