Doodle Bug

The Doodle Bug, designed by Norm Clark with artwork by Christian Marche, was released in March 1971 by Williams Electronics, with a confirmed production run of 3,006 units. This single-player electro-mechanical game carries a cheerful 'Dancing - Happiness - Music' theme, and its add-a-ball counterpart was released as Williams' 1971 'Love Bug', with a 4-player version appearing as 1970's 'Dipsy Doodle'.

What truly sets the Doodle Bug apart is its engaging gameplay. Players get two flippers, five pop bumpers, two slingshots, five stand-up targets, a kick-out hole, a right outlane ball return gate, and an up-post between the flippers. The standout feature lies in the scoring animation below the playfield, where a captive ball repeatedly crosses a point-scoring rollover button, adding an extra layer of excitement. The game also has a distinctive design quirk: a gap between each flipper and the adjacent slingshot prevents cradling the ball with an energized flipper.

The Doodle Bug's art is bright and cheerful, capturing the playful optimism of early-1970s pinball. Sounds are classic EM fare: a small bell, a wooden box chime, and a knocker. Exceeding the maximum displayed score lights 'Over The Top' on the backglass for the remainder of the game, and the replay wheel tops out at 37 replays. The Doodle Bug remains an intriguing piece for pinball enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the heart of the electro-mechanical era.