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Cazy Taxi High Roller
Date of Manufacture: 1960
Number Produced: ~1,200 units
Manufacturer: D. Gottlieb & Co.
Creators:
- Designer: Wayne Neyens
- Artist: Roy Parker
Game Type:
- Electro-mechanical,
- 4-player game
Rating: 7/10
Fun Rating: 7.5/10
DISCUSSION OF ___ PINBALL
History of ___
The Texan (1960) pinball machine is a captivating relic from the golden era of pinball, produced by the esteemed D. Gottlieb & Co. This machine was a collaborative effort between two of the industry's most influential figures: designer Wayne Neyens and artist Roy Parker. It was produced in limited numbers, with around 1,200 units manufactured, making it a coveted item for collectors.
The Texan captured the imagination of players with its Western theme, a popular motif in the 1950s and 1960s. The fascination with cowboy culture and the American frontier was at its peak, thanks to the widespread popularity of Western movies and television shows. This cultural backdrop contributed to the machine's appeal, as players were drawn to the adventurous spirit and rugged imagery of the Wild West.
Cultural Impact and Popularity
Cultural Impact and Popularity
Cultural Impact and Popularity
The Texan was well-received for its engaging gameplay and thematic artwork. It resonated with players who enjoyed the romanticized portrayal of the Old West, providing an immersive experience that was both entertaining and nostalgic. The game's colorful backglass and playfield, depicting cowboys, horses, and Western landscapes, were key elements that attracted players and made the machine a standout in arcades and bars.
Cultural Impact and Popularity
Cultural Impact and Popularity
The Texan (1960) pinball machine remains an iconic piece of arcade history, celebrated for its craftsmanship, cultural significance, and enduring appeal. It stands as a testament to the creativity and innovation of its creators and the era in which it was produced.
Innovations and Features
Interesting Facts and Trivia
Interesting Facts and Trivia
The Texan (1960) incorporated several innovations and features that were either new or popular during the time:
- Rotating Light Unit: One of the most distinctive features was a rotating light unit that indicated different scoring values for specific targets. This added an element of chance and strategy, as players aimed to hit the most valuable targets when they were active.
- Electro-Mechanical Technology: As an electro-mechanical machine, the Texan utilized advanced technology for its time, including relays, solenoids, and stepper units. These components controlled various aspects of gameplay, providing a more dynamic and interactive experience.
- Thematic Artwork: Roy Parker's artwork played a significant role in the machine's appeal. His detailed and vibrant illustrations helped bring the Western theme to life, making the machine visually striking and enhancing the overall player experience.
- Playfield Design: The playfield featured a well-thought-out layout with a variety of bumpers, kickers, and targets. This design encouraged skillful play and offered a satisfying challenge for players.
Interesting Facts and Trivia
Interesting Facts and Trivia
Interesting Facts and Trivia
- Western Craze: The Texan was part of a broader trend in the pinball industry to capitalize on the Western craze, which was highly popular in the media of the time.
- Limited Availability: With only around 1,200 units produced, the Texan is relatively rare, making it a valuable find for collectors.
- Artistic Legacy: Roy Parker's artwork is celebrated for its vibrant and evocative style, which set a high standard for pinball machine aesthetics.
- Nostalgic Appeal: The machine's theme and design continue to evoke nostalgia for a bygone era, making it a favorite among vintage pinball enthusiasts.
- Gameplay Challenge: The rotating light unit and diverse playfield elements offered a unique challenge, requiring both luck and skill to achieve high scores.
___ Gameplay Tutorial
Goal and Objectives
The primary objective of the 1960 Texan is to score as many points as possible by hitting various targets and completing specific objectives. Players aim to maximize their score by strategically hitting high-value targets and utilizing the machine's unique features.
Game Modes and Rule Sets
- Main Playfield: The playfield features a variety of targets, including bumpers, rollovers, and kickers. The goal is to keep the ball in play while hitting these elements to accumulate points.
- Rotating Light Unit: The rotating light unit indicates which targets are currently worth the most points. Players should prioritize hitting these lit targets to maximize their score.
How to Score High
- Hit the Lit Targets: Focus on hitting the targets highlighted by the rotating light unit, as these offer higher point values. Timing and precision are key to taking advantage of this feature.
- Utilize Bumpers and Kickers: Use the flippers to control the ball and direct it toward bumpers and kickers. These elements can help keep the ball in play and rack up points quickly.
- Complete Target Sequences: Certain sequences of targets may trigger additional bonuses or increase the score multiplier. Keep an eye on the playfield and aim to complete these sequences for higher scores.
- Maintain Ball Control: Skillful use of the flippers and nudging techniques can help prevent the ball from draining, allowing for longer gameplay and higher scores.
By mastering these strategies and understanding the game's unique mechanics, players can enjoy the 1960 Texan's classic pinball experience and strive for high scores. This machine, with its rich cultural background and engaging gameplay, continues to be a favorite among pinball enthusiasts.
General Gameplay Tips
- Ball Control: Maintaining control of the ball is crucial for maximizing your score. Focus on keeping the ball away from the outlanes and in the center of the playfield.
- Timing and Precision: Pay attention to the timing of your shots. Precise flipper control can help you hit high-value targets and complete objectives.
- Understanding the Playfield: Familiarize yourself with the playfield layout, including the locations of bumpers, kickers, and rollovers. Knowing where to aim can help you optimize your gameplay strategy.
Advanced Strategy
- Combo Shots: Align shots to hit the swinging targets immediately after the ball ricochets from lit bumpers for bonus chain scoring.
- Play Defense: Watch for rebounds from the swinging targets, as they can lead to unexpected drains if not carefully managed.
- Endgame Planning: Set up the playfield during the last ball to maximize bonus collection at the end of your turn.
Resources
Pinball Database - Comprehensive resource for pinball machine details, including production numbers, manufacturers, and specifications.
Internet Pinball Database (IPDB) - A well-regarded online archive of pinball machines, their histories, and related artifacts.
Pinside Forums - A community forum for pinball enthusiasts, featuring discussions, reviews, and historical information on various pinball machines.
Classic Pinball Machines - The Pinball Resource - Offers historical information and technical details on classic pinball machines.
Pinball Magazine - A publication dedicated to the history and culture of pinball machines, including articles and features on specific games and their designers.
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