Fiesta

The Fiesta pinball machine, designed by Harry Mabs with artwork by George Molentin, was released by Williams in December 1959. This two-player electro-mechanical game carries a cheerful celebration theme and reflects the polished state of Williams design at the close of the 1950s. Notably, the designer was long credited as Harry Williams, but the manufacturer's original playfield drawing, dated 1959, is signed by Mabs.

Fiesta gives players plenty to work with: four flippers, three pop bumpers, two passive bumpers, two slingshots, three standup targets, and two gobble holes - those high-risk, high-reward holes that swallow the ball in exchange for a score. A score drum mounted in the playfield adds an unusual bit of mechanical flair, and a double match at game's end awards 10 replays. The game could be set for 3- or 5-ball play. Curiously, the original flyer incorrectly claimed the game had five thumper bumpers.

With its festive theme and generous feature set, Fiesta is a fine example of late-1950s Williams craftsmanship, pairing Harry Mabs's layout with George Molentin's artwork in an invitation to join the celebration.