Universe

The Universe pinball machine, designed by Wayne Neyens with art by Roy Parker, was manufactured by Gottlieb in October 1959. As an outer-space-themed electro-mechanical (EM) pinball, it showcases the evolving creativity and playability of pinball designs during the late 1950s.

One of the key features that makes the Universe unique is its mechanical backbox animation - two rockets circle the Earth, and each time a rocket reaches the moon, a "trip" is scored, up to a maximum of 19 trips even though the backglass seems to suggest a higher number is possible. This was a notable innovation for its time, demonstrating how pinball machines could engage players with more than just sound effects and static art. The gameplay itself offers challenging and rewarding experiences through the use of four flippers, three pop bumpers, two bullseye targets, two slingshots, and a gobble hole. Players must navigate the ball through a variety of obstacles to achieve high scores.

The backglass carries Gottlieb's famous phrase, "Amusement Pinballs, as American as Baseball and Hot Dogs!" While specific details of the playfield and backglass artwork beyond the rocket animation aren't documented here, the game's scoring "trips" to the moon add an extra layer of strategy for players seeking high scores, making it an intriguing piece for collectors and enthusiasts alike.