Old Faithful

Old Faithful, manufactured by Gottlieb in 1949, holds a specific place in pinball history: it was the first game from D. Gottlieb & Company to feature the non-projection replay unit with a numbered replay wheel visible through a square window on the backglass. The machine's design and features reflect the era's technical limitations and artistic sensibilities.

Old Faithful boasts a gameplay experience driven by its electro-mechanical components. Players control two flippers to navigate the ball through the playfield, which includes six passive bumpers and two pop bumpers that reward strategic play. Dual outlanes on either side of the machine add an extra layer of challenge, requiring players to time their shots carefully to avoid losing the ball. A maximum replay wheel score of 26 provides a sense of accomplishment for skilled players.

The American Places theme takes its name from Yellowstone's famous geyser, known for the reliability of its eruptions. Interestingly, little is known about Harry Mabs' design process or any specific inspirations behind this machine's creation. Nonetheless, its place in pinball history as the debut of Gottlieb's numbered replay wheel makes it a valuable piece for enthusiasts to study and play.