See Saw, released by Bally in 1970, stands as a quintessential example of the late-era EM design philosophy, masterfully crafted by Ted Zale with the distinct, vibrant aesthetic of artist Christian Marche. This four-player machine leans into the classic Bally architecture, utilizing a symmetrical playfield layout that emphasizes precision and tactical ball control over the flashy, multi-ball chaos that would define later decades. Its charm lies in its mechanical simplicity and the punishing, rhythmic flow generated by its four pop bumpers and two unique mushroom bumpers, which demand a steady hand and a quick eye to navigate.
The gameplay is anchored by a suite of strategic features designed to keep the ball in play, most notably the left-outlane kickback and the right outlane’s ball return gate, which act as vital safety nets for the adventurous player. Zale’s design incorporates a classic center up-post between the flippers—a hallmark of the era—allowing for a moment of reprieve during intense sequences. With two kick-out holes providing high-scoring opportunities and seven rollover buttons scattered to reward map-clearing, the table forces players to prioritize board coverage. The upper ball return gate adds a layer of verticality to the experience, feeding the ball back into the flow and ensuring that the momentum never truly dies.
With only 1,517 units produced, See Saw remains a coveted piece of history for collectors who appreciate the tactile feedback of reel-based scoring and the precise, deliberate engineering of a Zale-designed table. The interplay between the standup targets and the varied bumper types creates a fast, unpredictable environment that belies the machine’s age. Mastering the flow requires an intimate understanding of the playfield’s geometry, making it a rewarding challenge for any enthusiast looking to test their skills against the unforgiving, analog logic of early 1970s pinball.