Forward March

Forward March, an electro-mechanical pinball machine from October 1937, offers a fascinating glimpse into the early days of the game. Built by the Mills Novelty Company of Chicago, Forward March comes from a transitional phase in pinball's evolution, before the invention of the flipper, when electro-mechanical features were bringing new life to what had begun as purely mechanical contraptions.

The gameplay on Forward March offered five balls for five cents. Players navigate a playfield featuring seven kickers and five trap holes, requiring careful aim from the plunger to maximize scores. The machine's flipperless simplicity belies the intricacy of its electro-mechanical design.

Forward March's military theme reflects the patriotic currents of the era. Little is documented about the machine's designer or its original production numbers, adding to its mystique. Despite this lack of documentation, Forward March remains an appealing piece for pinball enthusiasts, offering a tangible connection to the game's pre-war history.