Machine Description

Released during the mid-1970s golden age of electro-mechanical pinball, Gottlieb's 'Soccer' capitalized on the growing popularity of international football in North America. The machine represented one of several sports-themed tables produced during this era, as manufacturers sought to attract players through familiar athletic themes.

The Soccer pinball machine featured classic EM gameplay elements including pop bumpers designed to look like soccer balls, kick-out holes representing goals, and drop targets arranged to simulate defensive players. The playfield artwork showcased dynamic soccer action scenes with players in motion, utilizing the bold color schemes characteristic of 1970s pinball art. The score reels and chimes provided the authentic electro-mechanical feedback that players of this era came to expect.

As one of the last electro-mechanical machines produced before the industry's transition to solid-state electronics, Soccer represents an important milestone in pinball history. While not as widely distributed as some other Gottlieb titles of the period, it maintains a following among collectors who appreciate its pure electro-mechanical engineering and sports theme. The machine's relative scarcity today makes it a noteworthy piece for enthusiasts of classic EM pinball.