Step-Up

The Step-Up pinball machine is a rare and intriguing example of early electromechanical (EM) design from Genco Manufacturing Company, one of the pioneering manufacturers in the industry. Produced in 1946, this machine predates the development of modern pinball themes and art styles, making it a significant artifact for historians and enthusiasts alike. Its significance lies not only in its age but also in its mechanical complexity, showcasing the ingenuity and craftsmanship of early pinball designers.

The gameplay features that set Step-Up apart from other EM machines include its unique scoring system, which allows players to earn points through various bumpers (12 in total) scattered throughout the playfield. The machine's two kick-out holes add an element of unpredictability, sending balls flying off in unexpected directions. Perhaps most distinctive is the game's ability to award five balls per match-up, a feature that would become a hallmark of later pinball machines but was still a novelty at this stage of development.

Notably, the backglass of Step-Up lacks any visual representation of its name or theme, which is rare for pinball machines from this era. While the lack of art may seem unusual by today's standards, it speaks to the utilitarian design ethos that dominated early pinball manufacturing. This machine serves as a reminder of how far pinball has evolved in terms of both technology and aesthetic appeal.