Three Point

The Three Point pinball machine, manufactured by Chicago Vending Company in 1934, holds a special place in the history of pinball. As one of the earliest known mechanical pinball machines, it predates the more familiar electromechanical (EM) and solid-state designs that followed. This pure mechanical (PM) design showcases the ingenuity of early pinball inventors, who had to rely on manual mechanisms and basic physics to create gameplay.

Key features of the Three Point include its three-level tiered playfield, which was a novelty at the time, and two spiral habitrail tunnels that add an element of challenge and excitement. What sets this game apart is its unique scoring system: upon starting each ball, three score reels in the lower playfield spin and stop to reveal three point values. The player must then land a ball on each tier's corresponding pocket, matching the value displayed by the score reels. This innovative mechanic requires strategy and precision, making it an appealing challenge for pinball enthusiasts.

The design and art of the Three Point are notable for their simplicity and restraint, reflecting the primitive yet effective aesthetic of early pinball machines. There is no discernible theme or artwork beyond the functional elements necessary to create gameplay. Interestingly, little information is available about this machine's designer or any notable production runs. Nevertheless, its historical significance and unique mechanics make it a fascinating piece for collectors and historians of pinball to study and appreciate.