Subway

The Genco Manufacturing Company's 1934 "Subway" is a rare and fascinating electro-mechanical (EM) pinball machine that offers a glimpse into the early days of the game. As one of the earliest surviving EM pinballs from the 1930s, it holds significant importance in the history of the sport, predating the invention of flippers by well over a decade. The "Subway" is a testament to the innovative designs and technological advancements of Harvey Heiss, its creator.

Gameplay on the "Subway" involves traditional pre-flipper EM mechanisms, including bumpers and drain lanes, although the exact layout and rules are not well-documented. What makes this machine unique lies in its age and relative obscurity – it's a time capsule of pinball's formative years, when games were still experimenting with novel features and player interactions. Within thirty days of its release, it was remade in a larger version as Genco's 'Subway Special', distinguishable by the shape of its tilt receptacle.

While information on the "Subway" is limited due to its age and rarity, it's clear that this machine offers pinball enthusiasts an opportunity to connect with the sport's earliest history. Few machines from this era have survived in such good condition, providing a tangible link to the pioneering designers who shaped the game into what we know today. For collectors and historians, the "Subway" represents a valuable piece of pinball heritage, worthy of preservation and study.