The first so-called “bagatelle” games appeared, including Bally Hoo, Whizz Bang and 5 Star Final. These machines are regarded as the direct predecessors of later pinball machines and marked the beginning of their development.

The “bumper” was introduced, adding active, electrically powered kick elements to the playfield for the first time.

Gottlieb technician Harry Mabs invented the so-called “flipper bats.” They were first used in the model “Humpty Dumpty,” allowing players to actively influence the movement of the ball.

In the early 1950s, mechanical score reels were introduced, providing reliable and clearly visible score displays.

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