Team One, released by Gottlieb in 1977, stands as a quintessential example of the late-era EM “add-a-ball” design. Orchestrated by designer Jeff Brenner with vibrant sports-themed art by the legendary Gordon Morison, this soccer-inspired machine challenges players to master a playfield dominated by two banks of five drop targets. Unlike the high-speed, multi-ball spectacles of the modern era, Team One demands the precision and rhythmic control characteristic of the 1970s, tasking the player with navigating dual inlanes and strategically clearing targets to climb the scoring ladder.
The machine’s heartbeat is its bonus and “WOW” system, which rewards the patient marksman over the frantic flipper. To maximize your score, focus on hitting the drop targets illuminated from behind, which significantly boosts your bonus value compared to standard shots. Advanced players should aim to complete the drop banks before targeting the central bullseye standup; doing so resets the field and secures those coveted “WOWs”—which, in novelty mode, translate into massive 50,000-point payouts. If you find yourself struggling with ball control, a subtle nudge at the top of the playfield can often coax the lower targets into position, while keeping your initial plunge aimed toward the 2 or 3 lanes will help you avoid the dreaded straight-down-the-middle drain.
With only 666 units produced, Team One is a rare, mechanical relic that perfectly captures the spirit of the pitch. It is a game of incremental progress and high-stakes accuracy, where every flick of the flipper must be intentional. Whether you are chasing the bonus multiplier or hunting for the next “WOW” to keep your game alive, Team One remains a masterclass in how Gottlieb utilized simple, clean layouts to create a deeply engaging, tournament-worthy challenge.