Follies of 1940

The Follies of 1940 pinball machine, manufactured by Genco in November 1939, is a piece of pre-war electro-mechanical (EM) pinball history. Genco, a Chicago-based manufacturer active from 1931 to 1958, made substantial contributions to the industry, and this flipperless game reflects the state of pinball design just before World War II.

Follies of 1940 features 14 spring bumpers, the primary scoring devices of flipperless games from this era, providing an engaging challenge as players launch balls and watch them ricochet down the playfield. The machine carries a lighthearted theme centered around dancing and happiness, taking its name from the revue-style stage shows popular at the time.

Little is known about the designer behind Follies of 1940, adding to its allure as a rare and mysterious piece of pinball history. As a pre-war game from a prominent manufacturer, it holds interest for collectors and enthusiasts who follow the evolution of the game.