New Steel Ball Three

The New Steel Ball Three, produced by Shyvers Coin Automatic Machine Company in 1934, is one of the earliest pinball machines in history. As a Pure Mechanical (PM) pinball machine, it predates the development of electronic components that would later become synonymous with modern pinball. The New Steel Ball Three represents an early step in the evolution of the game, demonstrating how early innovators adapted and refined existing technology to create an engaging experience for players.

The gameplay features of the New Steel Ball Three are characteristic of its time period. Players launch steel balls into play using a manual plunger on a simple, gravity-driven table, with no flippers to redirect the ball's path -- flippers would not appear in pinball for over a decade. The machine's objective is straightforward: score points by navigating the balls through various obstacles to reach the bottom drain. What makes this machine unique is its mechanical simplicity, which was a precursor to the more complex electromechanical designs that would follow in later years.

The New Steel Ball Three's design and artwork are remarkably minimalist for a pinball machine of its era. The cabinet features simple wooden trim and an unadorned front panel, with no elaborate art or theming to speak of. In fact, this machine does not have any notable aspects of design, art, or theme that would set it apart from other early pinball machines.