Pinkitten's ratings
Pinsider Pinkitten has rated 88 machines.
This page shows all all these ratings, and forms Pinkitten's personal top 88.
Rating comments
9.360/10
37 hours ago
Williamston, MI
I’ll admit, I didn’t expect to like playing this game. I’m a fan of the theme, having watched the show as a kid and even enjoying the 2002-2004 movies. I’m still a pretty big Scooby fan. I was blown away by the art package when it was revealed. Very true to the original art, not a modern, revisionist twist on Scooby-Doo. It looks like the first season, and the video content is very good. Spooky made a pin based on the 1969 season 1 and did a fantastic job. But the early reviews…spooked…me. I passed on ordering one. I even passed on used examples at great prices for nearly a year. I finally decided I had to try owning one for myself. I’m so glad I did. Fortunately, mine was dialed-in by the original owner, who ironed out any minor issues. He only experienced a misaligned opto. Otherwise, it’s been solid. I’ve been blown away by the fun shots and deep code. It’s not an easy game, but the pitch seems especially important on this pin. I haven’t explored all the rules yet, and other than unmasking villains, it’s not super clear what the goals are. But the modes are plentiful, and varied. The upper playfield is really fun, with plenty of shots. Cool apron ball locks too. Spooky continues to create unique, original playfield designs. This one is a bit smoother and more flow than Halloween. Both have impressed me lately with their latest codes. My Scooby hasn’t gotten glitchy (yet), which could affect my feelings I’m sure. But so far, the theme integration, visual and audio experience, and gameplay are pretty dazzling. The light show is spectacular too. If Scooby holds up and proves reliable, it will be one of the best new pins I’ve ever added.
7.786/10
11 months ago
Space Shuttle Williams, 1984
Just one more game! This fun pin is all about scoring, like most 80’s pins, still a few years away from mode-based games. The rules are really well done. Multiball is obvious, lock one ball on each side for either 2 or 3 ball multiball. But the really fun challenge is clearing those 3 drop targets to bump the spinner value from 1,000 to as much as 7,000 per spin. Once you get to 4-5k, you can really rip that spinner and start scoring some points! Plus, the bonus multiplier can go to 7x, and the shuttle awards can also help. So, there are a few strategies for putting up a high score. Once you set a goal for yourself, or play with friends and try to outscore each other, this is a fun, fairly simple pin. Theme is well done and very 80’s. Voice callouts are pretty good, but music is basic and repetitive. Sounds are ok otherwise. I wish it had a kickback for that thirsty left outlane. The gate on the right, and the center up-post are helpful. A left kickback woulda been nice. A very fun, nicely designed game. It was evidently very well received in ‘84 and helped keep pinball in the arcades, setting the stage for the DMD era! So thank you, Space Shuttle.
8.520/10
1 year ago
The Godfather (LE) Jersey Jack, 2023
Beautiful pin with some nice improvements on past JJP flaws, like flipper feel and lighting. This game shoots very well, and is very well lit. It features translucent running boards with color-changing LEDs along both inner sides of the cabinet on either side of the playfield. Almost like Pinstadiums but not elevated. They really help brighten the playfield. Art package is a knockout. JJP builds quality pins and The Godfather is no exception. Well made, with some innovative design ideas and shots that can surprise you due to the use of several diverters. It’s fun to play, and feels unique and unlike any other pin. It’s not perfect, the hideout shot is Houdini tight, and this pin features a mini orbit/horseshoe shot behind the bad guy up the middle that can be a SDTM problem. The content at the moment, is a mixture of licensed Godfather audio/video, and some original/generic gangster callouts. However, 1.04 code is expected to feature far more audio and video clips, which will only make this game better. It’s very multiball heavy, but you can make those modes harder to start in the settings. There are few pins with arguably no weaknesses (Godzilla, MM, AFM), but JJP has produced several gorgeous, well-made pins with deep code and some cool features. POTC and Wonka are great games. Godfather isn’t far behind, and is as good or better in some ways. Theme could affect how some enjoy this one, but I’m a fan of the GF movies and I am enjoying owning this pin. A quality JJP entry.
8.149/10
1 year ago
Big Guns Williams, 1987
Big Guns. Recognize-able for its tall, oversized head. Two huge canon mechs launch the balls across the playfield into wireforms, returning to lower flippers. Load them, shoot up the middle and start multiball. During multiball, a timed mode starts where you must complete certain shots to rescue the princess. All the ideas and concepts aren’t exactly perfectly expressed. The canons are neat, they also take up a lot of space and make the playfield narrow and symmetrical. The upper flippers are fun, and the game features lots of things to shoot for. The artwork is fun, the music and callouts are good. The game even features 3 different ball saves and a very tricky skill shot that truly requires skill. Unique, inspired, creative. It does have that “one more game” appeal. Has many things going for it. Has its place in a larger collection.
7.298/10
1 year ago
Hurricane Williams, 1991
Not a bad sequel to Cyclone, which was itself an improvement on Comet. Unlike Cyclone, which really built on what made Comet fun, Hurricane isn’t the upgrade on Cyclone it could have been. It has a DMD, but doesn’t take much advantage of it. I do like the ramps better on Hurricane. The looping Hurricane ramp is impressive, and is always fun to plunge and see in action 3 different ways (plunge, Hurricane ramp and return from double Ferris wheel). Other than the Hurricane ramp, it’s not really better than Cyclone. The single drop target for the mystery wheel is gone, replaced by a “dunk the dummy” stand up target that is high risk. There is a 3-bank of drop targets on the left, which is nice. The double wheel isn’t much of an upgrade on the single one, it just takes a couple seconds longer. I like the Ferris wheel mechs on both games. The juggler is really a pretty boring toy. It’s really just a VUK that kicks the ball over to another scoop and into the pops. I like the juggler on Cirqus Voltaire better. This isn’t a bad pin at all. If you enjoy Cyclone, you should enjoy this pin too. It has a couple minor upgrades on Cyclone, but also loses a couple features Cyclone offers. The cab art is pretty bad, although the playfield art by Python is well done, again, as is the backglass and spinning wheel. The animations are limited and don’t add much to the experience, and the callouts get repetitive. “Hey, ugly.” Still, I enjoy playing Hurricane, and often prefer to play it over my Cyclone. A modern version, with full lcd monitor and several mechs combining all the best features of these carnival pins, would be pretty cool!
7.496/10
1 year ago
Cyclone Williams, 1988
Fun pin from the late 80’s, second in the trio of carnival pins is better than Comet, in my opinion, with fun ramps, good risk/reward shots and a cool skill shot. I like the carnival theme, so I’m a fan of this group of games. The Where’s Waldo style playfield art by Python is really well done and fits these games well. The cab art is another matter, as pins were just starting to get full detail cab art, not just simple shapes and bland paint jobs of earlier pins. But by 1988, the cab art could have been much more fun. No excuse for Hurricane cab art to be so horrendous by 1991 however. The mystery shot behind the single drop target is fun also, and can be risky. Ferris wheel is a cute, simple mech. This is a decent, challenging pin with some fun ramps and looks like it should be easier than it is, so you want to hit start again and again. Hey, you with the face!
