Paradise

The Paradise pinball machine, designed by Ed Krynski with art by Roy Parker, was manufactured by D. Gottlieb & Company in 1965. This electromechanical (EM) two-player game takes players on a Hawaiian-themed journey, complete with mechanical backbox animation that brings the island atmosphere to life: a hula girl dances in the backglass, adding an extra layer of charm to this retro pin.

Gameplay-wise, Paradise boasts a number of features typical of its era, including two flippers, four pop bumpers, and two slingshots. The machine's replay wheel allows players to compete for high scores, with a maximum displayed point score of 1,999 points per player. The use of relay kick-out holes adds an extra level of complexity to the game, requiring players to think strategically about their shots. Meanwhile, the projection roto unit under the playfield creates a dynamic visual effect that enhances the overall playing experience.

Paradise holds a specific place in pinball history: according to the book All About Pinball, it and its add-a-ball counterpart, Pleasure Isle, were the first playfields designed with flipper return lanes, though Gottlieb rescheduled production so that another game, Bank-A-Ball, would actually reach the market first with that feature. With 2,100 confirmed units produced, Paradise remains a sought-after collector's item for enthusiasts of vintage EM pinball.