Confucius Say

Confucius Say is a rare and enigmatic electro-mechanical (EM) pinball machine manufactured by Rotor Table Games Co., Inc. of New York between 1935 and 1936. As one of the earliest known pinball machines, it holds significant importance in the history of the game. Unfortunately, much about this machine remains a mystery, including its exact year of production and the identity of its designer.

What is known is that Confucius Say features a unique rotatable playfield under a stationary glass, allowing players to keep their drinks within reach while still enjoying the gameplay experience. The playfield itself was one of several interchangeable options available in the cabinet, demonstrating an early example of modular design in pinball machines. Additionally, the machine boasts nine bumpers and a single kicker, providing a challenging yet rewarding gameplay experience for players.

Notably, Confucius Say operated using No. 6 dry cell batteries as its original power source, a common practice during this era of pinball history. While little is known about the machine's theme or artwork, its unique design features make it an intriguing find for pinball enthusiasts and historians alike. The scarcity of information surrounding Confucius Say only adds to its mystique, making it a fascinating piece of pinball history that continues to spark curiosity among collectors and researchers.