Coney Island’s Lost Penny Arcade Game Factories

Ever wondered what happened to the penny arcade game factories that once thrived on Coney Island? These places were magical, filled with the sounds of clinking coins and the laughter of kids and adults alike. In the early 20th century, Coney Island was the go-to spot for fun and entertainment. Penny arcades were a huge part of that charm. They offered everything from simple mechanical games to early versions of pinball. But as times changed, so did the fate of these beloved arcades. Today, we’ll take a look back at how these game factories came to be, what made them special, and why they eventually disappeared.

The Golden Age of Penny Arcades

Coney Island, once a bustling hub of entertainment, was home to numerous penny arcades. These arcades were filled with fascinating games that captivated visitors. Let's take a look at some of the most iconic game factories that contributed to this golden age.

1. The Mills Novelty Company

The Mills Novelty Company was a major player in the penny arcade scene. Known for its innovative designs, this company produced some of the most beloved games of the era.

• Mills Violano-Virtuoso: A self-playing violin and piano combo that amazed audiences with its lifelike performances.
• Mills Owl Lifter: A strength tester game where players lifted an owl to test their might.
• Mills Baseball: A mechanical baseball game that allowed players to pitch and bat, simulating a real game.

2. The Exhibit Supply Company

Another significant contributor was the Exhibit Supply Company. They specialized in creating games that were both fun and challenging.

• Exhibit Supply Boxing Game: Players controlled mechanical boxers in a thrilling match.
• Exhibit Supply Love Tester: This game measured the "love" between two people, providing endless amusement.
• Exhibit Supply Claw Machine: One of the earliest versions of the claw machine, where players tried to grab prizes.

3. The International Mutoscope Reel Company

The International Mutoscope Reel Company brought a unique twist to penny arcades with their motion picture machines.

• Mutoscope Reel Viewer: A hand-cranked machine that displayed short films, offering a glimpse into early cinema.
• Mutoscope Punching Bag: A game where players punched a bag to test their strength, with scores displayed on a reel.
• Mutoscope Card Vending Machine: Dispensed collectible cards featuring popular movie stars and scenes.

4. The Gottlieb Company

The Gottlieb Company was renowned for its pinball machines, which became a staple in penny arcades.

• Gottlieb Baffle Ball: One of the first pinball games, challenging players to score points by launching balls into targets.
• Gottlieb Humpty Dumpty: Introduced flippers, revolutionizing pinball gameplay.
• Gottlieb Knock Out: A boxing-themed pinball game with vibrant artwork and engaging mechanics.

5. The Bally Manufacturing Corporation

Bally Manufacturing Corporation was another key player, known for its diverse range of arcade games.

• Ballyhoo: A pinball game that became immensely popular, setting the stage for future pinball innovations.
• Bally Rapid Fire: A shooting game where players aimed at moving targets, testing their accuracy.
• Bally Rocket: A space-themed game that captured the excitement of the space race era.

6. The Genco Manufacturing Company

Genco Manufacturing Company produced a variety of games that entertained countless visitors at Coney Island.

• Genco Skill Roll: A game where players rolled balls into scoring holes, requiring both skill and luck.
• Genco Play Ball: A baseball-themed game that simulated the experience of playing a real game.
• Genco Sky Fighter: An aerial combat game where players controlled planes, engaging in dogfights.

7. The Keeney and Sons Company

Keeney and Sons Company added to the excitement with their innovative and engaging games.

• Keeney Submarine: A game where players controlled a submarine, navigating through underwater obstacles.
• Keeney Air Raider: An aerial combat game that tested players' reflexes and strategy.
• Keeney Anti-Aircraft: A shooting game where players aimed at incoming aircraft, defending their territory.

8. The Chicago Coin Machine Company

Chicago Coin Machine Company was known for its diverse range of arcade games that kept visitors entertained for hours.

• Chicago Coin Goalee: A hockey-themed game where players controlled goalies, trying to block shots.
• Chicago Coin Speedway: A racing game that simulated the thrill of high-speed car races.
• Chicago Coin Basketball Champ: A basketball shooting game that challenged players' accuracy and timing.

9. The Seeburg Corporation

Seeburg Corporation made a significant impact with their jukeboxes and arcade games.

• Seeburg Shoot the Bear: A shooting game where players aimed at moving bear targets.
• Seeburg Ray-O-Lite: An early light gun game that tested players' shooting skills.
• Seeburg Chicken Sam: A humorous game where players shot at animated chickens, providing endless laughter.

10. The Rock-Ola Manufacturing Corporation

Rock-Ola Manufacturing Corporation was famous for its jukeboxes, but they also produced some memorable arcade games.

• Rock-Ola Jukebox: A staple in many arcades, playing popular tunes that set the mood.
• Rock-Ola World Series: A baseball game that allowed players to pitch and bat, simulating a real game.
• Rock-Ola Army-Navy: A shooting game where players aimed at targets representing different military branches.

The Legacy of Coney Island's Penny Arcade Game Factories

Coney Island's penny arcade game factories hold a special place in history. These factories produced games that brought joy to countless visitors. The arcades were filled with mechanical wonders that fascinated both kids and adults. Over time, technology advanced, and these games became relics of the past. Yet, their impact remains. They were more than just games; they were a part of the cultural fabric of Coney Island. Today, you can still find some of these vintage games in museums or private collections. They serve as a reminder of a simpler time when a penny could buy a moment of fun. The legacy of these game factories lives on, capturing the imagination of those who remember and those who learn about them. Coney Island's penny arcade games will always be a cherished piece of amusement history.