1977 Gottlieb Big Hit
Manufacturer : Gottlieb
Year : 1977
Players : 1
Type : Electro-mechanical
Theme : Sports - Baseball
Production : 2,313 units
Status : Sold
Gottlieb’s Big Hit (1977) is a highly regarded single-player electro-mechanical (EM) pinball machine featuring a baseball theme and fast, skill-based gameplay. Designed by Ed Krynski, it stands out for its unique center autolauncher, four-flipper layout, and engaging playfield built around scoring runs and building innings.
Game Features
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Single-player electro-mechanical (EM) pinball machine
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Baseball-themed gameplay with run scoring system
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Designed by Ed Krynski
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Unique center-mounted autolauncher (“pitcher” feature)
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Four flippers (two lower, two upper) for advanced control
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Two banks of drop targets (10 total) for scoring hits
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Two vari-targets for skill-based scoring
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Upper playfield action with strategic shot control
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Backglass animation tracking runners and scoring
Overview
Big Hit delivers one of the most engaging baseball-themed experiences in electro-mechanical pinball. Instead of traditional scoring alone, players advance runners and score runs, creating a “game within a game” that adds depth and replayability.
The standout feature is its center-mounted autolauncher, simulating a pitcher and adding a unique timing element right from ball launch. Combined with four flippers and upper playfield access, players have greater control and more strategic shot opportunities than most EM machines.
Drop targets and vari-targets drive the core gameplay, allowing players to build singles, doubles, and triples while advancing runners. The result is a fast-paced, skill-heavy machine that rewards precision and timing.
Widely considered one of Gottlieb’s best late-era EM games, Big Hit is a favorite among collectors for its originality, gameplay depth, and strong thematic integration.
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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)