Wagon Train

Wagon Train was an electro-mechanical pinball machine released by D. Gottlieb & Co. in 1971, capitalizing on America's enduring fascination with Western themes and the popularity of TV westerns from the 1950s and 60s. The machine's theme was inspired by the long-running television series of the same name, which had aired from 1957 to 1965, though it wasn't officially licensed merchandise.

The gameplay featured classic electro-mechanical elements typical of early 1970s pinball, including pop bumpers, drop targets, and spinning targets that represented various Western scenes and obstacles faced by pioneer wagon trains. The playfield artwork depicted covered wagons, frontier landscapes, and Western characters, maintaining Gottlieb's reputation for high-quality artwork and attention to detail during this era.

As one of many Western-themed pinball machines produced during the golden age of electro-mechanical pinball, Wagon Train represented the continuation of a popular genre that resonated with American players. The game's release coincided with a period when pinball manufacturers were creating increasingly sophisticated mechanical features, just years before the industry would transition to solid-state electronics.

While not considered one of Gottlieb's breakthrough titles, Wagon Train served as a solid example of themed electro-mechanical pinball design during a pivotal period in pinball history. The exact production numbers are not well documented, but like many machines of this era, surviving examples are now sought after by collectors who appreciate its historical significance and mechanical craftsmanship.