Playmates

Gottlieb's 'Playmates' pinball machine, released in 1967, exemplifies the vibrant and playful aesthetic of 1960s electro-mechanical pinball design. This single-player machine emerged during a golden age of pinball when Gottlieb dominated the market with their reliable and entertaining games.

The machine featured classic electro-mechanical components, including mechanical score reels and relay-based logic systems. Its playfield design incorporated traditional elements like pop bumpers, kick-out holes, and standard flippers, while its artwork reflected the era's light-hearted approach to entertainment with colorful graphics and playful character illustrations typical of the late 1960s aesthetic.

Playmates was produced during a significant period in pinball history, just before the advent of solid-state electronics would revolutionize the industry. The game represented the mature evolution of electro-mechanical pinball technology, showcasing Gottlieb's mastery of reliable mechanical systems and engaging gameplay mechanics. While not one of Gottlieb's most famous titles, it serves as an excellent example of late 1960s pinball engineering and design philosophy.

The machine was manufactured during a time when pinball still faced legal challenges in some jurisdictions, though these were gradually being overcome. Its family-friendly theme and straightforward gameplay helped contribute to pinball's increasingly mainstream acceptance as legitimate entertainment rather than gambling devices.