Big Inning

Big Inning, manufactured by Bally Manufacturing Corporation, is a rare electro-mechanical (EM) pinball machine that showcases the early days of pinball's sports-themed gameplay. As one of the earliest known baseball-themed pinball machines, it provides a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of pinball design and play mechanics.

The machine features several innovative elements, including automatic ball pitching, which was a novelty in its time. The 5-cent play price and timed game duration (four minutes or three outs) were also standard for EM games from this era. Notably, lights on the playfield and backglass track the movement of players around the bases, creating an immersive experience that simulates the excitement of real baseball.

The design and artwork of Big Inning reflect the classic aesthetic of 1930s pinball machines, with simple yet effective graphics and a compact playfield layout. Unfortunately, details about its designer and exact production year are not available, leaving us to appreciate this vintage gem for its historical significance and pioneering gameplay features.