Olympic Pool
About This Machine
The Olympic Pool, manufactured by Williams in 1956, is a notable addition to the realm of electro-mechanical pinball machines. As one of several similar billiards-themed games released around this time, it stands out for its innovative mechanisms and scoring system. The machine's design allows for multiple players to compete simultaneously, with options for singles or doubles play, making it an early example of a multiplayer pinball experience.
The Olympic Pool's gameplay is characterized by its bonus build-up and progressive high-scoring features. Players can accumulate individual bonuses, which are "remembered" throughout the game, adding an element of strategy to the classic pinball formula. The machine also boasts an 'Olympic' hole that catches the ball and kicks it back onto the playfield for another attempt at scoring. This unique feature is accompanied by illuminated bumpers indicating bonus levels, creating a dynamic visual experience.
The Olympic Pool's design and art are typical of mid-20th century pinball machines, with clean lines and minimal decorations. Its theme and artwork focus on billiards, featuring imagery related to the sport. Although relatively unknown compared to its contemporaries, the Olympic Pool remains an interesting piece in the history of pinball, particularly for enthusiasts of early electro-mechanical games.
Images (6)
Technical Details
- Theme:
- Billiards
- Model Number:
- 169
- Notable Features:
- 10 cents for 1 player or 20 cents for 2-players. Kick-out hole (1). The flyer indicates playing doubles as an option for a 4-player game. The ones and tens digits of backbox score displays are dummy score reels. Very similar to Williams' 1956 'Score Pool' and United's 1956 'Hi-Score Pool' but has additional mechanisms to provide 'bonus build-up' and 'progressive high scoring' options. An 'Olympic' hole at top of playfield cat ches the ball and kicks it back onto the playfield for an attempt to score again. It usually aims at the 500 point hole. Bumpers illuminate to indicate bonus level. Individual bonus levels acquired by player are 'remembered' for each player. Game is over after 10 balls have been scored.