Home > Machines > Relay (Senior)

Relay (Senior)

Manufacturer: D. Gottlieb & Company (1931-1977) [Trade Name: Gottlieb]
Year: 1934
Date: April, 1934
Type: Electro-mechanical (EM)
Players: 1

About This Machine

The Relay (Senior) pinball machine, manufactured by Gottlieb in 1934, represents one of the earliest examples of electro-mechanical pinball design. As such, it holds significant importance in the history of the game, showcasing the evolution from early electromechanical contraptions to more complex and sophisticated machines that followed. The Relay (Senior) is a rare piece of vintage pinball equipment, making it highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.

One of the key features that sets this machine apart is its innovative use of ball traps and release mechanisms. The "Relay Hole" allows for strategic gameplay, as players must carefully manage trapped balls to maximize their score potential. This early example of game design demonstrates a level of complexity and challenge that would become a hallmark of later pinball machines. Additionally, the operator's ability to adjust gameplay settings between games adds an extra layer of strategy and replayability.

Despite its age, the Relay (Senior) still boasts some notable features, including a battery-powered bell and a relatively compact playfield size for its era, measuring 49 inches long by 23 inches wide. Unfortunately, due to limited information available on this machine, there is no clear indication of its original artwork or theme. Nonetheless, its early design and innovative gameplay mechanics make it an intriguing piece of pinball history that continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors today.

Images (29)

Technical Details

Notable Features:
Balls falling into Relay Traps are held there. A ball falling into the Relay Hole releases the trapped balls to roll into a higher score pocket. The operator can option the game to either carry-over all unreleased balls to the next game, or allow all balls to clear the playfield upon insertion of coin. Game is advertised as 49 inches long by 23 inches wide. Has battery and bell.

Credits