Captain Hook
About This Machine
Captain Hook, designed by Ed Cebula and manufactured by Game Plan in April 1985, is a solid state electronic pinball machine that embodies the swashbuckling spirit of pirate legend. Its namesake is the villain from J. M. Barrie's Peter Pan. Produced in a confirmed run of just 450 units near the end of Game Plan's existence (the company operated from 1978 to 1985), it is a scarce piece of the company's catalog.
One of Captain Hook's standout aspects is its playfield layout. With three flippers, two pop bumpers, two slingshots, eight stand-up targets, two 4-bank drop target banks (each with a stand-up target hidden behind it), and a spinning target, the game offers an engaging variety of shots for players to tackle. It could be set for 3-ball or 5-ball play and was adjustable for replay, add-a-ball, or novelty operation, running on the Game Plan MPU-2 board with software by Rehman Merchant.
The art and design of Captain Hook are classic representations of the era's pinball aesthetic. Artist Larry M. Blazek created the artwork for the playfield, plastics, and apron, while Tom Schmelzer painted the backglass. Its combination of gameplay mechanics, nautical theme, and low production numbers makes it an attractive addition to any enthusiast's collection.
Images (11)
Technical Details
- Theme:
- Fictional - Pirates
- Model Number:
- 780
- MPU:
- Game Plan MPU-2
- Notable Features:
- Flippers (3), Pop bumpers (2), Slingshots (2), Standup targets (8), 4-bank drop targets (2), Spinning target (1). Behind each drop target bank is a standup target. 3 or 5 ball play.
Credits
- Designer:
- Ed Cebula
- Artist:
- Larry M. Blazek, Tom Schmelzer
- Software:
- Rehman Merchant