Mardi Gras

The Mardi Gras pinball machine is an early electro-mechanical release from Genco Manufacturing Company, produced starting May 1948, only months after flippers debuted in the pinball industry. With 1,792 units confirmed produced, it captures the excitement of that pivotal transitional moment when flipper-equipped games were beginning to replace flipperless designs.

Gameplay on Mardi Gras is characterized by two flippers and nine passive bumpers, which provide a challenging but rewarding experience for players. The machine's maximum displayed score of 2,500,000 points adds to its allure. One notable feature is the single kick-out hole, which requires players to carefully manage their shots.

The Mardi Gras machine's design and artwork are carnival-themed, capturing the vibrant spirit of the era. Its colorful art and compact, single-player cabinet evoke a sense of nostalgia for pinball enthusiasts. Little is documented about the designer behind this machine, but its combination of gameplay mechanics and artistic style make it an intriguing find for collectors and historians alike.