1962 World Series

Baseball and pinball collided in this arcade favorite, part of a group of machines known as “pitch & bat games.” Instead of using flippers, players swung a spring-loaded mechanical bat to send the ball into scoring targets marked for singles, doubles, triples, and home runs. A motorized running-man unit in the backbox advanced players around the bases, turning each turn at bat into a miniature ballgame.

1962 World Series brought the drama of America’s pastime indoors, letting fans compete for runs and bragging rights. Its colorful artwork by George Molentin and animated playfield made it stand out in bowling alleys and arcades at a time when baseball was still the country’s defining sport.