Flippers pinball closeup

Close up of pinball flippers, the essential mechanism that defines gameplay and player skill.

About this subject

Pinball flippers are the primary means of controlling the ball in a pinball machine. They were introduced in 1947 by Gottlieb in the game Humpty Dumpty, revolutionizing the arcade world. Before flippers, players simply launched the ball and watched it roll, with no way to influence its path. Flippers transformed pinball from a game of chance to a game of skill, requiring quick reflexes and hand eye coordination.

Mechanically, each flipper consists of a bat shaped lever activated by a solenoid when the player presses a button. The solenoid contains a coil that, when energized, creates a magnetic field to pull a plunger, moving the flipper forward. A return spring pushes the flipper back to its resting position when the button is released. The power and angle of the flipper can be adjusted to fine tune gameplay.

Culturally, flippers are icons of vintage arcades. Classic machines like The Addams Family (1992) and Medieval Madness (1997) used multiple flippers strategically placed, including on ramps and in hidden areas, to create unique challenges. Flipper design has evolved to improve ball control with curved surfaces and high grip rubber to prevent the ball from slipping off.

A notable fact: the modern flipper button was patented by John M. Walsh in 1948, but Gottlieb was first to market. Today, flippers remain the heart of any pinball machine, connecting generations of players worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are pinball flippers?

They are levers controlled by side buttons that hit the ball. Introduced in 1947 in Gottlieb's Humpty Dumpty. They allow the player to control the ball's trajectory.

How do flippers work mechanically?

Flippers are activated by solenoids when the player presses a button. An electromagnet pulls the lever forward, and a spring returns it to the original position. The strength and angle can be adjusted.

Why are flippers important in pinball history?

They turned pinball from a game of luck into a game of skill. Before flippers, players only launched the ball and watched. With flippers, they could hit and direct the ball, creating strategies and competitions.