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Swing Along
Date of Manufacture: 1963
Number Produced: 4,710 units
Manufacturer: D. Gottlieb & Co.
Creators:
- Designer: Wayne Neyens
- Artist: Roy Parker
Game Type:
- Electro-mechanical
- 2-player game
Rating: 8/10
Fun Rating: 7.5/10
Discussion of Swing Along Pinball
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History Of Swing Along
"Swing Along" represents a transitional period in pinball history, both in gameplay and design aesthetics. As a product of the 1960s, it captures the joyous and vibrant cultural spirit of its era, with Roy Parker's backglass art depicting lively dancers and a brass band—a clear nod to the dance hall culture popular at the time. One of its most groundbreaking contributions to pinball was the introduction of swinging targets. These dynamic targets added an element of timing and precision to the gameplay, making it more engaging and challenging. This innovation became a precursor to the "spinner" feature that remains a staple in modern pinball machines. The game was well-received for its balance of skill and fun, appealing to both casual players and enthusiasts. Its bright artwork and colorful playfield complemented its upbeat theme, helping it stand out among other machines of the time.
Cultural Impact and Popularity
Cultural Impact and Popularity
Cultural Impact and Popularity
Swing Along became a favorite in arcades, bars, and game rooms, serving as a social connector during a time when pinball was a communal pastime. Its design innovations influenced future Gottlieb machines, solidifying the company’s reputation as an industry leader in creativity and craftsmanship.
Cultural Impact and Popularity
Cultural Impact and Popularity
"Swing Along" stands as a testament to the golden age of electromechanical pinball, blending artistry, innovation, and the joyful spirit of the 1960s. Whether you’re a player, collector, or historian, this machine holds a cherished spot in the annals of pinball history.
Innovations and Features
Interesting Facts and Trivia
Interesting Facts and Trivia
- Swinging Targets: Three targets in the center of the playfield, lit by side chutes, offered dynamic scoring opportunities.
- Pop Bumpers: Four bumpers with adjustable lighting, encouraging strategic play to maximize points.
- Bonus Scoring Mechanic: Players who lit all pop bumpers earned a 100-point bonus.
- Artistic Design: The backglass and playfield combined Parker's distinctive character designs and vibrant colors to evoke a lively, festive atmosphere.
Interesting Facts and Trivia
Interesting Facts and Trivia
Interesting Facts and Trivia
- "Swing Along" was one of the last machines to feature small flippers before the widespread adoption of larger ones.
- Wayne Neyens, the game’s designer, created over 150 pinball machines during his career, many of which became iconic in pinball history.
- Roy Parker's artwork, often considered a highlight of Gottlieb machines, is celebrated for its whimsical and energetic style.
- The game was released in the same year as other notable Gottlieb titles like "Sweet Hearts" and "Gigi," showcasing the company's prolific production during the era.
- "Swing Along" is still sought after by collectors for its historic gameplay innovations and aesthetic appeal.
Starting Games with Manual Ball-Loading Mechanisms
Pinball machines like this one feature a manual ball-loading mechanic, which may be unfamiliar to players accustomed to modern, fully automated games. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Step by Step Guide
1. Start the Game
- press the start button, usually located on the front cabinet panel.
- If the game uses multiple players, press the start button again for each additional player.
2. Load the Ball
- Locate the trough where the balls are stored (below the playfield).
- PUSH the manual plunger handle until it locks, lifting a ball into the shooter lane.
- Release the plunger to allow the ball to roll into position for launching.
3. Launch the Ball
- Pull back the shooter plunger to your desired strength:
- A full pull typically sends the ball into play with maximum force.
- A softer pull can help strategically place the ball in certain areas.
- Release the plunger to launch the ball onto the playfield.
4. Play Your Game
- Once the ball is in play, use the flipper buttons on the cabinet sides to keep it in action and aim for scoring targets.
- Keep an eye on mechanical features specific to games like Buckaroo, such as the animated backbox horse.
5. Restarting After losing a ball
- When the ball drains or "Lose the ball", the machine automatically advances to the next ball in the sequence.
- If it’s your turn, manually load and launch the next ball as described in Step 2.
7. Ending the Game
- The game concludes when all players have used their allotted balls (typically three or five).
- Check the scoreboard to see your final score!
Swing Along Gameplay Tutorial
Goal and Objectives
The main goal of Swing Along is to score as many points as possible by strategically hitting the swinging targets, lighting pop bumpers, and completing specific objectives on the playfield. The machine is designed for two players, with alternating turns, and rewards timing, precision, and careful planning.
Game Modes and Rule Sets
Swing Along has a single game mode with alternating turns for up to two players. Success lies in achieving objectives during your turn while setting up opportunities for the next ball.
Swinging Targets
- Purpose: Located at the center of the playfield, the three swinging targets are the machine’s key feature. Hitting them lights up scoring opportunities and adds points.
- Scoring: Targets score progressively higher points based on timing and precision. Aim carefully as they move to maximize your score.
Pop Bumpers
- Function: Four pop bumpers are positioned on the playfield and can be lit for bonus points.
- Scoring Strategy: Lit bumpers award significantly more points, so aim to hit them as often as possible once activated.
Bonus Mechanics
- Activating Bonuses: Lighting all four bumpers triggers a 100-point bonus. The challenge lies in hitting all bumpers strategically during play.
- Reward Collection: Bonuses are tallied at the end of each ball.
Chute Features
- Side Chutes: Aim for the side chutes to activate and maintain lighting on the swinging targets. This increases the score multiplier on subsequent hits.
How to Score High
Master the Swinging Targets
- Timing is everything. Wait for the swinging targets to align with your flipper shots to consistently hit the center target, which scores the most points.
- Watch the pendulum-like motion to predict where the target will be when you release your shot.
Light and Exploit Pop Bumpers
- Focus on lighting all four pop bumpers early in the game. This not only boosts bumper scoring but also activates the valuable 100-point bonus.
Utilize Side Chutes
- Aim for the side chutes to re-light the targets and maintain scoring opportunities. The side chutes are essential for keeping the flow of the game active and scoring high.
Avoid Drains
- Manage flipper control carefully to avoid side drains and the center gap. Small flippers require precision and quick reactions to keep the ball in play.
By mastering the timing, features, and layout of Swing Along, players can achieve high scores while enjoying the machine’s lively and innovative gameplay. This guide provides the essentials for a memorable pinball experience!
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.
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