Bank-A-Ball and Flipper Pool, both designed by Ed Krynski and released by D. Gottlieb & Co. in 1965, share a similar billiard theme with distinctive gameplay modes. Bank-A-Ball is the replay version, notable for being the first pinball machine to feature flipper return lanes. It allows players to collect all 15 pool balls, which are visually represented on the animated backglass. Flipper Pool, the add-a-ball version, focuses on accumulating extra balls rather than replay credits.
Quickie Version:
UTAD.
Go-to Flipper:
Balanced
Risk Index:
Very High
Skillshot(s):
Collect any number you still need; take the “light bumpers” ones first.
Full Rules:
Flipper Pool is a bit more tournament-suitable than its replay sister, Bank-A-Ball, assuming extra balls are left on. Collect 12 pool balls to add a ball; balls 13, 14 and 15 also add a ball. When you get all 15, the balls reset. On standard settings, add-a-balls are also awarded at 2000 and 4000 points. When lit for “mystery,” the side lanes score 100 or 200 points. The bumpers are lit by either side lane at the top and by either return lane to the flippers. By the way, this was the first pinball machine to have the now-standard return lanes. The center stand-up 8-ball target turns the bumpers off. There’s little strategy to speak of, just flip the ball into the bumpers and nudge for the best. The only reason to shoot at a stand-up target is if you need it for an add-a-ball. Gottlieb’s marketing folks made a big deal when this machine came out about the “animated backglass” where the balls scored drop down in the glass box there.
via Bob's Guide