Flip a Card

Flip a Card is a rare electro-mechanical pinball machine from Procedimientos Electromagnéticos de Tanteo y Color (Petaco, S.A.), a manufacturer from Madrid, Spain that operated between 1962 and 1977. This particular game is a Spanish-made copy of Gottlieb's 1970 machine of the same name, illustrating how Petaco adapted American designs for the European market.

The gameplay features two flippers, three pop bumpers, two slingshots, seven standup targets, and a single kick-out hole, typical for EM machines of this era. The theme centers on college life, happiness, music, and playing cards -- an unusual combination that adds to the game's charm. The backglass features animated light effects, with playing cards lighting up as you play, accompanied by a three-chime sound package, creating a lively atmosphere.

The design and art on Flip a Card are characteristic of EM machines of the period, with a wedge-shaped head backbox and a maximum displayed score of 9,999 points. While specific details about its designer remain unknown, this machine's blend of vintage charm, quirky theme, and status as a licensed copy of a well-known Gottlieb title makes it an interesting find for pinball enthusiasts and collectors.