Pinball: A Graphic History of the Silver Ball

In 1976, Roger Sharpe challenged the citywide ban on pinball by proving it was a game of skill. Jon Chad's graphic guide traces pinball's history from the Court of King Louis XIV to the present, capturing its artistry, cultural significance, and physics.

Format: Hardback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 14 March 2022
Publisher: Roaring Brook Press

In 1976, a champion player named Roger Sharpe took on a pinball machine in a Manhattan courtroom. He was there to challenge the citywide ban on pinball, arguing that it was a game of skill, not chance. With a flick of his wrist, Sharpe pulled back the plunger and released the ball, and the fate of the pinball industry and artform hung in the balance.

This comprehensive graphic guide to the history of pinball is written by Jon Chad. It traces the game's roots back to the Court of King Louis XIV and spans to the present day. Chad not only delves into the history of pinball but also explores its artistry, cultural significance, and even the physics behind the game.

Pinball has a rich and storied history, with its origins dating back to the 17th century. It was initially played in France as a game called "boule de jeu" or "bowling ball." The game later spread to other parts of Europe and eventually made its way to the United States.

In the early 1900s, pinball machines began to gain popularity in amusement parks and arcades. They were known for their bright lights, bells, and whistles, and they quickly became a staple of American culture. However, pinball was also controversial, with some people arguing that it was a form of gambling and should be banned.

In 1976, the city of New York passed a law banning pinball machines from being played in public places. This law was based on the belief that pinball was a game of chance, and that it was promoting gambling and crime. Roger Sharpe, a pinball enthusiast, took on the city government and challenged the ban.

Sharpe argued that pinball was a game of skill, not chance. He pointed out that players could control the ball's trajectory and that there were many different strategies and techniques that could be used to improve one's score. He also argued that pinball was a form of art and that it had cultural significance.

Sharpe's challenge to the ban was successful, and the city of New York lifted its ban on pinball in 1978. This was a significant victory for the pinball industry, and it paved the way for the game's resurgence in popularity.

Since then, pinball has continued to evolve and innovate. There have been many different types of pinball machines, from classic arcade games to modern digital machines. The game has also been embraced by collectors and enthusiasts around the world, who appreciate its history, artistry, and cultural significance.

In conclusion, pinball has a rich and fascinating history that spans centuries. It was initially banned in New York in 1976, but a champion player named Roger Sharpe challenged the ban and helped to lift it in 1978. Since then, pinball has continued to evolve and innovate, and it has been embraced by collectors and enthusiasts around the world. The game is a testament to the power of skill, creativity, and perseverance, and it will continue to be enjoyed by generations to come.

Weight: 300g
Dimension: 216 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781250249210