1974 Gottlieb Duotron
Manufacturer : Gottlieb
Year : 1974
Players : 2
Type : Electro-mechanical
Theme : Fantasy
Production : 2,525 units
Status : Sold
Duotron (1974) by Gottlieb is a 2-player electro-mechanical (EM) pinball machine known for its futuristic robot theme and challenging, fast-draining gameplay. Designed with artwork by Gordon Morison, it is the 2-player version of Magnatron and has a reputation as a true “drain monster,” rewarding skilled nudging and control. With approximately 2,525 units produced, Duotron is a collectible mid-70s EM title with distinctive gameplay features.
Game Features
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2-player electro-mechanical (EM) pinball machine
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Futuristic robot-themed artwork by Gordon Morison
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Approx. 2,525 units produced
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Center captive ball that advances bonus when shot across
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Center saucer (pop-out hole) that opens right outlane ball-save gate
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Right outlane kickback/safety gate for ball save
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Countdown bonus system up to 15,000 points
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A, B, C stand-up target bank to build bonus
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Three pop bumpers for active playfield action
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Upper lanes that help control ball flow and scoring
Overview
Duotron delivers a deceptively simple but highly punishing gameplay experience typical of mid-1970s Gottlieb designs. The central captive ball is a key strategic element, rewarding accurate shooting with steady bonus advancement, while the center saucer introduces a tactical layer by activating the right-side ball save.
The game’s open layout and dangerous outlanes make it a true test of control and nudging skill. Players must carefully manage risk versus reward—building bonus through targets and captive ball shots while avoiding quick drains.
As the 2-player counterpart to Magnatron, Duotron stands out for its unique combination of captive ball mechanics and ball-save features, making it both challenging and rewarding. Its relatively low production and tough gameplay have made it a favorite among collectors who enjoy demanding, skill-based EM machines.
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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)