Pinball machines of the mid-1970s often transported players to vibrant, imaginative worlds, and "Atlantis" by D. Gottlieb & Co. stands as a testament to this era. Released in January 1975, this electro-mechanical (EM) pinball machine, bearing model number 369, invited players to explore the fabled sunken city. With a production run of 2,225 units, "Atlantis" emerged during a period of significant transition in the pinball industry, yet it firmly established itself with its engaging design and distinctive gameplay.

The creative forces behind "Atlantis" brought considerable experience to its development. The machine's design was primarily conceived by Jeff Brenner, while the striking artwork was the creation of Gordon Morison. Brenner embarked on the project at the behest of Gottlieb's Wayne Neyens and Judd Weinberg, who sought a single-player rendition of Gottlieb's earlier 'Sheriff,' a playfield layout largely credited to Eddie Krynski. Brenner adapted the 'Sheriff'/'Lawman' playfield, making specific modifications such as removing the "paper clip" free ball gate. He also introduced the newer style of mini-posts, which offered a livelier bounce compared to their predecessors. Noteworthy additions by Wayne Neyens included a pin above the right flipper and an extended playfield plastic in the right return lane, both aimed at preventing inadvertent ball drains. Jeff Brenner developed the entirety of "Atlantis" ruleset, including a unique concept of awarding a scoring premium for hitting two adjacent drop targets simultaneously—a feature he wished had been revisited in later designs. Although Brenner's original vision for bullseye circles to highlight this feature was ultimately replaced by Judd Weinberg's preference for blue and white fish designs to better align with the aquatic theme, the mechanism proved popular with players. Brenner, having departed Gottlieb before production, even expressed surprise upon learning about variations in the credit window, specifically the rare half-moon type, which contrasted with the more common square window. These subtle production details, alongside others like the green bumper caps on early units and distinct flipper assemblies found in sample games, illustrate the iterative nature of pinball manufacturing.

Signature Features and Design

"Atlantis" immediately distinguishes itself through several signature features that collectively forge its identity and gameplay experience. Central to its allure is Gordon Morison's artwork, which is consistently praised for its vibrancy and thematic strength. The playfield is a canvas of blues, greens, and marine life, depicting the sunken city with an engaging fantasy aesthetic. While the playfield art is frequently singled out as exceptional, contributing significantly to player immersion, the backglass, with its depiction of the mythical city, also complements the overall package.

Mechanically, the machine's asymmetrical playfield layout is a standout element, offering a unique visual and strategic challenge. On the left side, a prominent 10-bank of drop targets defines a significant portion of the playfield. These targets, alternating in blue and white, are not merely obstacles but integral components of the scoring system. The most celebrated feature associated with these targets is the "double drop" bonus, which awards a substantial 5,000 points for simultaneously hitting two adjacent drop targets—specifically, a blue and a white one. This highly rewarding mechanic transforms target shooting into a more deliberate, skill-based endeavor, encouraging players to aim for precise combinations rather than simply clearing the bank. On the right, a challenging bagatelle-style rollover maze, often described as a "ladder," introduces a distinct element of skill and nudging strategy. These combined elements—the visually appealing artwork, the clever asymmetrical layout, the rewarding drop target bonus, and the intricate rollover sequence—define the experience of "Atlantis."

Playfield and Mechanics

The playfield of "Atlantis" is a carefully constructed environment designed to challenge and engage players. Its layout, a refined adaptation of earlier Gottlieb designs, presents an asymmetrical flow that demands varied shot-making. The left side is dominated by the large 10-bank drop targets, arranged vertically. These targets are not static elements; clearing the entire bank serves to advance the machine's primary scoring sequence and resets the targets for another attempt. Precision shots into this bank are crucial, especially when aiming for the 5,000-point "double drop" bonus awarded for hitting adjacent targets simultaneously. The strategic placement of these targets encourages players to develop a nuanced approach to their shots, balancing clearing the bank with seeking high-value combinations.

