Neighbors

Neighbors, manufactured by Mills Novelty Company in 1936, holds a significant place in the history of electromechanical (EM) pinball machines. As one of the earliest pinball machines produced during this period, Neighbors showcases the early development of the game's core mechanics and features that would become standard in later models.

The machine boasts several notable gameplay features, including its ability to play with 10 balls for a mere five cents. The playfield is scattered with trap holes (14) that add an element of challenge and unpredictability to the game. A free-play hole located at the bottom of the playfield, below the out troughs, allows players to restart their game without needing to insert more coins. Additionally, when two balls are in adjacent holes, a light illuminates, indicating another unique feature of Neighbors.

A notable aspect of this machine is its design and art, with a very short backbox that reflects the minimalist aesthetic often associated with early pinball machines. Unfortunately, little is known about the game's designer or theme, leaving enthusiasts to appreciate its historical significance and innovative gameplay features. As one of the earliest Mills Novelty Company productions, Neighbors remains an important piece in the evolution of electromechanical pinball machines.