8.780/10
1 year ago
Rush (Premium) Stern, 2022
Fantastic music pin from Stern feels like a unique, complex playfield design instead of another vanilla game that feels like they mailed it in. This pin has flow for days, with an excellent sound package integrating music into each mode, and custom band call outs. I’m still learning the rules, which are pretty complicated from what I’ve seen. It’s a little thin on toys, but makes up for that with an insane number of shots, ramps, diverters and VUKs. Good luck keeping track of your ball, or balls during one of many multiballs. I like several Rush songs, but I prefer Led Zep music. This is the game Led Zep should have been. Frantic, chaotic and seldom stopped, this one is just fun to shoot, even if you aren’t sure exactly what your strategy or goals are. Crank up the volume and enjoy the ride.
8.872/10
1 year ago
Halloween (Collectors Edition) Spooky Pinball, 2021
Like many new owners of this title I ordered my CE before I ever played a single ball, I’m such a fan of the theme. Having now played the game dozens of times, I’m convinced Spooky did a fantastic job designing this game. The theme integration, music and atmosphere are perfect. Some licensed pins feel like the game is missing key content (JP2, imho), but not here. They squeezed every last drop out of the movie soundtrack to fill out the modes and attract sounds and effects. The artwork is very impressive and original, and not simply cut/paste/photoshop. The cabinet features awesome Halloween pumpkins for the speaker and flipper covers, and the topper is one of the best. The gameplay is very good, with several ramps that are well-placed and feed the upper 2 playfields. The game has a ton of things to do, and even the 3 hedge shots are fun to make. My fav music is the main theme used in Hedge Multiball. The game has a good balance of flow, with a fair amount of stop/go. That’s hard to avoid with so many playfields and places to shoot the ball. Some clever innovation with the VUKs feeding the inlanes too. The callouts aren’t great. I’m not sure who the girl is supposed to be (a kid? Lynda?) and Loomis is ok sometimes and some callouts are pretty off. Plus, they use some original audio movie quotes, which I prefer to the actors. But, all the callouts really help direct the player, and this game is very good at doing that. Some people don’t like the animations, but I’m ok with them. Durability remains to be seen, but I was impressed with TNA. This is a very impressive offering from Spooky, regardless of theme. The only criticism I’d give is the game is very hard to play. It’s not a casual shooter where an average player can easily do well. You really have to use skill to finish modes or collect jackpots during multiball. So it can be a bit frustrating. But for me, they totally nailed Halloween, my favorite classic horror movie.
7.888/10
2 years ago
Road Show Williams, 1994
Recently added this game and it’s been fun exploring it and trying to advance further west. This is such a Pat Lawlor game. Lots of unusual and cross-playfield shots keep the action interesting. Double plunger setup like Funhouse, plus two talking, ball-eating heads make this a unique expansion of ideas Lawlor used in Funhouse. The ramps are fun to shoot, the blast zone is a cool shot and most shots are easy to make, except the Bob’s bunker/lock shot and Red jackpot. The code is well known to be fairly linear, advancing east to west as you visit cities and collect objects. There is more to do along the way, and although a widebody, the game doesn’t feel floaty and instead features pretty good flow. The music and callouts are a bit silly and repetitive, to me. The artwork is decent, and the theme is very Lawlor, with elements of travel, construction, weather, and natural disasters seen in other games like Earthshaker and Dialed In. Still a lot of pinball for the money, but it’s not the steal it was years ago. One of the best of the “second tier” of 90’s era pins, not quite as good as the classics from that era, but better than many of the others.
8.523/10
2 years ago
Cirqus Voltaire Bally, 1997
Finally added a CV and so far I have been pleasantly surprised. Totan is one of my fav pins, and CV feels like a quirky cousin to Totan. Some unique design features and mechs. It’s original, and innovative. It’s not super deep, but there is plenty to do. The music and callouts can get a bit repetitive, but maybe other ROMs or Pinsound exist. Great looking game, with the scrolls and lime green color this game will never be confused with any other. Ringmaster is a worthy focal point and main mech. Very interactive toy. A couple other multiball locks keep it interesting, with the high wire locks and juggler. The unique location of the dmd works very well, and frees up the backbox for a canon toy that launches a ball into a bell. Then the ball drops onto a spinning toy or possibly through a bonus switch. It’s a cute gimmick but isn’t super interactive. This is one of the most original pins and playfield designs from a great era. It’s not the masterpiece that totan is, or even as good as TOM, imho, but it’s not far behind.
I’m not sure it’s a long-term keeper, but it could be.
I’m not sure it’s a long-term keeper, but it could be.
8.740/10
2 years ago
Total Nuclear Annihilation Spooky Pinball, 2017
Great, original reimagining of a throwback pin. Pretty simple rules - shoot the grid to charge up the reactor, start the reactor, hit the upper pf area to overheat the reactor, then destroy the reactor! Repeat, repeat and repeat again! Lock balls in the awesome stand ups to multiply your bonus. A few other ways to score, but the simplicity is part of the fun. It’s not confusing, it’s just fast as lightning and punishing. Co-op mode is where the game really shines, with up to 4 players working together to destroy 9 reactors. Music is intense and fun. This game seems to speak to some players and not others, but many feel this is a masterpiece. Scott D. showed me how to play this game and soon after that I had to have one. I really enjoyed owning one, and probably will again someday. Hoping for a 2.0!
9.220/10
2 years ago
Attack From Mars (Remake - Classic) Chicago Gaming Co., 2017
Classic 90’s pin is perhaps the most approachable pin for newbies and casual players, as everyone can understand the basic rules and have fun blowing up flying saucers. Much like MM, the theme is fantastic, the music is good and the callouts are funny. Wide open fan layout makes the game pretty fast and game times are often shorter than you’d expect. It’s not a hard game to play, but control is key with all the wide open spaces and mistakes can be deadly. I mostly dismissed this game in the past, not really appreciating what all the fuss was about. But now that I own one, I really enjoy this game and can see the genius of the design, so simple to play but very hard to master. Perfect pin to walk up and flip without having to think too much. It’s a beautiful machine too. MM has a little more to do, but both pins deserve consideration as “best ever.”
9.165/10
2 years ago
Medieval Madness (Remake - Standard) Chicago Gaming Co., 2015
THE one and only. This highly original game arrived a couple years after AFM and somehow improved on it with more to do and even better humor. Probably the funniest pin ever, and the music, art and theme are well integrated. The 2 ramps are a blast to shoot. The catapult is genius, and makes even better use of the ramp. The castle might be the best toy ever made, with a drawbridge AND a gate to defeat, plus you can blast thru the wall with a solid shot. All that would be plenty, plus you get two pop-up trolls who make life difficult. I always liked this game and respected it, but now I see this game for the masterpiece it is. I let it go once. Never again.
9.580/10
3 years ago
Pirates of the Caribbean Jersey Jack, 2018
What a game. Not since TZ in 1993 did a game feel this loaded. A true work of art and passion project by Eric M. at JJP. This game felt a bit overwhelming when it first came out, maybe even too complex for it's own good. Choosing a player from about 25 or so was complicated enough before you even plunge the ball. But once you understand how each character advantage sets up your game, it makes sense and adds plenty of variety to how you approach that game. Five movies are represented well on the playfield with 5 color coded areas, and the lights, inserts and callouts direct you during modes. Stacking movie multiballs is great, and feels like a deeper version of LOTR code. The shot variety is bonkers, like 13 main shots (that I counted) and probably more. This game is a real adventure and should keep owners busy and entertained for years. JJP is doing special things with their games. All JJP pins so far are fantastic, and this one really is the complete package. This game is dazzling and immersive even if you aren't familiar with all the movies. The only downside is they didn't make very many of these. A masterpiece.
