Genie (pinball)
| Company type | Pinball machine |
|---|---|
| Industry | Arcade games |
| Founded | 1979 |
| Founder | Ed Krynski |
| Products | Pinball machines |
| Parent | Gottlieb |
Genie is a widebody pinball machine created by Ed Krynski and launched in 1979 under the Gottlieb brand. With a theme centered around a jinn, it was promoted using taglines highlighting its broad cabinet and high earning potential.
Description
In response to Bally’s ultra-wide Paragon, Genie marked Gottlieb’s entry into the late-1970s trend of wider pinball machines. Standard pinball cabinets at that time measured 22″ (56 cm) wide and 51.5″ (131 cm) long; Paragon widened to 28.5″ (73 cm) in width while maintaining the length, whereas Genie extended dimensions further to 28.5″ by 55″ (140 cm). The design incorporates five flippers along with an elevated mini playfield.
Gameplay
The goal for players is to boost the Bonus Value accumulated at the end of each ball by striking various targets, most of which add increments of 1,000 points up to a maximum of 29,000 points. The Bonus Multiplier begins at 1x and can be increased up to 5x by successfully hitting designated drop targets when "BONUS LIT" is active, allowing for a peak bonus score of 145,000 points.
When the Bonus Value reaches 20,000, a "SCORE BONUS" hole becomes illuminated; scoring through this hole will reset the Bonus Value. Players can earn extra balls by completing sets of rollovers or drop targets on the upper playfield, followed by hitting the corresponding lit spot targets.
Digital versions
The Genie pinball machine is officially licensed for play in The Pinball Arcade on various platforms, with options to select either three or five balls per game session. Additionally, it is included in the lineup of Pinball Hall of Fame: The Gottlieb Collection.