Bronco

The Bronco, designed by Ed Krynski with artwork by Gordon Morison, was released in March 1977 by Gottlieb and is a significant addition to the American West-themed pinball machines of its era. Produced as the industry was beginning its transition from electro-mechanical to solid-state machines, this four-player EM game showcases Gottlieb's expertise in creating engaging gameplay, and with a confirmed production run of 9,454 units it was one of the company's bigger sellers of the period. A two-player version of the same design was released as Gottlieb's 1977 'Mustang'.

Key features of the Bronco include two flippers, three pop bumpers, and a trio of star rollovers. The machine also boasts kicker lanes, kick-out holes, and a 3-bank drop target, with an end-of-ball bonus and no slingshots - a combination that provides players with multiple pathways to score points. Interestingly, the maximum displayed point score varies by market: 99,990 points per player in standard versions, and 199,990 points per player in a special version built for export to Germany, which used 100,000-point relays indicated by illuminating the player lights above the score reels.

The Bronco's American West theme and its release during a transitional period in pinball history make it an interesting piece for collectors and enthusiasts. The use of three chimes and a knocker as sound effects adds to the machine's nostalgic charm, transporting players back to the heyday of EM pinballs.