A little history on Game Plan
Game Plan, Inc. was a pinball manufacturer founded in 1978 in Addison, Illinois. The company emerged during the height of the solid-state pinball boom, seeking to carve out a niche in a competitive market dominated by industry giants like Bally, Williams, and Gottlieb. Game Plan initially gained attention by producing cocktail-style pinball machines, compact tables designed for bars and smaller venues. Early models such as Fox Hunt (1978) and Black Velvet (1978) catered to this unique market, helping the company establish itself as an alternative to traditional full-sized machines.
By the late 1970s and early 1980s, Game Plan transitioned to producing full-sized pinball machines, with notable releases like Sharpshooter (1979), designed by former Bally artist Claude Fernandez. Sharpshooter was the company’s most successful game, selling over 4,000 units. However, despite creative themes and solid engineering, Game Plan struggled to compete with the rapid technological advancements and deep rule sets introduced by larger manufacturers. Financial difficulties and declining sales led to the company’s closure in 1985. Though short-lived, Game Plan left a mark on the pinball industry with its distinctive artwork and innovative cabinet designs, making its machines sought-after collectibles among enthusiasts today.
