Plus or Minus

Here's a glimpse into a piece of pinball history that predates the modern game we know and love. The Plus or Minus, manufactured by Bally in 1936, is an early electromechanical (EM) payout machine from the company's formative years. As such, it holds historical importance in the development of the game, showcasing the innovative spirit of its creators.

Gameplay-wise, the Plus or Minus offers a very different experience from later pinball. Like all machines of its era, it predates the 1947 invention of the flipper, so play relied on the skill of the initial plunge and careful handling of the machine rather than flipper control. As a payout machine, it was designed for wagering rather than the feature-rich scoring games that would come decades later.

One notable aspect of this machine is its age. Built during a time when pinball was still finding its footing as a form of entertainment, the Plus or Minus represents the game's early experimentation phase. Its existence highlights the rapid evolution of the game across the 20th century. Unfortunately, there isn't much information available on its design, art, or theme beyond its designation as an electro-mechanical payout machine from Bally Manufacturing Corporation.