Centigrade 37 stands as a distinct entry in the D. Gottlieb & Company pinball catalog, released in August 1977. This electro-mechanical (EM) machine emerged during a transitional period in pinball manufacturing, just before solid-state technology began its widespread dominance. Designed by Allen Edwall with vibrant artwork by Gordon Morison, Centigrade 37 embodies a unique blend of science fiction and playful themes. Its central concept revolves around the human body's normal temperature, 37 degrees Centigrade (98.6 degrees Fahrenheit), cleverly integrated into its gameplay objectives.

Gottlieb produced 1,721 units of Centigrade 37, a figure that includes 838 domestic sales, 762 export units, and an additional 121 sample games. This production run was modest compared to some of its contemporaries, contributing to its later collectibility. Operators could acquire the machine for $995 FOB Chicago upon its release. The creative partnership of Edwall’s design acumen and Morison’s artistic vision resulted in a machine that not only looked striking but also offered an engaging experience, setting it apart in the late 1970s EM landscape.

Signature Features and Design

Centigrade 37's most striking element is its animated backbox. Dominating the backglass is a vertical "thermometer" with a blonde character encased within what appears to be a glass tube, her position rising as players hit specific targets on the playfield. This mechanical animation provides a clear, real-time visual indicator of player progress towards the game's ultimate objective—reaching a "Special." Gordon Morison's artwork extends beyond the backglass, infusing the entire machine with a distinctive sci-fi, retro-comic book aesthetic characterized by vibrant colors and intricate details that captivate the eye.

Beyond the visual spectacle, Centigrade 37 incorporates several unique design choices that shape its gameplay. Notably, the machine lacks traditional slingshots, a deliberate departure from the standard playfield layout of the era. This omission necessitates a different approach to ball control and nudging, emphasizing precise flipper work and strategic angling. The cabinet itself is a "wedge head" design, a classic Gottlieb form that complements the machine's overall vintage appeal. These design elements, from the captivating animated thermometer to the unique playfield geometry, combine to create an experience that feels both familiar for EM enthusiasts and distinctly Centigrade 37.

Playfield and Mechanics

The Centigrade 37 playfield is thoughtfully laid out to encourage skilled play and strategic target selection. At the heart of the lower playfield are two flippers, positioned to allow players to aim for various objectives. Three pop bumpers are clustered centrally in the upper playfield, providing lively ball action and a source of incidental points.

A key feature is the bank of four drop targets, strategically placed to demand accurate shots. Successfully felling these targets is crucial for advancing the backbox thermometer. Above the drop targets, an upper right saucer or kick-out hole offers another significant shot. Hitting this hole not only awards points but also frequently advances the thermometer, creating a rewarding feedback loop. The playfield also includes two standup targets, which when struck, can activate a "Double Advance" feature, accelerating progress towards the "Special."

Perhaps the most distinctive mechanical element on the playfield is the series of parallel rollover lanes on the right side. Often described as "bagatelle lanes" or "alley-style lanes," these contribute significantly to scoring and overall game progression. Navigating these lanes effectively requires precise nudging and ball control. At the top of the playfield, a set of "ABCD" rollover lanes provides further scoring opportunities. The ball's journey is aided by dual inlanes on both the left and right sides, though the right inlane features an "open-elbow" design, allowing the ball to flow between the inlane and outlane in a less predictable manner. This design demands constant player attention and quick reflexes. The overall playfield aesthetic maintains the vibrant sci-fi theme established by the backglass, with bold lines and a dynamic visual flow that immerses the player in the machine's scientific fantasy. The satisfying chimes and clatter of a Gottlieb EM machine further enhance the tactile and auditory experience.

Gameplay Dynamics

The primary objective in Centigrade 37 is to advance the animated thermometer in the backbox. Each segment of the thermometer represents a step towards lighting the "Special," a high-value reward that often signifies reaching the game's ultimate goal. Achieving this advancement is tied directly to successfully hitting specific targets on the playfield. Striking the 4-bank drop targets, for instance, is a consistent method for moving the thermometer forward. The upper right kick-out hole is another critical shot, often providing multiple advances when successfully engaged.

The game encourages strategic shot selection. Players must decide whether to focus on the drop targets for steady thermometer progression, aim for the more challenging kick-out hole for faster gains, or attempt to navigate the intricate right-side rollover lanes for higher point accumulation and additional advances. The "Double Advance" feature, typically lit by hitting specific standup targets, provides a powerful incentive to diversify shots, as it allows for accelerated progress when activated. While the thermometer advancements themselves do not directly award points, they are the gateway to lighting the "Special" and accumulating a significant final score, which can reach a maximum displayed value of 199,990 points. The absence of slingshots means that nudging and carefully planned post passes become more critical for maintaining ball control and setting up shots, adding a layer of nuanced skill to the gameplay. This creates an engaging challenge that rewards both precision and an understanding of the playfield's unique flow.

Reception and Legacy

Centigrade 37 garners significant appreciation within the pinball community, particularly among collectors and enthusiasts of electro-mechanical machines. Its reception is largely positive, with its distinctive attributes frequently cited as major strengths. The artwork by Gordon Morison consistently receives praise, often described as spectacular and among the best produced by Gottlieb, its vibrant colors and compelling sci-fi theme elevating the machine's visual appeal. The animated thermometer in the backbox is another standout feature, widely recognized for its innovative visual feedback and its integral role in gameplay progression. Many players find the game highly enjoyable and engaging, noting its capacity to encourage "just one more game" due to its balanced challenge and rewarding flow. The unique omission of slingshots is often seen as a refreshing departure, necessitating a different skill set centered on precise flipper work and strategic nudging, which appeals to players seeking a unique EM experience. Its relatively low production numbers also contribute to its desirability and collectibility.

However, Centigrade 37 is not without its areas of critique. A recurring point of discussion is its market value, with some believing the machine is occasionally overpriced compared to other EM titles that offer similar levels of gameplay for less investment. A few players also suggest that once the primary objectives are understood, the game can become somewhat predictable, potentially leading to a perception of being "too easy" for prolonged, deep play. There are observations regarding the scoring balance, specifically that the thermometer advances themselves do not directly award points, leading some to suggest that an end-of-game bonus tied to progress would enhance the scoring system. Minor frustrations sometimes arise from the right side of the playfield, particularly regarding specific drain lines that can be unforgiving.

Despite these minor points, Centigrade 37 maintains a strong reputation as one of Gottlieb's most memorable and enjoyable EM pinball machines. Its blend of innovative mechanical features, captivating artwork, and engaging gameplay established it as a benchmark for EM design in its era. The machine's successful integration of a visual progression element into its core gameplay—the animated thermometer—demonstrated a forward-thinking approach to player feedback that influenced subsequent designs. Centigrade 37 stands as a testament to Gottlieb’s creative prowess during a pivotal time in pinball history, securing its place as a cherished and sought-after title within the collecting community.