The Oval Auto Cricket
About This Machine
The Oval Auto Cricket is a rare and enigmatic gem in the world of electro-mechanical pinball machines. Its exact origins are shrouded in mystery, with no manufacturer or designer credited on its exterior. Despite this lack of documentation, the machine's unique design and gameplay mechanics make it an fascinating artifact for enthusiasts to uncover.
One of the most striking features of the Oval Auto Cricket is its innovative use of a swiveling handle on the front of the cabinet, which allows players to hit the ball with either end of the flipper. This clever design element adds a layer of complexity and challenge to gameplay, as players must adapt their technique to navigate the ball through the playfield. The machine's 1-cent play mechanism is also noteworthy, making it an accessible and affordable option for players in its era.
The Oval Auto Cricket's sports theme, centered around the popular cricket game, adds a touch of nostalgia and cultural interest to this rare pinball machine. The inclusion of a bubble level attached to the lower apron, typically used in architectural or surveying applications, is another intriguing aspect of the design. Its purpose and significance in the context of this pinball machine remain unknown, leaving room for speculation and further research among enthusiasts.
Images (4)
Technical Details
- Theme:
- Sports - Cricket
- Notable Features:
- 1-cent play. Flipper (1), Trap holes (18), Free Play hole (1). Bubble level attached to lower apron. Cabinet measures 37 inches long, 22 inches wide, and 38 inches high. The flipper pivots at its center to allow the swiveling handle on front of cabinet to hit the ball with either end. Green light at top of playfield signals player to shoot ball. Movable yellow wicket below flipper indicates end of game. The lower apron shows this information: DIRECTIONS. PLACE PENNY IN SLOT. PUSH KNOB RIGHT IN. WAIT FOR GREEN LIGHT BEFORE BOWLING. KEEP PLAYING UNTIL OUT. WHEN WICKET WILL FALL. The Free Play hole at bottom of playfield shows the words RETURN TO BOWLER.