Miss Universo (3 Ladies)

Miss Universo (3 Ladies) is a rare and intriguing example of early electro-mechanical pinball design from Industria (Electromecanica) de Recreativos S.A. (INDER) of Madrid, Spain. As one of three related versions in INDER's Miss Universo line, it's a hidden gem for collectors and enthusiasts seeking to uncover the history of pre-solid-state pinball.

The gameplay on Miss Universo is characterized by its combination of flippers, pop bumpers, slingshots, standup targets, and a horseshoe lane. The machine features a plastic playfield surface with numbered targets and rollovers that light up corresponding numbers on the backglass, adding an extra layer of challenge to players trying to maximize their scores. Notably, a "Last Ball in Play" light (Ultima Bola) on the backglass provides a sense of urgency as players compete for the highest score.

Despite its Beauty Pageant naming and theme, the artwork notably does not depict a pageant in progress -- the three women shown on the backglass, and the single woman seated on the planet Saturn on the lower playfield, are each portrayed as individuals rather than as pageant contestants. Though little is known about the designer or exact year of production, Miss Universo remains a fascinating example of early pinball design from Spain, and its rarity makes it a coveted find for collectors who appreciate the mechanical charm of vintage electromechanical machines.