L'Etoile
About This Machine
This enigmatic pinball machine, referred to as "L", is a rare and intriguing specimen that has piqued the interest of collectors and historians alike. As a Pure Mechanical (PM) game from an unknown manufacturer, its exact origins and production date remain a mystery. Despite this, the machine's design and features suggest it may be one of the earliest examples of pinball innovation.
The gameplay is characterized by 12 trap holes scattered throughout the "Figure 8" playfield layout, creating a thrilling experience for players as they navigate their ball through the maze-like design. The unique arrangement of yellow suns with rays at the top and bottom trap holes adds to the game's visual appeal. Each of the other 10 trap holes features a distinctive star pattern in various colors – orange, green, blue, or gold – some of which boast an added "comet trail" effect.
The art and design of this machine are just as captivating as its gameplay. The subtle use of color and texture creates a striking visual contrast, with the white playfield background allowing the intricate trap hole decorations to take center stage. The mysterious presence of a small metal plate on the right side of the lower apron only adds to the game's mystique, hinting at possible clues to its manufacturer or history. As collectors continue to study and research this elusive machine, it remains an exciting discovery for those fascinated by pinball's rich heritage.
Technical Details
- Notable Features:
- Trap holes (12). "Figure 8" playfield layout. The name od this game appears as orange cursive writing in the center playfield, The playfield background color is white. The topmost and bottommost trap hole each has a yellow sun painted around it abut only the top sun has yellow rays. The other trap holes have either a 5-point or a 6-point star painted around each, in either orange, green, blue, or gold. The gold stars have a "comet trail". The coin slot is on the far left end of the cabinet front. A small and rectangular metal plate appears nailed to the right side of the lower apron but we could not read the writing on it in the pictured that we saw. The left side of the apron had a partially peeled adhesive sticker, probably the instructions.