Bolo

The Bolo, manufactured by Pacent Novelty Manufacturing Company in 1936, is a rare and fascinating piece of electro-mechanical (EM) pinball history. As one of the earliest known bowling-themed pinball machines, it represents a unique blend of sports and gameplay that was ahead of its time. The Bolo's design, credited to Raymond Kay, showcases innovative features such as two balls for play at 5 cents, making it an exciting experience for players.

The Bolo's gameplay is characterized by scoring bumpers (10 in total) and drop lanes (2), adding a thrilling element to the game. However, what truly sets the Bolo apart are its "bowling gutters," which were actually longoutholes designed to be difficult to navigate. The manufacturer proudly promoted this feature as "the biggest outs ever placed on any game," stating that players loved the challenge it presented. This unorthodox design choice makes the Bolo a standout in pinball history.

The Bolo's battery-powered operation and compact size (advertised as 42 inches long by 22 inches wide) made it an attractive option for operators looking to add a unique attraction to their establishments. The manufacturer even claimed that up to five people could play simultaneously, making the Bolo one of the most social pinball experiences of its time.