8.328/10
3 years ago
X-Men (LE) Stern, 2012
I owned a Magneto LE and was impressed with Borg's design. If you like Tron, this feels similar but the playfield is reversed and it features more shots. The Magneto ball lock is clever and the ice ramp adds a twist. Add in 2 pop-up targets and this game is pretty busy. The ramps are fun to shoot, and the artwork is good. I'm not sure why exactly, but I prefer Tron to X-Men despite Tron being a bit simpler. Maybe it's the theme. X-Men is a good game. The giant Wolverine and Magneto are maybe a little silly, but it's just pinball after all! The spinning disc multiball that throws the balls in every direction is pretty cool, and came back later in TMNT. This game probably would be a keeper now, but I was eager to try other pins and let it go.
8.048/10
3 years ago
Led Zeppelin (Pro) Stern, 2020
Fans of Led Zeppelin will be satisfied with the pro, especially if you prefer the Led Zep III artwork, like I do. The art package is very good, and the animations and clips of the band work nicely. The rules are fairly simple and easy to understand. This isn't a deep game, it's a game for music and pinball fans who want to rock out to LZ and shoot some nice ramps. Multiball is pretty easy to get, and you can backhand both the 2 left ramps, which is nice when you choose the concert mode calling for 6 ramp shots. Each concert mode has a scoring requirement, but lets you pick which one you want (6 ramps, 5 orbits, 70 spinners, etc.) That's a nice feature. The orbit is smooth and you can really rip the spinner. This is a straightforward pin that casual pinball fans will enjoy. The only downsides to the pro are the lack of any real mechs or toys to interact with, and the upper flipper has nothing to do, and the plunge into 3 standups isn't very exciting. The little lane ending in a standup target may be one of the worst designs I've seen on a pin. At least put a scoop or maybe a magnet there to stop the ball. Instead it just bounces off the standup and guarantees loss of control, with no real payoff for taking the shot. The premium and LE feature a 4th ramp there, which returns the ball to the right flipper, which is key. Plus, the LE and premium feature the magic rising mech with spinner and magnet and lock feature. Those are notable improvements. On some games the upgrades on the premium and LE don't matter much to some players. These seem important. But the pro is a great looking pin, with some fun, smooth ramp and orbit shots. It's easy to walk up to and play, and the music is great. I wasn't sure how much I would enjoy jamming to Led Zep and progressing through songs, but the game is really fun to play. A decent addition to the music collection. Just how much better the premium and LE are depends on how well the rising mech works, and how much you value the 4th ramp.
8.340/10
3 years ago
Black Knight 2000 Williams, 1989
Fast, innovative and original. BK2000 took the huge upper playfield concept from the original and added the bridge. Very clever and requires real skill and timing to hit that upper bridge ramp consistently. True, the game is essentially all about the upper pf and hitting the upper ramp to start Ransom mode or multiball. But, with a kickback, Magna save, 3 ways to reach the upper pf and deadly speed, this game is a thrill to play. Throw in a killer soundtrack and funny callouts, and you have a pin worthy of legend status. One of the best Sys11 for sure.
8.780/10
3 years ago
Twilight Zone Bally, 1993
TZ. The follow-up to Pat Lawlor’s best-selling TAF. The story is well-known in the pinball world, Bally gave Lawlor a free hand and big budget to take this dream theme and do pretty much anything he wanted. The result is a mechanically complex game that does a good job of expressing the TZ universe, maybe not quite as well as TAF did. A widebody with 4 flippers, several magnets, clever mechs and toys, an upper pf and cool skill shot. The rules, completing the door panels to reach “Lost in the Zone” wizard mode, are well done. Not especially deep, but adequate for the early 90’s. The unique shots and flow make this one stand out. There is plenty to discover and explore. It’s a fun shooter and tricky at first. Really plays and feels different than anything else out there. Once you get the hang of where the shots are, this game comes alive. Deserving of its reputation and ranking.
7.752/10
3 years ago
Black Rose Bally, 1992
Black Rose is a good game, especially for 1992. 2 distinctive ramps, with one going around behind the back of the playfield. A third ramp on the upper left raises, similar to BSD to expose a scoop leading to a subway which loads the cannon. This game has fairly simple code, and really is mostly about the cannon shot up the middle to sink ships. The cannon is a cool toy, and works well when dialed in. Not the smoothest shooter I’ve played, but the design is good, the theme is well-realized and it’s a challenge to sink several ships. Very different from potc, but a fun early dmd pin in its own right.
9.020/10
3 years ago
The Big Lebowski Dutch Pinball, 2016
Beautiful game with really perfect theme integration, sound, music, call outs and art. It’s bright and easy to understand what to do after just a game or two. Fit and finish is good, especially for a new company. The code isn’t finished, but it doesn’t feel shallow. There is enough to do for most players, for now. Hopefully it gets an update at some point. The toys and creativity are excellent. Overall, it’s a really fun game with terrific video clips and movie integration. It’s not a bummer, man!
8.362/10
3 years ago
Elvira and the Party Monsters Bally, 1989
Fun game is pretty difficult for a Sys11, especially if set up fast and steep. Rules are straightforward but reasonable for that era. The 2 ramps feel good to hit, and the gimmicks and toys like the boogie men and grave stones are iconic now that we have a trilogy. The backglass art is fantastic. Overall, this is a fun pin that looks good and has cool ramps and decent rules. Not deep, but not easy to beat either. A good Sys11 game that paved the way for Scared Stiff and House of Horrors. That alone is pretty awesome.
EDIT- 6 months later I now own one of these, and I like this game more and more. The music and hurry up modes are exciting, especially the 3 million shot. There are several ways to achieve a high score, but you have to work for it. This is a worthy entry in the Elvira series!
EDIT- 6 months later I now own one of these, and I like this game more and more. The music and hurry up modes are exciting, especially the 3 million shot. There are several ways to achieve a high score, but you have to work for it. This is a worthy entry in the Elvira series!
8.270/10
3 years ago
Demolition Man Williams, 1994
Just added this pin and I just can’t stop hitting that start button. This pin is simply a blast to play. The gun handles are really unique and add a highly immersive element to the experience. Something about holding onto the grips and using the thumb buttons to launch the ball and choose your modes is very satisfying. It’s more than just a gimmick, it works great and adds to the fun. The rules are easy to understand, and there is just enough to do. The modes are nicely varied, and there are some other mini modes and hurry ups to achieve. I also like the captive eye and car crash, even tho they are highly risky shots. But where this pin really shines is in the gameplay. Flow, flow, flow. Ramps all day. 3 fantastic Nordman ramps, with terrific placement so that you can really string combos together. The upper flipper shots are excellent. This is a widebody but doesn’t feel like one. It’s fast, fun and engaging. Ball times can be short if you miss a shot or two, it can be punishing. But not unfairly, it feels reasonably hard. My only complaint is with the cab art and especially the translite. The renditions of the actors just doesn’t look great, to me at least. The cab art is sorta bland. It’s ok, but it’s pretty boring. Overall, this is one of the most fun pins around. The swear ROMs add some funny adult callouts too. These are somehow still selling for less than most Bally/WMS pins from the 90s, making this one of the best, most underrated bargains around.
