Tiger, released by Gottlieb in 1974, remains a quintessential example of Ed Krynski’s design mastery during the golden age of electromechanical pinball. Featuring vibrant circus-themed artwork by Gordon Morison, this single-player machine leans into the classic “add-a-ball” specialty that defined much of the era’s competitive play. The playfield is a compact, high-tension arena that demands precision, utilizing three pop bumpers and a strategic arrangement of standup targets to keep the ball moving in unpredictable, circus-like patterns.
The machine’s mechanical personality is driven by two standout features: a vari-target and a spinning target, which force the player to balance risky, high-impact shots against the need for steady scoring. A unique upper-right return ball rollunder adds a layer of depth to the geometry, rewarding players who can master the flow and anticipate the rebound. With only 1,100 units produced, it is a sought-after piece for collectors who appreciate the tactile, rhythmic clatter of reel-based scoring and the straightforward, addictive challenge of chasing extra balls in a tight, well-engineered layout.