Kicker

The Kicker, crafted by Don Hooker in 1934, holds a special place in the annals of pinball history as one of the earliest electro-mechanical (EM) machines to be produced. As such, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of the game's early days, when innovative mechanics and design were still being experimented with.

Gameplay on the Kicker revolves around the titular playfield kicker feature, which allowed for added challenge and unpredictability by propelling the ball with automatic force -- a mechanism Hooker developed at the request of an operator, reportedly before rival Allied Amusement had similar features on their games. There were no flippers on this early machine; instead, players relied on skillful plunging and the kicker's automatic action to keep the ball in play. Hooker himself recalled making three or four such games around this time, though details of most have been lost.

Unfortunately, little else is known about the Kicker beyond its technical specifications and creation date. As such, we're left to appreciate its significance within the context of pinball history rather than as a fully realized piece with a rich backstory. Nevertheless, the Kicker remains an important artifact in the development of the game, offering a glimpse into the creative experiments that defined the era's pioneering spirit.