7.943/10
3 years ago
Johnny Mnemonic Williams, 1995
Another pretty good pin based on a not-so-good movie (The Shadow, Congo, etc.) This game plays very fast, and it can be over quick if you don’t take care of the ball and really shoot the Crazy Bob scoop consistently. The modes are unique and varied, and the rules are good overall. I like how dangerous the center shot is, if you haven’t qualified it and released the drop target by hitting Crazy Bob’s scoop. That single drop target is a killer. The glove is a creative gimmick. It can be a bit clunky and glitchy, but is fun when it works right, allowing you to choose your bonus awards and build your 3-ball multiball. The game feels a little cramped sometimes and the artwork feels sorta industrial and gritty. Translite art isn’t great, another with people’s faces from the movie. Cabinet art is decent, but simple and often faded. This one is still a good bang-for-the-buck pin, and a nice challenge and break from longer quest-type games. Just be sure the glove is working 100%, or this game is far more limited. A pretty good mid-90’s pin.
EDIT: Now on my second JM, and I more fully understand the rules now. The 5 modes and main glove multiball are fun, but there is more to do with the throwing stars and tricky video mode. Spinner millions is a blast and is risky to pursue. Dialed in, this is one of the more underrated 90s titles. I’m keeping this one.
EDIT: Now on my second JM, and I more fully understand the rules now. The 5 modes and main glove multiball are fun, but there is more to do with the throwing stars and tricky video mode. Spinner millions is a blast and is risky to pursue. Dialed in, this is one of the more underrated 90s titles. I’m keeping this one.
8.572/10
3 years ago
Elvira's House of Horrors (Premium Edition) Stern, 2019
My first impression at Expo in October was, great haunted house toy, decent fan layout, good artwork loyal to Elvira and shallow code. I liked JP2 better at that point. I’ve owned them both now, and I now prefer EHoH. The code is fantastic. The rules are quite deep and there is a lot of B movie content and original video and callouts by Elvira. The house features 4 entrances, including the shot under the porch ramp (which needs to be rewarded more in future code) along with 2 ramps, 2 orbits, and a sneaky side-entry into the trunk. I’m impressed so far, and we are only at .95. I love SS, and I play mine a lot. But I’m very pleasantly surprised by this latest installment.
7.675/10
4 years ago
Star Wars (Home Edition) Stern, 2019
My wife and I played this little Star Wars home-pin and we were surprised how well it played. I’m not a fan of the Stern Star Wars pro or premium, but we did enjoy the shots on this game more. George Gomez made a very accessible pin with simple and satisfying shots. The art looks pretty good too. It’s a good-looking game, it’s Star Wars! Sadly, it’s easy to see the price cutting everywhere, and serious collectors probably won’t find this to be acceptable. The digital tv screen is quite small and difficult to read during gameplay. This would be a cute starter pin for kids or newbies at maybe $1999. But at $4k or more, you can and should do better.
7.364/10
4 years ago
No Fear: Dangerous Sports Williams, 1995
Fast, faster, fastest. What do you expect from a Steve Ritchie design based on an extreme sports theme, complete with talking skull and an innovative jump ramp? No pop bumpers to slow you down, or give you a second to regroup. 3 ramps, including the infamous jump ramp, which is achieved with an upper, 3rd flipper. It’s the ultimate fan layout, with 8 or so shots all lined up next to each other. The modes are straightforward, and there are several of them. Nice video mode. I like kickbacks, and this game features one. This is a unique game, fast and deliberately punishing. But once you get a feel for the shots, it’s not overly difficult. For what they were shooting for, an “extreme sports” feel captured in a pinball machine, they did a fine job. Probably not best in a small collection, but has a place in a larger one.
8.784/10
4 years ago
Tales of the Arabian Nights Williams, 1996
This pin is definitely on my short list of games I would love to own. The theme, art, music, and gimmicks are really unique and immersive. The main ramp is perhaps the best ever, certainly one of the best. Nice ball locks, cool ball-save spikes and wicked cool disappearing ball to start multiball. It’s just a blast to play, and the rules are pretty easy to follow. 7 main modes, jewels to collect and other awards. Plus the skill shot requires skill. Everything just works together so well. This is a masterpiece of pinball. Some critics say it’s too easy or simple to beat. I feel some pins can be beatable and still be among the best ever. Scared Stiff isn’t too hard to finish the 6 modes and start the Stiff-o-Meter, but it’s just a blast to play. Only downside, very pricey and artwork is sorta weird. The backglass art depicts some kind of ancient, erotic picnic or something. But this pin is truly one of the best ever.
EDIT - I was very fortunate to find a beautiful example. This is simply one of the best, most inspired and creative pins ever made. The rules aren't deep by today's standards, but for the mid 90's are on par. What sets this apart is the incredible flow and perfect use of diverters and magnets. The ramp, which is really just one ramp with several diverters, is amazing. I can't say enough about this game. It's everything I hoped it would be when I added it to my wishlist. This is a top 5 pin for me.
EDIT - I was very fortunate to find a beautiful example. This is simply one of the best, most inspired and creative pins ever made. The rules aren't deep by today's standards, but for the mid 90's are on par. What sets this apart is the incredible flow and perfect use of diverters and magnets. The ramp, which is really just one ramp with several diverters, is amazing. I can't say enough about this game. It's everything I hoped it would be when I added it to my wishlist. This is a top 5 pin for me.
8.052/10
4 years ago
World Cup Soccer Bally, 1994
WCS94 is one of the best dollar-for-dollar values in pinball. It's a soccer theme, which had been done before, but this game offers more than the other versions. It features the expected soccer goal and goalie, which is a fun and satisfying shot. But this game offers a lot more than just that. The spinning soccer ball is really a fantastic idea, and it works both visually and physically, causing chaos and unpredictability with your ball. If you ball touches that spinning soccer ball, by the time it reaches your flippers it can have some crazy spin on it. Control is pretty important in this game. The shots are actually pretty varied, but the shots up the middle must be precise, as the middle part of the playfield is narrow. The game includes ALOT of features. It has a kickback, several scoops (including one directly in front of the goal which can be used to shoot goals up close - great idea!) 2 excellent ramps and a magna-save above the left flipper. It also features an upper playfield with a magnet for ball saves. The goalie moves left and right to block your shots, and there are 2 more scoops, one near the goal, a "striker" shot and another for TV modes and mystery awards. For a soccer theme, this game offers a lot of variety and some very fun shots and good flow. The music and callouts are ok, perhaps a bit repetitive, but not bad. The artwork is ok, but the cabinet and translite could have been more interesting. The game looks great with mirror blades. This game features some similar shots as other hits of that era, like Scared Stiff, with 2 flowing ramps and a center toy to shoot. With the magna-save and kickback and upper magnet ball lock, this game arguably offers a lot more than SS, but costs half has much. Great game for any skill level too, as beginners can shoot goals, while seasoned players will be challenged to beat countries and get to the final wizard mode. A really solid entry from a legendary era, this one is a winner.
