Top Score

Top Score, designed by Ed Krynski with art by Gordon Morison, was manufactured by Gottlieb in 1975. This two-player electro-mechanical machine, produced in a run of roughly 3,304 units, is a quintessential example of classic bowling-themed pinball design, capitalizing on the sports-theme trend of the period.

The gameplay features that make Top Score stand out include its dual flippers, allowing for greater player control and strategy. The layout also includes two pop bumpers, two slingshots, four standup targets, two kick-out holes, and a spinning target, creating a challenging yet rewarding experience. Two parallel lanes of serial rollovers (billed in the manufacturer's flyer as the 'Tantalizing Pin Ball Lane') add an extra layer of complexity to the gameplay. Additionally, the mechanical backbox animation featuring bowling balls adds a fun and thematic touch.

The design and art on Top Score are characteristic of 1970s pinball aesthetics, with bright colors and bold graphics. The machine's half-moon credit window and end-of-ball bonus were also typical of Gottlieb designs from this era. The four-player version of this game was released as Gottlieb's '"300".'