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Top Card

Manufacturer: D. Gottlieb & Company (1931-1977) [Trade Name: Gottlieb]
Year: 1974
Date: August, 1974
Type: Electro-mechanical (EM)
Players: 1
Production: 3,100 units (confirmed)

About This Machine

Meet Top Card, a vintage electro-mechanical (EM) pinball machine from D. Gottlieb & Company, designed by Jeff Brenner and released in 1974. As one of the many iconic machines to emerge from the Golden Age of Pinball, Top Card represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of the game's design and playability. Its significance lies not only in its engaging gameplay but also in its influence on subsequent pinball designs.

Top Card's gameplay is where it truly shines, with an array of features that set it apart from its contemporaries. The machine boasts two flippers, three pop bumpers, four slingshots, 13 standup targets, and five star rollovers – a comprehensive arsenal designed to challenge players and reward skillful play. The maximum displayed point score is a respectable 99,990 points, while the replay wheel allows for up to 15 games per credit. Adding to the machine's charm are its three chimes, providing an auditory experience that complements the game's theme of cards and gambling.

Visually, Top Card exudes a nostalgic charm with its card-themed artwork, reminiscent of classic Las Vegas casinos. The design is straightforward yet effective in conveying the machine's core concept: players take on the role of gamblers trying to accumulate points by collecting virtual playing cards. Little is known about the specific inspirations or creative decisions behind Top Card's design, but it remains a beloved addition to any pinball collection due to its engaging gameplay and nostalgic charm.

Images (25)

Technical Details

Theme:
Cards/Gambling
Model Number:
362
Notable Features:
Flippers (2), Pop bumpers (3), Slingshots (4), Standup targets (13), Star rollovers (5). Maximum displayed point score is 99,990 points. Replay wheel maximum: 15 Sound: 3 chimes.

Credits

Designer:
Jeff Brenner
Artist:
Gordon Morison