8.240/10
4 years ago
Jurassic Park (Pro) Stern, 2019
JP is a shooter for sure. Terrific layout with lots of challenging shots make this one an excellent player. The JP theme isn’t perfectly captured here due to limited licensing, but it’s got enough of JP in the music, callouts and animations to satisfy most JP fans. The code is coming along, but the game still feels a little vague in terms of what you are supposed to do and when, but it’s far better than when it was released. The artwork is decent, and the sound, when really cranked, really rumbles and pulls you in. Great use of a shaker motor in this game too. Had the shot layout been less skillfully designed, this would be a bit of a dissapointment. However, the playfield design is one of the best in recent years, with lots of shots and plenty of things to keep you busy for a long time. It feels very deep, and I’ve just scratched the surface of what’s to see and do in this game. It deserves much of the praise it gets.
7.772/10
4 years ago
Indianapolis 500 Bally, 1995
Fun, fast and brutal. Punishes missed shots more than most pins, but doesn’t feel unfair, just demanding. Two steep ramps are fun to shoot (Dennis Nordman staple of that era), and the fast orbits and flow does fit the race car theme. Good call outs, ok video mode. Game really focuses on the laps and position, not mode variety. The shots are a bit limited, and the scoop at the top, fed by another scoop and upkicker just below to the right is a little odd. For example, the lower scoop can give awards like “lite extra ball,” then immediately kicks the ball into the upper scoop and awards it. Strange. The game features speed, nice theme integration and short games that make you want to try again. It’s a really nice addition to a larger collection.
7.787/10
4 years ago
Safe Cracker Bally, 1996
When Pat Lawlor's legacy is written, Safe Cracker deserves a prominent chapter. What an innovative, gutsy project this must have been. I suspect it was the mid-late 90s and pinball was feeling the decline in interest. The idea of a series of pins that were slightly smaller, but offered a challenging pinball game plus a video/board game in the backglass was very clever and inspired. I heard this was supposed to be the first of many "magic token" pins, that would award tokens which could be used to play other magic token pins. Except just over 1000 Safe Crackers were produced, and the game did not revolutionize pinball. Remember Baby PacMan? This pin is actually an exceptional realization of a pinball game hybrid, with a video/board game in the head. You try to enter the bank by disabling the alarm at one of three possible entry points (the basement, roof and main entrance). Once you enter the bank, you turn your attention to the backglass, where a video boardgame begins. You basically roll virtual dice to advance your position toward the bank vault. Along the way, guards can chase you, robot dogs can send you back to the pinball game, and you can earn money or more time. The game is also innovative because you are playing against the clock, with a certain amount of time to access the bank, and then enter the vault and win magic tokens. Great concept, very well designed. Didn't change the industry, but with just over 1000 examples, these are valuable, especially with all the tokens and cabinet wings. A memorable chapter in Pat Lawlor's distinguished career.
8.332/10
4 years ago
Congo Williams, 1995
Recently added Congo on a hunch, based partly on positive reviews. Traded a very nice pin for a very nice example of Congo with a new playfield and LED OCD board. With LEDs, this game looks amazing. Tremendous lighting, especially with mirror blades. The game has some great shots, with 2 very fun ramps and three flippers. Honestly, the game is impressive despite a lackluster lower playfield. Had that lower pf been better designed to require careful shooting, like Black Hole, it could have been a legendary pin. Instead, the lower pf is meh, but the upper pf has good shots and decent music, good rules and decent dots. It's not a top 20 pin, but deserves it's top 50 spot. Very happy with our trade.
7.274/10
4 years ago
Black Hole Gottlieb, 1981
Black Hole was no doubt a highly innovative game in its day. In 1981, electronic speech synthesizers were still quite primitive, and while not the first to feature speech, it offered a few phrases and a soundtrack that helped the mood of the game. The obvious gimmick or unique feature is the lower playfield, and it works quit well. Having to play backwards with the lower playfield inverted was clever. It’s not an easy game either, despite the floaty feel. Locking balls on the upper and lower playfield to start multiball is quite a challenge. Like Haunted House, some playfield design features feel a little arbitrary, like the single lower left pop bumper. The rules are pretty good, if simple. Scoring is tight, it’s hard to get a high score. This game is easily recognized for its unique, 3-D, rotating backglass. For 1981, this was a nice early solid state pin that looked cool, featured an innovative lower playfield and decent rules. It’s obviously a different game than those produced in the 1990s hayday of pinball and since, but for its time, this was a special game.
7.659/10
4 years ago
Who Dunnit Bally, 1995
Fun theme feels a bit like a Choose Your Own Adventure combined with Clue. Only problem is, it's not as fully realized as it could have been. Shots are pretty good, and the game plays well and the slot machine is fun. The game features 5 scoops and a ramp that raises and lowers, similar to the bicycle girl ramp on TWD premium. Skill shot is fun and challenging. Was able to add one of these for a fairly low price, and with modest expectations, this game has impressed so far. The jazzy, moody music is fantastic. Until they remake this one with improved code and complexity, or make "Clue," this 1995 game from Bally will have to fill the murder mystery genre. Glad we found one.
8.440/10
4 years ago
Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory (LE) Jersey Jack, 2019
This is a solid, if "safe" entry from JJP. It feels good to shoot and plays pretty smooth, the art is good and the rules and goals seem good. The key word is "good," it's just not great. It scores high marks in most areas, so it's possibly the best all-around pin JJP has released. (I haven't played POTC enough to compare the two). I've owned the other 3, and while WOZ looks better and is more dazzling and complex in terms of toys, Wonka shoots better and is more fun to play. Wonka doesn't hit the theme out of the park like Hobbit, and Dialed In! has a more innovative feel to it. But, where those games had weaknesses, Wonka has few. It just doesn't feel like a big step forward for JJP and Pat Lawlor after the incredibly promising Dialed In! Don't get me wrong, this is yet another very competent, stylish game with some cool features and some really clever shots, as usual from Pat L. It feels pretty solid and well-made. It gets the job done in the art department. It's just not quite as amazing as I was expecting, but it's close and another fantastic entry from JJP! Fairly easy to understand how to play, as well as shooting the 2 main ramps. Other shots are more difficult, as is locking the 3 glass elevator balls. Tons of multiball modes and other goals, there is plenty to do. I did find myself wanting to play over and over again. Edit- I finally own one after almost 3 years. I raised my rating slightly, but my initial impression is largely the same. This is a very fun pin with a great theme, solid design with just enough good shots, and a couple cute toys. Not the dazzling achievement WOZ was, or as innovative as DI, but it’s more fun than any other JJP I’ve played. I don’t see me selling this one.
7.635/10
4 years ago
Dirty Harry Williams, 1995
Picked up a really nice DH for a good price. The cabinet art is decent, playfield art is just ok. The rules are easy to understand and deep enough, with 7 or 8 modes to get to the Wizard mode. Plus the game features several multiball modes, hurry-ups and other tasks. The shots appear wide open at first look, but this pin requires careful shooting to do well. The 2 ramps must be hit squarely to make it, and the gun requires careful timing. I do find myself wanting to play this one again and again. It has some really fun features and plenty to shoot for, including 3 scoops and a magnet that sets up your shots from the upper (3rd) flipper. The game has 2 ramp diverters too. I found this pin to be a bit underrated, and more fun and with more to do than I expected. Custom callouts by Clint too. Happy to have added this 90s sleeper.
