Abstract: A game apparatus is provided comprising a cabinet defining a playing area including a plurality of shelves mounted therein where each of the shelves has disposed thereon a plurality of game pieces. A receiving mechanism is attached to the cabinet for accepting a playing piece. A player aimable, launching mechanism is linked to the receiving mechanism for launching the playing piece towards the aimed at location for the purpose of dislodging some of the game pieces. A redemption mechanism may be provided for accepting any dislodged game pieces to provide a reward in exchange therefor.

Abstract: A ball diverter mechanism for use in directing a ball in a pinball game having an entry path and first and second exit paths. The ball diverter mechanism comprises a solenoid having a plunger movable between a first position wherein the plunger is extended and a second position wherein the plunger is retracted, a first ball contacting surface linked to the plunger, and a second ball contacting surface also linked to the plunger. When the plunger is in the first position, the ball will engage the first ball contacting surface and travel under the second ball contacting surface to cause the ball to be diverted from the entry path to the first exit path. When the plunger is in the second position, the ball will engage the second ball contacting surface and travel over the first ball contacting surface to cause the ball to be diverted from the entry path into the second exit path.

Abstract: The play feature consists of a first surface and second surface for supporting a rolling ball therebetween. The surfaces are made movable relative to one another such that in a first position they support a ball therebetween and in a second position they are spaced far enough apart to allow a ball to fall therebetween. The surfaces are movable relative to one another by a solenoid or other similar driver where the solenoid is controlled by a player operated button. As a ball rides along the first and second surfaces, the player operates the solenoid to move the first and second surfaces apart allowing the ball to fall between the surfaces at a desired location. A plurality of targets, ramps or the like can be provided below the surfaces as target objectives for the player.

Abstract: The ramp consists of a wire rail formed as a helix. The rail extends between a first elevation where the ball enters the ramp to a second, lower elevation where the ball exits the ramp. A straight rail extends through the center of the helical rail for the length thereof. The helical rail is dimensioned such that the distance between it and straight rail is less than the diameter of the ball. As a result, the ball will contact both the straight rail and helical rail simultaneously as it rolls down the helical rail by the force of gravity.