Space Gambler

Space Gambler, a 1978 solid-state electronic pinball machine from Playmatic of Barcelona, Spain, was probably the first solid-state game produced by the company, marking a notable step in its move from electromechanical to solid-state design.

The gameplay features on Space Gambler are characteristic of its era, with two flippers, two pop bumpers, four mushroom bumpers, two slingshots, four drop targets, three standup targets, three rollover buttons, and a spinning target providing a challenging and dynamic experience for players. The game offers 3 or 5 ball play options. Its outer-space and fantasy theme is reinforced by flashing lights on a 3D "tunnel" toy on the backglass.

A distinctive aspect of Space Gambler's design is its backglass artwork, which depicts elements evocative of the Star Wars films, including droid-like characters and TIE fighter-style spacecraft, alongside a helmeted figure previously seen on Gottlieb's 1976 'Target Alpha.' Little information is available about the machine's specific designer, but for pinball enthusiasts interested in Playmatic's transition to solid-state technology, Space Gambler offers a unique window into that era.