8.544/10
4 years ago
The Shadow Bally, 1994
Underrated pin is among the better games in terms of shots, flow and rules. Theme is just ok, unless you are a fan of the movie. The alternate translite/art package by Aurich is a big improvement. Player-controlled ramp diverters is innovative, and works well. Great ball lock, and fun modes. Upper pf game is a nice challenge. This pin offers a lot, especially while it remains an underrated sleeper at a “reasonable” price. This is a pin people seem to hold onto. A keeper.
7.634/10
4 years ago
Dr. Dude Bally, 1990
Dr. Dude is a fun, well-designed system 11 game from Bally. Like most System 11 games, it's not very deep. However, this pin feels ahead of it's time with a few features. Namely, the magnet in the playfield and the spinning "mix-master" disc (like the disc in Tron, POTC or CSI). The layout is pretty good, if a bit basic fan layout. The shots feel pretty good, and the concept is fun. You just have to hit 3 shots - the left magnet "Magnetic Personality," the center "Heart of Rock 'n Roll standup target, and the scoop on the right for "Gift of Gab." Once you hit each of these shots 2 or 3 times, the game tells you the mix-master is ready, and you shoot the ramp. If you make the ramp shot to the mixmaster, the Excellent Ray is ready. You shoot the left scoop shot, and the ray activates and turns you from an "ordinary dude" to a "cool" dude and so forth. You can keep playing game after game, without losing your progress. Smart for coin-op on location. The concept is funny, the artwork is pretty good. Overall, this is a really nice pin and a partner to Party Zone. You can get a decent one pretty cheap too, if you can find it.
7.328/10
4 years ago
24 Stern, 2009
Challenging Steve Richie pin may not be beautiful, by any means, but is somewhat difficult to advance to the wizard mode because with so much wide open space in the middle of the playfield, your ball is often in danger. Fits the theme of the show very well. Chaos, explosions, gunfire, snipers, etc. I understand this pin was made during a precarious time at Stern. Other than LOTR LE, only 24 and NBA were produced by Stern in 2009. After that, Avatar, Big Buck Hunter, and Rolling Stones escaped the factory. Iron Man and Tron thankfully arrived in 2010 and 2011. And 2008 saw BDK, CSI, Shrek, and Indy Jones, all personal favs of mine. But 24 simply feels like low-budget pinball, to me at least. There is SO much shrinky-dink plastic art and toys on this playfield. It's not the most handsome pin ever made, but it does play well despite the somewhat cheap looking toys. The Safehouse, the helicopter, the jet and the Sniper's den are all made of that thin, shrinky-dink plastic. The suitcase is more inspired, and looks like a metal suitcase. Most shots are packed at the top of the playfield, which means the ball is rolling every which way and is soon in danger. You simply cannot just flip the ball casually and score well on this one. You must plan and shoot very carefully. The Sniper lane is very tight, and difficult to hit. The orbits feel good, and the game plays pretty fast. They didn't make many, so there is demand for this game. I owned a very clean example for a few weeks and when I listed it for sale, it sold very quickly. Not a great pin for a small collection, but for a large one, or for fans of the show, you could do worse.
Update- found a minty example about 10 months after selling my first 24 and grabbed it. I enjoy this pin for what it is. Plus I like finding pins that are a bit rare.
Update- found a minty example about 10 months after selling my first 24 and grabbed it. I enjoy this pin for what it is. Plus I like finding pins that are a bit rare.
8.372/10
4 years ago
Star Trek (Pro) Stern, 2013
Flow, flow, flow. And more flow. It's not as complex or deep as STTNG. It's arguably a more refined, smoother Spider-Man with easier to hit ramps. I won't argue with those who feel it's too simple and gets boring. I can see how some would feel that way. But, this is the smoothest shooting pin I've ever played, even smoother than Dialed In!. The 3 ramps are satisfying to hit and feel fast and buttery, thanks to wide openings and plastic materials. The Warp ramp is my favorite ramp shot in pinball. It's a fairly simple game, yes. But, it's great for what it is. The premium features more bling, with the fancy lasers and light show. The LE has the blue cabinet and laser-cut rails. But the pro is essentially the same game. Only a kickback and VUK is lacking in gameplay. The alternate translits are fantastic. The blades and mods really add to the art package too. The tinfoil potatoes (asteroids) on the premium and LE are a bit silly. The Vengeance enemy ship is pretty cool, and fun to destroy. Yes, it does get old as a bash toy, but so do most bash toys. If you enjoy fast, smooth shooting pins, this one is my pick for best ever. It's ranked #12 overall, so there is no doubting the overall sentiment - this is a winner. It just isn't super complex or deep. It may not be the best pin in a very small collection, but in a large one? No question!
9.160/10
5 years ago
Monster Bash (Special Edition) Chicago Gaming Co., 2018
Excellent remake by CGC. Their standards, by now, are becoming well-established. Just like with MM and AFM, this game looks, sounds, feels and plays almost exactly like the original, but with some key improvements. The lighting is the most obvious difference, for me. The color-changing LEDs are a nice touch, and each monster mode gets a different color. The scoop is well lit, and the game has a very nice appearance overall. As with AFM and MM, I too feel a slightly "clicky" feel to the flippers. Something mechanical feels slightly different. After getting an SE and playing it many times, I don't necessarily dislike the flippers. I think they are functional and strong. They do feel different than Stern, and even Williams. So, if anything is uniquely CGC, it may be the flippers. I wouldn't really downgrade the game tho. This game is just a fantastic theme, with fairly easy, accessible shots and good rules/code. It's a game you feel you can actually finish, in time. Still, it's not easy to collect all 6 monsters to achieve Monster Bash, but it's do-able. It feels on par with destroying the ring in LOTR, for me. I've done both a few times, but not often.
The larger DMD is awesome. The animations are fun and greatly improved, but still capture that DMD feel with a vastly more sophisticated display. The quality of the materials is very good, and the game is just well-made. The theme, the old-timey Universal monsters all being collected to form a band, is really fun. The ramps (3 of them!) are really fun to shoot. This game is just very well-designed and feels right. The humor is spot-on, the music and sounds are great and the lighting is (intentionally?) dim, but colorful. Only the trough is poorly lit. A trough LED strip is a great idea on this pin. Only tiny flaw is it can feel a bit repetitive and limited, once you've collected all the monsters. Still, a fantastic game and deserving of a top 10 spot.
The larger DMD is awesome. The animations are fun and greatly improved, but still capture that DMD feel with a vastly more sophisticated display. The quality of the materials is very good, and the game is just well-made. The theme, the old-timey Universal monsters all being collected to form a band, is really fun. The ramps (3 of them!) are really fun to shoot. This game is just very well-designed and feels right. The humor is spot-on, the music and sounds are great and the lighting is (intentionally?) dim, but colorful. Only the trough is poorly lit. A trough LED strip is a great idea on this pin. Only tiny flaw is it can feel a bit repetitive and limited, once you've collected all the monsters. Still, a fantastic game and deserving of a top 10 spot.
