Flippers pinball closeup

Close-up of pinball flippers, the essential mechanism that transformed electric pinball into a global cultural phenomenon since the 1940s.

About this subject

The flippers are the heart of modern pinball. Invented in 1947 by Harry Mabs of Gottlieb for the game 'Humpty Dumpty', they replaced earlier side plungers and gave players active control over the ball. This technical advance, patented as the 'flipper', allowed the ball to be batted back into play, lengthening games and increasing the required skill. Before flippers, pinball was largely a game of chance, with the ball falling through fixed obstacles. The introduction of flippers revolutionized the game, fueling the popularity of arcades in the 1950s through 1980s, especially in the United States and Brazil, where machines were called 'caça-níqueis' or 'pinball'. Flippers are activated by side buttons that energize solenoids to move the levers. In electromechanical machines, contacts close circuits; in modern ones, sensors and processors are used. Flipper designs vary: some are longer for greater reach, others have specific curves to control rebound angles. In competitions, precise flipper use is critical for hitting targets, completing modes, and achieving high scores. Beyond gameplay, flippers are aesthetic icons of the arcade world, often featured in pop art, fashion, and design, as in the 'high-fashion editorial' aesthetic that evokes nostalgia and vintage technology. The metallic sound of a flipper being triggered is instantly recognizable to enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who invented pinball flippers?

The flipper was invented by Harry Mabs, an employee of Gottlieb, in 1947 for the game Humpty Dumpty. The patent was filed in 1948.

How do pinball flippers work?

Flippers are levers activated by solenoids. When the player presses the side buttons, an electric current energizes the solenoid, which moves the flipper upward to strike the ball.

Why are flippers important in pinball?

Flippers transformed pinball from a game of chance to a game of skill, allowing players to control the ball's trajectory. This boosted the popularity of arcades and created a global competitive culture.