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See-Saw

Manufacturer: Success Games Company, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA (1932-1934)
Year: 1932
Date: June, 1932
Type: Pure Mechanical (PM)
Players: 1

About This Machine

The See-Saw, manufactured by Success Games Company in 1932, holds a significant place in the history of pinball. As one of the earliest pinball machines, it showcases the evolution of gameplay and mechanics during the early days of the industry. The machine's unique design and features demonstrate the innovative spirit of its creator, Herbert G. Breitenstein.

A key aspect of See-Saw's gameplay is its Pure Mechanical (PM) mechanism, which relies on gravity and manual manipulation to control ball movement. Players can choose between 5 balls for 1 cent or 10 balls for 5 cents, adding an element of strategy to the game. The machine's most distinctive feature is its five trap holes, each equipped with a spiral-shaped guide that requires the ball to loop around before landing in the hole. This clever design adds an extra layer of challenge and skill to the game.

The See-Saw's tilting device, controlled by a lever on the front cabinet, allows players to adjust the pitch of the playfield. By raising or lowering the upper end of the playfield while keeping the lower end stationary, players can alter the trajectory of the balls in pursuit of higher scores. This innovative feature demonstrates Breitenstein's attention to detail and commitment to creating an engaging gameplay experience. As a rare example of a pre-1934 pinball machine, the See-Saw is a prized find for collectors and enthusiasts of early pinball history.

Technical Details

Notable Features:
5 balls for 1 cent or 10 balls for 5 cents. Five trap holes each have a spiral-shaped ball guide around them, requiring the ball to loop the spiral to land in the hole. The player controls the pitch of the playfield by manipulating the "tilting device" using the lever on the front of the cabinet. This raises and lowers the upper end of the playfield while the lower end does not also move, thus changing the pitch.

Credits

Designer:
Herbert G. Breitenstein