Ed Cebula

Ed Cebula was an American pinball designer and engineer whose career spanned from the post-war electromechanical era to the rise of solid-state pinball in the 1990s. Beginning in the late 1940s at Genco, he later played a pivotal role in shaping the game lineups at Game Plan, Inc. during the late 1970s and early 1980s. His most significant contributions came as a founding member and lead designer at Data East Pinball, where he co-created some of the industry's most successful licensed machines, including Back to the Future (1990), The Simpsons (1990), and Jurassic Park (1993). Over his decades-long career, Cebula helped bridge the transition between traditional mechanical pinball design and the modern digital age.

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Known for his engineering expertise and ability to translate popular themes into engaging gameplay, Cebula’s work helped define the competitive resurgence of pinball in the early 1990s. His influence was felt across multiple manufacturers, from small independent companies to major industry players. Retiring in 1994, Cebula left behind a legacy of innovation that continues to be appreciated by pinball enthusiasts worldwide. He was later honored as a Pinball Expo Hall of Fame inductee, recognizing his contributions to the industry.