"Sure Shot," released by D. Gottlieb & Co. in March 1976, emerged as a distinctive electro-mechanical (EM) pinball machine, firmly rooted in the popular theme of billiards. Its design and execution were primarily the work of Ed Krynski, who was responsible for the machine's concept, design, animation, and mechanics. The visual character of "Sure Shot" was shaped by Gordon Morison's artwork, which brought the pool hall aesthetic to life across the playfield and cabinet.

The machine’s production run totaled 3,812 units, with 2,407 allocated for domestic sales and 1,293 for export, alongside an additional 112 sample games produced in 1975. "Sure Shot" holds a specific place in pinball history as the final Gottlieb machine to feature the distinctive half-moon credit window, a design element that characterized earlier EM eras. It also existed in variations, with its add-a-ball counterpart being Gottlieb's 1976 "Bank Shot" and the export version for Italy known as "Spot Pool," showcasing a shared foundational design across different market approaches. This machine’s release coincided with a pivotal moment for pinball, as it was one of the machines used by Roger Sharpe in a demonstration that helped overturn the longstanding ban on pinball in New York City, advocating for it as a game of skill rather than chance. This real-world context imbues "Sure Shot" with a deeper historical resonance beyond its mechanics.

Signature Features and Design

"Sure Shot" immediately distinguishes itself through its classic "wedgehead" cabinet style, a hallmark of Gottlieb's EM machines from this period. The playfield integrates a balanced array of elements designed to encourage precision and strategic shot-making. Central to its interaction are two flippers, positioned at the bottom of the playfield, providing the primary means of ball control and shot execution. Above these, three pop bumpers are strategically placed, initiating chaotic but score-generating bounces. Two slingshots flank the flippers, redirecting the ball with force when struck.

The machine features three standup targets and two kick-out holes. These kick-out holes, positioned on either side of the mid-playfield, are integral to the game’s scoring progression. When lit, they become high-value targets, amplifying points and contributing to the overall bonus. The design philosophy of "Sure Shot" emphasizes direct engagement with these mechanical features. There are no elaborate toys or complex ramp structures typical of later solid-state machines. Instead, the interaction focuses on the precise manipulation of the ball to activate targets and rollovers, enhancing a gameplay experience that rewards player skill and accurate aiming. The sound design, featuring classic 3-chime audio and a knocker for special scores, provides immediate auditory feedback, reinforcing successful plays and maintaining engagement.

Playfield and Mechanics

The "Sure Shot" playfield layout is a masterclass in EM design, offering a clear, uncluttered space that prioritizes shot accuracy and ball flow. The upper playfield is defined by a series of rollover lanes, with the "1 ball" rollover at the top arch serving as a crucial initial shot from the plunger. Successfully navigating the ball through these lanes is fundamental to activating features and progressing through the game's objectives. Below the rollover lanes, the three pop bumpers create a vibrant scoring zone, their light-up functionality indicating increased point values when active.

Mid-playfield, the two kick-out holes are central to the game's scoring strategy. These saucers are designed to collect balls, and their value increases as more "numbered balls" are collected on the playfield. The surrounding area includes three standup targets, which contribute to lighting these crucial kick-out holes or other scoring opportunities. The lower playfield, governed by the two flippers and slingshots, requires players to maintain control and execute precise shots to avoid the punishing outlanes and to cycle the ball back into the upper scoring zones.

Gordon Morison's artwork adorns the playfield with vibrant depictions of a billiards scene, featuring various numbered pool balls and thematic elements. The color palette is rich, drawing the player into the classic barroom setting that complements the game's theme. Lighting is primarily functional, illuminating targets and lanes to indicate active scoring opportunities or progression. The aesthetic is characteristic of Gottlieb's mid-1970s style, offering a blend of detail and clear visual cues that guide the player without overwhelming the senses.

Gameplay Dynamics

The core objective of "Sure Shot" revolves around "pocketing" or collecting all the numbered balls depicted on the playfield and the backglass. Players advance by hitting specific rollover lanes and targets, which light up these numbered balls one by one. As balls are collected, the bonus system accumulates, promising a significant point payout at the end of each ball. This clear, progressive goal provides a consistent drive for players, making each shot purposeful.

A key dynamic is the "special" feature, which moves between the two kick-out holes and the "1" rollover at the top of the playfield. Hitting a lit special awards a replay, a highly rewarding moment that underscores the machine's focus on skill-based play. The strategic challenge often lies in planning shots to light up the necessary targets and then aiming for the now-valuable kick-out holes. For instance, a common strategy involves nudging the machine to guide the ball into the pop bumper area for maximum chaotic scoring, or carefully aiming for the difficult "1 ball" rollover from the plunger. The game's scoring system, culminating in a maximum displayed score of 199,990 points, alongside a replay wheel maximum of 9, encourages players to push for higher scores and extended play. While the rules are simple, their execution demands precision, particularly for the bank shots off the bumpers and the precise shots required to light and collect balls.

Reception and Legacy

"Sure Shot" generally enjoys a positive reception within the pinball community, often cited as a highly engaging example of an EM machine from its era. A prominent strength highlighted by enthusiasts is its addictive gameplay loop, frequently inspiring players to commit to "just one more game." The machine's challenging shots, particularly the "1 ball" rollover and the strategic activation of the 10 and 11 lanes, are frequently praised for offering a genuine sense of accomplishment upon mastery. This difficulty, rather than detracting from the experience, is seen as contributing to its replayability.

The straightforward yet compelling rule set—the clear objective of collecting all numbered balls—is universally appreciated, providing an accessible entry point while still allowing for deep strategic engagement. The bonus system, tied to the accumulation of points for lit balls in the kick-out holes, and the rewarding nature of hitting specials, are significant draws that keep players invested. Gordon Morison's artwork, depicting the billiards theme with vibrant colors and detail, is largely well-received, contributing to the machine's classic Gottlieb aesthetic. Many regard "Sure Shot" as an excellent platform for developing aiming and shot-making skills due to its emphasis on precision. Its ability to play very fast when properly maintained also adds to its dynamic appeal.

While the overwhelming sentiment is positive, some minor critiques exist. A small number of players have expressed a preference for different backglass artwork, occasionally finding it a "rare miss" compared to other Gottlieb titles. For a minority, the game's simplicity, once the main objective is understood, can lead to a desire for more varied or complex goals. Additionally, while the challenge is often appreciated, the difficulty of certain shots, such as the initial "1 ball" from the plunger, can be frustrating for some, and the outlanes are sometimes described as demanding.

Despite these minor points, "Sure Shot" maintains a strong reputation. It is consistently held up as a notable example of Gottlieb's EM design prowess, particularly for its later "wedgehead" models. Its fundamental appeal lies in its combination of straightforward rules and demanding execution. Beyond its intrinsic gameplay merits, the machine's connection to Roger Sharpe's pivotal demonstration in New York City significantly elevates its standing, cementing its place in pinball history as a tangible link to the legal recognition of pinball as a game of skill. This historical context, combined with its enduringly addictive gameplay, ensures "Sure Shot" remains a respected and sought-after machine for collectors and enthusiasts.