7.716/10
5 years ago
The Avengers (LE) Stern, 2012
Finally spent some time on this table after reading about various issues with playfield design, reliability, etc. I found a Hulk LE and have now played it enough for an initial review. I will update this later after getting further into the game.
This game does deserve some of the critisism for glitches and clunky shots, but to a degree, those things can be improved. The question of whether that should be the owner’s responsibility is another matter. Stern, I believe, does offer a kit to address some of the post-production issues. I had some similar issues with GB, and we love that game now. The main problem is the Hulk Toy was probably not ready for production and deserved more testing and adjustment. The resting height of his arms is an issue. He does trap the ball fairly often, unless you make adjustments, many of which are described on Pinside. When he works, he is a very cool toy.
Once the game is adjusted, airballs are addressed and the game is working well, this is a fun game with some interesting, unorthodox shot designs. For me, the Tesseract is the best feature. The simple design works great and the lightshow produced by hitting it is dazzling and satisfying. This is especially true if you replace the stock Tesseract cube. The art package on the Hulk LE cabinet and backglass is awesome and really captures the Hulk theme. The playfield is just ok. Red, white and blue colors, mostly, and photoshopped art. Not bad, not great. The DMD animations are pretty good (the game does have a color DMD option which looks good), and the call outs and music were better than X-Men, I felt, a game often used for comparison.
The rules, so far, are decent but not especially deep or creative. Collect Avengers, play 2 multiball modes, have the collected Avengers battle each other. I haven’t advanced further yet.
Overall, the game plays fast and is challenging. Yes, some shots feel a bit awkward, but others feel great. I didn’t find the Black Widow ramp to be unfair, just tight. It’s definitely make-able on my machine. This is a pin, like GB, that I like because I like difficult shots and layouts that show innovation and originality. This game plays differently than most. It doesn’t have a standard fan layout. It’s unusual, it’s sometimes frustrating, but it is fun and does offer much more good than bad.
This game does deserve some of the critisism for glitches and clunky shots, but to a degree, those things can be improved. The question of whether that should be the owner’s responsibility is another matter. Stern, I believe, does offer a kit to address some of the post-production issues. I had some similar issues with GB, and we love that game now. The main problem is the Hulk Toy was probably not ready for production and deserved more testing and adjustment. The resting height of his arms is an issue. He does trap the ball fairly often, unless you make adjustments, many of which are described on Pinside. When he works, he is a very cool toy.
Once the game is adjusted, airballs are addressed and the game is working well, this is a fun game with some interesting, unorthodox shot designs. For me, the Tesseract is the best feature. The simple design works great and the lightshow produced by hitting it is dazzling and satisfying. This is especially true if you replace the stock Tesseract cube. The art package on the Hulk LE cabinet and backglass is awesome and really captures the Hulk theme. The playfield is just ok. Red, white and blue colors, mostly, and photoshopped art. Not bad, not great. The DMD animations are pretty good (the game does have a color DMD option which looks good), and the call outs and music were better than X-Men, I felt, a game often used for comparison.
The rules, so far, are decent but not especially deep or creative. Collect Avengers, play 2 multiball modes, have the collected Avengers battle each other. I haven’t advanced further yet.
Overall, the game plays fast and is challenging. Yes, some shots feel a bit awkward, but others feel great. I didn’t find the Black Widow ramp to be unfair, just tight. It’s definitely make-able on my machine. This is a pin, like GB, that I like because I like difficult shots and layouts that show innovation and originality. This game plays differently than most. It doesn’t have a standard fan layout. It’s unusual, it’s sometimes frustrating, but it is fun and does offer much more good than bad.
7.480/10
5 years ago
Jurassic Park Data East, 1993
The first Data East pin I ever owned. This is a good game. Considering the era, early 90's, and Data East not being the powerhouse that Bally and Williams were at that time, this is a very nice machine. The playfield artwork is my only real complaint. The theme is excellent, and I have hoped for years that someone would make a new JP pin. I still do. Until then, this is a very playable machine, with one of the best gimmicks/toys ever - the ball-eating T-Rex. He always ate the balls perfectly on my machine, and it's always fun to see. This would be a very expensive feature on a modern Stern machine, I would think. The rules are fairly simple - 10 or so modes with various shots and goals - Feed the T-Rex, Electric Fence, Bone Busting, etc. It has a 2-ball multiball and a main 3-ball multiball. The game also features a special smart missile button on the ball-launcher gun which you can use anytime during your game, but only once. It's often saved until your 3rd ball, then employed to start 3-ball MB. The cabinet itself is just black with the JP logo. Simple, but attractive. The original translite features the big T-Rex, but also a bunch of photoshopped people and smaller dinosaurs beneath him. It's not great. There are fantastic alternate translites for $100 or so.
This pin is REALLY fun to mod. The powered gate that opens is just awesome, although it only opens during one mode (Bone Busting) and the Wizard Mode. So it's not heavily employed. It has a captive ball you can replace with a white ceramic "egg" ball. Add a powered external sub speaker and the sound booms. The music is very familiar, but not exceptionally high in sound quality. Still very immersive when you crank it up! The playfield art is laughably sloppy. Literally looks like an 8th grade art student drew it. I've seen bad (Indiana Jones Pinball Adventure, Tales from the Crypt, etc.) but this one takes the cake. But that's the only real negative. The game is fun to shoot, with lots to do. 3 scoops, 2 orbits/loops, 3 flippers, a cool ramp with diverter, a very dangerous kickback shot right up the middle (the raptor shot), and more. And, of course, T-Rex looming over everything, waiting to swallow your ball!
I enjoy this game very much. It has its pros and cons, but if Stern, or Chicago Gaming, announced a remake of this pin, exactly the way it is now, I would be excited to play it and probably own it.
This pin is REALLY fun to mod. The powered gate that opens is just awesome, although it only opens during one mode (Bone Busting) and the Wizard Mode. So it's not heavily employed. It has a captive ball you can replace with a white ceramic "egg" ball. Add a powered external sub speaker and the sound booms. The music is very familiar, but not exceptionally high in sound quality. Still very immersive when you crank it up! The playfield art is laughably sloppy. Literally looks like an 8th grade art student drew it. I've seen bad (Indiana Jones Pinball Adventure, Tales from the Crypt, etc.) but this one takes the cake. But that's the only real negative. The game is fun to shoot, with lots to do. 3 scoops, 2 orbits/loops, 3 flippers, a cool ramp with diverter, a very dangerous kickback shot right up the middle (the raptor shot), and more. And, of course, T-Rex looming over everything, waiting to swallow your ball!
I enjoy this game very much. It has its pros and cons, but if Stern, or Chicago Gaming, announced a remake of this pin, exactly the way it is now, I would be excited to play it and probably own it.
7.847/10
5 years ago
The Beatles (Gold Edition) Stern, 2018
Not much to add in terms of describing what this game is. A good-looking throwback pin based on Seawitch with a couple modern twists and features. I like the art package overall, and the spinning record in the center of the playfield is perfect for this game. I was surprised to find the factory-installed blade/decals peeling away from the insides of the cabinet. I hope that’s not common for this pin, given the high prices. I’ve experienced this issue on one of my Stern pins, but these were installed by Stern and cost a lot of money. The gameplay is just ok. It’s definitely reminiscent of the EM games of the 60’s. The music sounds good, but I agree that the songs are a bit limited (5 main song modes with 4 extra songs to unlock), but I’m not sure how much of each song you get to hear, only a minute or so, it seems.
