Marbo
About This Machine
The Marbo, produced by Marbo Stimulator Co., Inc. of Hubbard, Ohio in 1932, is an early pure mechanical pinball machine that predates the electromechanical (EM) era and showcases the development of the game's fundamentals during its formative years.
The Marbo features a unique gameplay mechanism where turning the handle (made by the Advance Machine Company of Chicago) after inserting a coin resets the playfield by raising pins to push balls out of scoring pockets and lowering others to allow them to escape circular pin traps. This manual reset system allows for multiple plays for just one cent, with 5 balls per play.
The Marbo's design and aesthetic are characteristic of its era, with a painted metal case measuring 17 1/2 inches long, 9 inches wide, and 5 inches high. A small post on the bottom of the cabinet provides a slope to aid ball flow. No information is available regarding the machine's theme or designer, leaving enthusiasts to appreciate its historical significance and mechanical innovations rather than specific artistic or narrative elements.
Images (7)
Technical Details
- Notable Features:
- 5 balls for 1 cent. Turning the handle after inserting coin resets playfield by raising pins to push balls out of scoring pockets and also by lowering other pins to allow balls to escape the circular pin tra ps. Painted metal case measures 17 1/2 inches long, 9 inches wide, and 5 inches high. A small post on bottom of cabinet provides slope to the game.