The "San Francisco" pinball machine, released in May 1964 by the esteemed Williams Electronic Manufacturing Company, captures the vibrant spirit of its namesake city. This electro-mechanical marvel hails from an era when pinball was both a burgeoning pastime and a challenging competitive arena. Steve Kordek, a distinguished figure in the pinball design world, was the mastermind behind the concept, design, and animation, while artist George Molentin contributed his artistic flair to bring San Francisco's ambiance to the playfield.

Produced initially for both domestic and international markets, the "San Francisco" pinball machine saw a production run of 2,000 units. It is notable for being the last game to feature a "gobble hole"—an element that carries both risks and rewards in gameplay. Priced at $405 to distributors, its mechanical backbox animation and dual-player setup challenged players' skills and strategic thinking, leaving a significant mark on the pinball landscape.

Signature Features and Design

The "San Francisco" machine is renowned for its dynamic mechanical backbox animation which depicts a moving arrow, an innovative feature that underscores its advanced design for the time. This animation not only hooks players visually but also ties into the gameplay mechanics, aligning with the machine's San Francisco motif.

The artwork, characterized by George Molentin's deft illustrations, recalls the vibrant culture of 1960s America. This visual appeal enhances the game's nostalgic experience, capturing the cultural landscape of its namesake city on every inch of the playfield.

Playfield and Mechanics

In true Kordek style, the layout of "San Francisco" is a testament to thoughtful design. The playfield is characterized by its two flippers, three jet bumpers, six passive bumpers, as well as slingshots and a challenging gobble hole. The playfield features a multitude of rollover buttons, standup targets, and kick-out holes that contribute to the machine's fast-paced action.

Strategically placed bumpers and slingshots populate the sides, creating a high-energy experience where the ball ricochets wildly, testing both reflexes and precision. The artwork seamlessly integrates with the mechanical components, using vibrant colors and engaging imagery to draw players deep into the immersive atmosphere of San Francisco.

Gameplay Dynamics

The gameplay mechanics of "San Francisco" demand precision and skill, offering a scoring system that reflects the complexity of its playfield. Players navigate a progression of modes and objectives, such as hitting lit zones to maximize point scoring, with the gobble hole offering up to 500 points but at the risk of significant gameplay setbacks.

Strategies revolve around balancing risk and reward, particularly leveraging the tilt hold mechanism and the double match system that can decode multiplayer scenarios to a player's advantage. With traditional bells and a nostalgic knocker, the soundscape completes the authentic pinball feel, reinforcing the game's competitive edge.

Reception and Legacy

Upon its release, "San Francisco" quickly became a favorite among pinball enthusiasts for its challenge and intriguing gameplay mechanics. Although some players critiqued its difficulty and the controversial gobble hole, others praised its strategic depth and historical significance as the last of its kind to feature this element.

This machine has left a lasting legacy in the pinball community, influencing future designs with its balance of risk, reward, and multiplayer dynamics. With contemporary value ranging from $200 to $800, it remains a sought-after piece for collectors and historians who appreciate its place in the golden age of pinball.

San Francisco stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of vintage pinball, inviting players to revisit a time when skill and strategy ruled the game rooms across America.