1974 Gottlieb Big Brave
Manufacturer : Gottlieb
Year : 1974
Players : 2
Type : Electro-mechanical
Theme : American West
Production : 3,450 units
Status : Sold
Gottlieb’s Big Brave (1974) is a highly regarded 2-player electro-mechanical (EM) pinball machine known for its fast, skill-based gameplay and classic Western theme. Designed by Ed Krynski, it features a unique layout highlighted by a 5-bank drop target system and a signature vari-target, making it a favorite among EM enthusiasts.
Game Features
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2-player electro-mechanical (EM) pinball machine (Big Indian = 4-player version)
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Classic Western-themed artwork and backglass
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5-bank drop target system (key scoring feature)
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Vari-target with variable scoring based on shot strength
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“B-I-G” rollover lanes that activate bonuses and scoring features
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End-of-ball bonus system up to 15,000 points
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Double bonus feature on final ball
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Two flippers with classic EM layout
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Approximately 3,450 units produced
Overview
Big Brave delivers a pure, skill-driven EM experience centered around shot control and timing. The 5-bank drop targets serve as the main objective, rewarding players who can consistently complete the bank and reset it for points.
The vari-target adds an extra layer of strategy, offering different rewards depending on shot strength—something that separates this game from more basic EM layouts. Combined with the “B-I-G” rollover sequence and bonus system, gameplay builds momentum as players progress through each ball.
With its clean layout, fast play, and iconic Western artwork, Big Brave (and its 4-player counterpart Big Indian) remains one of the most respected and enjoyable electro-mechanical machines of the 1970s.
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View Restoration Details Playfield (Top Side) • Fully disassembled, cleaned, waxed, and conditioned • New rubbers, lane guides, posts, bulbs, and pinball • New flipper bats • Standup switches and rollover switches polished and adjusted • Plastics cleaned and conditioned Playfield (Underside) • Complete flipper rebuilds (coils, stops, switches, links, springs) • Pop bumper assemblies rebuilt • All relays cleaned, filed, and properly adjusted • Stepper units fully disassembled, cleaned, and calibrated Cabinet & Bottom Board • New power cord and fuse holders • Bottom board fully disassembled and cleaned • Relays, step units, and score motor serviced and adjusted • Jones plugs cleaned for solid connections • Cabinet cleaned inside and out Backbox / Head • Scoring reels disassembled, cleaned, and properly adjusted • Stepper units and relays serviced • New bulbs installed Additional Work • Weak or burned coils replaced as needed • Coin door fully disassembled, cleaned, and polished with new coin entry plates • Chime box cleaned, polished, and rebuilt • Shooter assembly polished with new springs installed • Metal trim, side rails, and legs polished • New locks, bolts, and leg levelers/castors installed • New sheet of playfield glass installed • New bulbs installed throughout entire game Warranty ✔ 1-Year Warranty (local sales) ✔ One service visit included within first year (includes playfield waxing, rubber replacement if needed, and full function check)