Berlin Or Bust

"Berlin Or Bust" is a rare and intriguing example of a pure mechanical pinball machine from Advertising Craft Ltd. of Wellington, New Zealand. While its exact year of production remains unknown, this unique piece of pinball history offers a glimpse into the early days of the industry. Its aviation and military theme would have been particularly relevant during World War II, making it an interesting find for collectors and enthusiasts.

Gameplay on "Berlin Or Bust" is characterized by its use of marbles to represent different branches of service - Navy (Ship), Air Force (Plane), and Army (Tank) are each represented by two marbles of the same color. A key feature of this machine is the penalty scoring system, where certain pockets will deduct points depending on which branch lands in them. This adds an extra layer of strategy to gameplay, as players must weigh the risks and rewards of targeting different areas.

The design and art on "Berlin Or Bust" are notable for their simplicity and effectiveness. The use of bold colors and clean lines creates a striking visual impact, while the aviation and military theme is executed with attention to detail. Unfortunately, little is known about the machine's designer or its production history, making this an even more fascinating find for those interested in pinball's early days.