Electric Football (1948) – Board Game Guys

Electric Football

Electric Football is a tabletop American football game played on a metal vibrating field. It was invented in 1948 by Norman Sas, who based the game on a vibrating car race game made by Tudor Metal Products Corporation. The early Electric Football models were the first tabletop football game which featured actual moving players as they reacted to the vibrations created by the electromagnet motor under the metal field. Passing and kicking was another unique feature of its design. Electric Football was an immediate success and maintained popularity throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Tudor has sold 70 million Electric Football games to date.

Why is Electric Football Popular?

Electric Football is significant because it was one of the first tabletop football games to feature actual moving players that reacted to the vibrations created by the electromagnet motor under the metal field. It was also unique in that it allowed for passing and kicking. The game was an immediate success and maintained popularity throughout the 1960s and 1970s, with Tudor selling 70 million Electric Football games to date.

Game Components of Electric Football

Metal vibrating field: The game is played on a metal field that can range in size from 24 inches long by 13 inches wide to 61 inches long by 27.5 inches wide.

Plastic players: Detailed, 3D plastic players on bases that react to the field’s vibrations. These players were first introduced in the early 1960s by industrial designer Lee Payne.

Player bases: Each player is attached to a base with “prongs” or “brushes” that can be adjusted to control the player’s movement.

Football: A small slit oval piece of felt, rubberized foam, or leather.

Special players: Figures for passing, kicking, and punting, including the iconic Triple Threat Quarterback (TTQ).

Scoreboard and goal posts: Cardboard backdrop scoreboards and NFL-style goal posts were introduced in later models.

How To Setup Electric Football

Setting up Electric Football involves placing the players on the metal field in formations similar to real football. The bases of the players need to be adjusted using smooth-mouthed pliers to shape the prongs for optimal movement. The field is then turned on using an electric or battery-powered counterbalanced motor, causing the players to move around. Players must be positioned carefully to ensure they move in the desired directions when the field vibrates.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Vibrating field: The metal field vibrates, causing the players to move.

Player control: Players are adjusted on their bases to control their movement.

Passing and kicking: Special players with extended arms or spring legs are used for passing and kicking.

Game objective: To score points by moving the ball down the field and into the end zone, similar to real football.

Audibles and pivots: Coaches can make adjustments during the game to gain an advantage.

Player Experience

Playing Electric Football can be both exhilarating and frustrating. The game requires a lot of setup and adjustment to get the players moving correctly. Once set up, the game can be engaging, especially for those who enjoy the tactile experience of adjusting player bases and watching the chaotic yet strategic movement of the players. However, mastering the game, especially passing, can be challenging and requires practice.

Pros

Historical significance: One of the first electric tabletop games, with a rich history dating back to 1948.

Tactile experience: Players enjoy the hands-on aspect of adjusting bases and controlling player movement.

Family fun: Suitable for all ages, promoting family interaction and competition.

Customization: Players can be customized with different bases and alignments.

Community: Active leagues and tournaments, including national and international competitions.

Cons

Complex setup: Setting up the game can be time-consuming and requires patience.

Frustrating mechanics: Mastering the game, especially passing, can be difficult and frustrating.

Noise: The vibrating field can be loud.

Limited control: Players’ movements can be unpredictable, leading to random outcomes.

Personal Thoughts on Electric Football

Electric Football is a game that appeals to those who appreciate nostalgia and a unique gaming experience. It is ideal for football fans who enjoy a more hands-on, strategic game compared to modern video games. While it may not offer the precise control of digital football games, it provides a fun and engaging way to enjoy the sport in a physical setting. It is particularly suited for families and collectors of vintage toys, as well as those involved in the dedicated Electric Football community.

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