Paradise

Paradise, created by D. Gottlieb & Company in 1940, is an example of early electro-mechanical (EM) pinball design, designed by Harry Mabs with artwork by Roy Parker. This is a flipperless, single-player machine built around an animal and bird theme, characteristic of the artistry emerging in pinball during that era.

Key gameplay features include 17 passive bumpers, a common design element in early EM machines that has since become rare in modern pinball. The layout and rules of Paradise are characteristic of the period, with players aiming to accumulate points by navigating the ball through various obstacles and scoring opportunities, all without the aid of flippers, which had not yet been invented.

Paradise stands out for its charming bird-themed artwork, which adorns both the playfield and cabinet. This is a notable example of early pinball design, when artists were experimenting with visual elements that would become hallmarks of the industry. With its historical significance and striking artistry, Paradise remains an intriguing piece for anyone interested in the evolution of pinball from its earliest, flipperless days.