In contrast, the right side of the playfield features a series of parallel lanes, forming a ladder-like rollover maze. This section is key to advancing the 1-9 number sequence, a core objective of the game. Navigating the ball through these rollovers often requires skillful nudging, making the game physically interactive. The design includes two pop bumpers positioned strategically to create action in the upper playfield, along with two slingshots that provide unpredictable bounces. The flippers, two in number, are positioned at the bottom, offering the primary means of controlling the ball. Gottlieb's use of newer, bouncier mini-posts throughout the playfield contributes to a more dynamic and responsive ball movement. The artwork, meticulously rendered by Gordon Morison, seamlessly integrates the playfield elements within the underwater Atlantis theme. Vibrant blues, greens, and yellows define the landscape, populated by fish and mythological structures. Lighting effects are used to highlight active rollovers and targets, guiding the player's attention to current objectives and available scoring opportunities. The overall aesthetic is cohesive, drawing players into the mysterious depths of the lost city.

Gameplay Dynamics

The gameplay dynamics of "Atlantis" are characterized by a captivating blend of skill, strategy, and progression, making it a demanding yet rewarding electro-mechanical experience. The primary objective revolves around advancing a sequential series of numbers from 1 to 9, which, upon completion, lights special awards. This progression can be achieved through multiple avenues across the playfield. Players can hit the lit rollovers located at the top of the playfield, skillfully navigate the right-side bagatelle-style rollover maze to complete segments of the sequence (specifically 1-4 and 6-9), or target lit stand-up targets whose illumination is controlled by other rollovers. Crucially, clearing the entire 10-bank of drop targets on the left side not only resets the bank but also advances the 1-9 sequence, offering a significant strategic reward.

Beyond the sequential progression, "Atlantis" introduces the distinctive "double drop" bonus, awarding 5,000 points for hitting two adjacent drop targets—a blue and a white one—simultaneously. This particular mechanic injects a layer of precision aiming into the game, encouraging players to attempt specific shots rather than simply indiscriminately clearing targets. Successfully lighting the special awards, which can appear in various locations, becomes a challenging yet satisfying payoff for consistent play and strategic execution. With a maximum displayed score of 99,990 points and options for 3 or 5 ball play, the scoring system is straightforward but deep. "Atlantis" is frequently noted for its high difficulty. The ball moves quickly, and drains, particularly down the left side often facilitated by the slingshot action, are common. This demanding pace necessitates precise flipper control, strategic nudging, and a clear understanding of the playfield's nuances to achieve high scores and earn replays. The constant pursuit of advancing the number sequence and hitting the valuable "double drop" bonus creates an addictive "just one more game" appeal.

Reception and Legacy

"Atlantis" has garnered significant praise within the pinball community, solidifying its reputation as one of D. Gottlieb & Co.'s most esteemed electro-mechanical machines. The sentiment surrounding the game is overwhelmingly positive, with players frequently describing it as a classic, brilliant, and masterful design for its era. Many pinball enthusiasts express a strong desire to own "Atlantis," considering it a benchmark for EM design and gameplay.

Its strengths are numerous and frequently highlighted. The challenging yet deeply rewarding ruleset, centered on the 1-9 sequence and the strategic "double drop" bonus, is consistently lauded for its depth and replayability. Players find the pursuit of these objectives highly addictive, fostering a "just one more game" mentality even in the face of its considerable difficulty. Gordon Morison's artwork receives widespread acclaim, often described as beautiful, gorgeous, and top-notch, contributing significantly to the machine's visual appeal and thematic immersion. The asymmetrical playfield layout is praised as clever and unique, providing varied shot opportunities and a distinct flow. Furthermore, the classic Gottlieb chimes are a point of appreciation, enhancing the authentic EM pinball experience.

Despite its many virtues, "Atlantis" is not without its specific characteristics that some players perceive as challenges. Its high difficulty is frequently mentioned, with the fast ball speed and common drains, particularly down the left outlane, leading to short ball times for less experienced players. While some find the backglass artwork visually engaging, a segment of players considers it slightly less impressive than the vibrant playfield. As an EM machine, it naturally lacks modern features like multi-ball or add-a-ball, though some purists appreciate the focused, single-ball gameplay this enforces. Availability and price are also factors, as its collectible status can make it challenging and costly to acquire a well-maintained unit. A few detailed critiques have pointed out that the pacing can feel slow with only two pop bumpers, and that the 1-9 sequence, once completed for a special, does not reset, potentially limiting continued high-score opportunities in the same game. However, these specific points rarely diminish the overall high regard for "Atlantis." Its enduring legacy is that of a quintessential Gottlieb EM, revered for its challenging, beautifully executed, and uniquely engaging gameplay that continues to captivate players decades after its initial release.