South Seas
About This Machine
The South Seas pinball machine, manufactured by United Manufacturing Company starting in May 1956, is a single-player electro-mechanical bingo machine featuring 25 trap holes across the playfield, along with diagonal scoring and an 8-balls-per-game format.
Gameplay on South Seas is defined by its use of a single card display and diagonal scorekeeping, both hallmarks of the bingo pinball genre. A distinctive feature is the selection option accessible via a knob on the coin door: if purchased by the operator, players can select a lit number on the backglass before shooting their 4th or 5th ball, adding a strategic wagering element characteristic of bingo-style machines.
The exact designer of South Seas is not documented, and specific theme details for this bingo release are limited beyond its technical specifications. As with many bingo machines of the era, its appeal lay primarily in its wagering-style mechanics rather than an elaborate visual theme.
Images (5)
Technical Details
- Notable Features:
- Trap holes (25). 1 Card, Diagonal scores, 8 Balls next game. Player can rotate knob on coin door to select from any lit "selection feature" in backglass if these features are purchased: • Select a lit number before shooting 4th ball. • Select a lit number before shooting 5th ball.