Home > Machines > Old Chicago

Old Chicago

Manufacturer: Bally Manufacturing Corporation (1931-1983) [Trade Name: Bally]
Year: 1976
Date: April, 1976
Type: Electro-mechanical (EM)
Players: 4
Production: 7,155 units (confirmed)

About This Machine

The Old Chicago pinball machine, designed by Greg Kmiec and manufactured by Bally in 1976, showcases many classic electro-mechanical features of its era. The machine's historical theme depicts 1920s-30s Chicago gangster lore, with backglass art referencing figures like John Dillinger and the St. Valentine's Day Massacre, giving the game a distinctive, immersive layout.

The gameplay of Old Chicago is centered around a 5-bank drop target, a spinning target, and two kick-out holes, which work together to challenge players in achieving high scores. Two flippers allow for precision control over the ball, while five pop bumpers add an extra layer of excitement. An end-of-ball bonus rewards sustained play, and a buzzer briefly sounds whenever a player's score exceeds 99,990 points, adding a distinctive audible flourish late in a good game.

The Old Chicago's design and art are notable for their attention to historical detail, immersing players in the city's gangster-era past. Unfortunately, not much additional information is available on this specific game, making it all the more intriguing to enthusiasts seeking to learn more about its development and operation.

Images (51)

Technical Details

Theme:
Historical
Model Number:
1042
Notable Features:
Flippers (2), Pop bumpers (5), Standup targets (3), Kick-out holes (2), 5-bank drop targets (1), Spinning target (1). End-of-ball bonus. No slingshots. When a player's score exceeds 99,990 points, a buzzer temporarily sounds. Maximum displayed point score depends on the version: Early production Over The Top games show 99,990 points per player. Modified production games show 199,990 points per player. Replay wheel maximum: 25 Sound: 3 chimes, knocker, "100,000" point buzzer

Credits

Designer:
Greg Kmiec
Artist:
Dave Christensen, John Youssi

Documentation

  • Coin Door Schematic - Type #10 with 2 Chutes
    262 KB
    Download
  • Manual (no schematics)
    2 MB
    Download
  • Playfield Chart from 1976 Parts Catalog
    615 KB
    Download
  • Schematic Diagram (continuous)
    4 MB
    Download
  • Schematic Diagram (paginated)
    342 KB
    Download

Other Files

  • Suggested Score Cards
    141 KB
    Download
  • Time Delay Circuit - Explanation and Adjustments
    150 KB
    Download