The year 1977 marked a significant moment for D. Gottlieb & Company with the release of the "Jungle Queen" pinball machine. As an electro-mechanical (EM) game, it arrived towards the twilight of the EM era, showcasing the peak of what this technology could achieve before solid-state machines became dominant. Designed by the accomplished Ed Krynski, with its captivating artwork brought to life by Gordon Morison, "Jungle Queen" emerged from the Gottlieb factory in July of 1977.

This four-player machine, bearing the model number 398, was a substantial production for its time, with 7,140 units manufactured. The distribution was notably global, with 4,466 units exported and 2,329 designated for domestic sales. Additionally, 345 sample games were produced, indicating a strong push for this title. Operators in 1977 could acquire "Jungle Queen" for $1295 FOB Chicago, a competitive price point for a new machine. Its two-player counterpart, "Jungle Princess," shared the same core design, demonstrating Gottlieb's efficient production strategy of offering both player configurations from a single base platform. The creation of "Jungle Queen" was a testament to Gottlieb’s continued commitment to the EM format, pushing its capabilities in design and gameplay.

Signature Features and Design

"Jungle Queen" stands out with several design elements that contribute to its distinctive identity. Foremost among these is the artwork package, a vibrant creation by Gordon Morison. The backglass, playfield, and cabinet art are a cohesive display of the jungle theme, utilizing a palette of turquoise, orange, and pink to evoke a sense of exotic adventure. The cabinet prominently features a stylized tiger, an eye-catching detail that instantly conveys the machine's wilderness setting. This visual appeal is not merely decorative; it integrates seamlessly with the gameplay, inviting players into the thematic world.

Another defining characteristic of "Jungle Queen" is its unique four-flipper setup. Beyond the standard pair of lower flippers, two smaller, "nubby" flippers are positioned higher on the playfield. This arrangement provides alternative shot opportunities and control, creating a different gameplay feel compared to machines with conventional flipper layouts. While some players find these upper flippers require a period of adjustment, their presence is a fundamental aspect of the machine’s flow, enabling complex shot sequences and strategic play. Complementing the visual and mechanical design are the machine's acoustics. The traditional Gottlieb chimes produce a pleasing soundscape, characteristic of EM machines, and the score motor creates a rhythmic backdrop that underscores the fast-paced gameplay. The interplay of sound, light, and mechanics contributes to a compelling sensory experience that remains captivating decades after its release.

Playfield and Mechanics

The "Jungle Queen" playfield presents a symmetrical and well-structured layout, inviting players to explore its various targets and features. A central element of the playfield design is the presence of two distinct 5-bank drop targets. These banks are strategically placed to encourage diverse shot angles and contribute to the machine's scoring objectives. The upper half of the playfield is active, featuring three pop bumpers that propel the ball with unpredictable force, adding an element of chance and excitement to shots directed towards them.

Below the pop bumpers, two kick-out holes provide distinct opportunities for scoring and ball redirection. A notable absence on the lower playfield is the traditional set of slingshots adjacent to the flippers. This design choice impacts ball movement, giving the lower third of the playfield a different feel, sometimes perceived as "dark" or less reactive than machines with slingshots. However, it also emphasizes precise flipper control. A challenging "B" rollover is located at the top of the playfield, serving as a rewarding skill shot that requires a controlled plunge to activate bonus features. The artwork on the playfield reinforces the jungle theme, with lush visuals guiding the player's eye towards targets and scoring zones. The lighting system, particularly when all drop targets are successfully cleared, illuminates the playfield in a brilliant display, enhancing player satisfaction and signaling progress.

Gameplay Dynamics

"Jungle Queen" offers a gameplay experience characterized by its speed and challenge, making it engaging for a wide range of players. The scoring system is notably fast for an EM machine, with the maximum displayed point score reaching 199,990 points. The primary objective revolves around completing the two banks of five drop targets. Successfully clearing these targets, especially activating the "ABC" lights, is crucial for maximizing scores and unlocking the game's various bonus features. Each cleared bank not only contributes points but also increases the end-of-ball bonus multiplier, encouraging players to methodically work through the targets.

The game's pacing is swift, especially when the machine is set up with a steeper incline. This contributes to its reputation as a "hungry" drainer, with side and middle drains frequently claiming the ball. This challenge, however, is a core part of its appeal, fostering a desire for repeated play to master the machine's demands. "Jungle Queen" incorporates a comprehensive rule set for an EM game, offering clear objectives, including extra ball opportunities and bonus accumulation. The interplay between the four flippers, pop bumpers, and drop targets ensures that each game can unfold differently. Players must adapt their strategies, utilizing the upper flippers for precise shots to clear targets or aiming for the kick-out holes for scoring opportunities. This variability has led some players to affectionately call it the "fickle queen," as an impressive high-scoring game can be followed by a quick defeat, demanding constant focus and adaptability.

Reception and Legacy

"Jungle Queen" has garnered a largely positive reception within the pinball community, consistently ranked as one of the standout electro-mechanical machines from the late 1970s. Its strengths are frequently highlighted, with many enthusiasts considering it a pinnacle of EM design and a compelling "must-have" for collectors. The captivating artwork by Gordon Morison, particularly the backglass and cabinet, receives widespread acclaim for its beauty and thematic integration. The unique four-flipper setup is often cited as a key differentiator, contributing to a distinct and challenging gameplay experience that encourages strategic play.

Players appreciate the machine's addictive quality, driven by its fast-paced nature and the satisfaction of clearing the drop targets. The classic Gottlieb chimes and the rhythmic hum of the score motor are also frequently mentioned as contributing to the machine's charming, authentic EM feel. While broadly praised, "Jungle Queen" does have a few points of contention among players. Some find the gameplay, while engaging, to be somewhat similar to other Gottlieb releases from the same era. The absence of slingshots in the lower playfield can lead to a perceived "darkness" or less reactive area around the main flippers, which some players miss. Additionally, the unique smaller upper flippers, while a defining feature, can sometimes interfere with game flow for new players or those accustomed to more conventional layouts. Despite these minor criticisms, the consensus remains overwhelmingly positive. Its enduring appeal lies in its blend of challenging gameplay, striking aesthetics, and the robust design characteristic of Gottlieb's EM production. "Jungle Queen" solidified Gottlieb’s reputation in the twilight of the EM era, demonstrating that even as new technologies emerged, the classic electro-mechanical pinball machine still had significant depth and excitement to offer.