This is a nice, very playable showpiece, that may make Beatles collectors happy. Pinball people may be less thrilled, especially in the home environment. The price and lastability are both questionable. It’s a decent try, something different. But is it worth the money? Time will tell.
This is a nice, very playable showpiece, that may make Beatles collectors happy. Pinball people may be less thrilled, especially in the home environment. The price and lastability are both questionable. It’s a decent try, something different. But is it worth the money? Time will tell.
9.120/10
5 years ago
Alien (Heighway Pinball) Heighway Pinball, 2017
I’ve had the pleasure of playing two of these difficult to find pins. I feel the demise of Heighway as it relates to the premature termination of this pin is a terrible shame. Most of us can not afford one of these now, and unless someone buys the rights and produces more, the price probably won’t come down. I had a chance to buy one about 6 months ago for $8500, and I was very close to pulling the trigger. Only the lack of customer support and possible limitation on parts made me choose Dialed In instead. I wish I could own one of these. The theme is perfect, the game oozes Alien in every way. Sound, game play, toys, lighting, art package. Stellar job. Really fun pin to shoot too, with shots EVERYWHERE, you won’t get bored. If this pin was still being made, or if JJP or another healthy company made it, I wouldn’t hesitate. The rules are very well done, and you can choose Alien or the sequel Aliens to try to complete the modes. Excellent use of video and the lcd screens are cutting edge. This is such a great machine with so much more potential.
8.560/10
5 years ago
Bram Stoker's Dracula Williams, 1993
Fun pin feels to me like a very unique transition pin between the simpler pins of the 80's and the more complex pins which came later. Good, if rather simple, rules and a very hard pin to master. Good flow, smooth ramp shots. A bit on the simple side in terms of shot variety, but it's a good design. Captures theme well. I agree this is a nice pin to add to almost any collection. One of best horror pins.
Update- finally own one. Love this game. Great rules with fantastic, stackable multiballs and very rewarding jackpots. This pin rewards shots made and punishes missed shots like few others. Just an excellent early DMD game that should probably be rated higher. Only the artwork is average. Music, theme, video mode, you name it. This one is a keeper.
Update- finally own one. Love this game. Great rules with fantastic, stackable multiballs and very rewarding jackpots. This pin rewards shots made and punishes missed shots like few others. Just an excellent early DMD game that should probably be rated higher. Only the artwork is average. Music, theme, video mode, you name it. This one is a keeper.
7.640/10
5 years ago
Deadpool (Pro) Stern, 2018
I haven't played the premium yet, so I can't personally weigh the difference between the two. But I've played a fair amount on the pro on two different machines and they both felt a bit clunky and awkward to me. Some shots are decent, but 2 or 3 are just meh. I don't care for that tiny inner loop left of the battle scoop. It seems to reject or deflect balls rather than accept them properly. Lots of airballs on the second machine I played. The sword ramp is a clever variation on LOTR, and the mini Deadpool ball lock is fun, if a bit too close. Overall, I felt it was average to slightly below for someone not familiar with the theme. For fans, I'm sure this has more appeal. There is just so much less to this game than games made a few years ago. Compare what's going on with this playfield with that of TAF, or TOM, or TOTAN or LOTR or TSPP, to name a few. Bally/Williams and earlier Stern were more complex. Maybe less is more is the idea? Or, cheaper and cheaper is the idea, and focus on making it a video game with lots of code and LCD material. Same with Star Wars and BM66. Dressed-down playfields, but more focus on video content and rules. I like the old DMD games with more engineering and mechs. Artwork is eye-popping, as it was with BM66. In short, the gap between JJP and Stern would have been small years ago, but is quite noticeable today. Although price does reflect that.
*Update- I’ve played this game more since it was released in 2018, and just recently added a pro to my collection. I had to give it a serious look because it seems literally everyone likes DP. I did raise my rating a bit, mostly because the code is deep and pretty fun, with lots to explore, and the katana ramp is pretty awesome. I still feel DP isn’t a great shooter, and because I’m not a fan of the DP theme, this one won’t be a fav of mine. But I can see why people like it.
*Update- I’ve played this game more since it was released in 2018, and just recently added a pro to my collection. I had to give it a serious look because it seems literally everyone likes DP. I did raise my rating a bit, mostly because the code is deep and pretty fun, with lots to explore, and the katana ramp is pretty awesome. I still feel DP isn’t a great shooter, and because I’m not a fan of the DP theme, this one won’t be a fav of mine. But I can see why people like it.
8.148/10
5 years ago
Batman (The Dark Knight) Stern, 2008
Underrated pin is easy for beginners and guests but deep enough for more experienced players. Shots are fairly easy to make, which may not present enough of a challenge for some. Strong theme, well integrated. The upgraded sound package is a must. Once you have that, the cabinet, dark color scheme, toys, and creative shots make this a fun pin to play or own. Has the original crane toy redone in BM66. Lots of multiball modes (at least 4) keep the action busy. With LEDs, game looks great. Just a very fun, easy to understand pin with cool, dark theme and some cool gimmicks. Music is pretty good and the cabinet looks fantastic. Playfield artwork is so so. Overall, a very good pin somewhat better than its rank because early sound package was pretty bad. Fun mods too. Not to be confused with the "home" version Stern tried to sell at Costco for a whopping $700 discount. They removed 3 of the main toys (the upper playfield, the Batmobile teeter-totter and the rotating biscuit barrel). They only made 48 of those, but I saw one at the Chicago Expo this year. It's much simpler and less fun. That was Stern's solution to the pinball lull of that era, strip down a game and offer it for a few hundred less? Genius.
8.976/10
5 years ago
TRON: Legacy (Pro) Stern, 2011
Incredible machine. Other than the so-so clip art on the playfield and large inserts, the overall art package is stellar. The cabinet is gorgeous, and the 3D backglass is attractive and fits the theme well. This machine just looks stunning, and stands out in any collection or arcade. There is no mistaking Tron for another pin. The lighting is great, and the neon ramps are perfect for this theme. When this pin is set up right, with the right mods, it's the most impressive looking pin out there. As far as the design, this is a Borg masterpiece. Elegant, backward setup with a third flipper on the left, with an inner loop and 2 smooth ramps. It's fast, hard, yet simple and a blast to shoot. I didn't like this pin at first. It was too hard with very short ball times. After learning the game, I've come to respect it much more. The Gem and Quorra shots are both so satisfying to shoot. The spinning disc creates chaos. This is a keeper.
*Update. After owning this pin for more than a year, I can say I wouldn't change my initial review at all. This pin looks amazing, plus the sound package is excellent. Immersive music from the movie and plenty of movie callouts. This pin plays fast, hard and can be punishing. The code is fairly straightforward and not super deep, but it's not easy to complete either. This will be one of the last to ever leave my collection.
*Update. After owning this pin for more than a year, I can say I wouldn't change my initial review at all. This pin looks amazing, plus the sound package is excellent. Immersive music from the movie and plenty of movie callouts. This pin plays fast, hard and can be punishing. The code is fairly straightforward and not super deep, but it's not easy to complete either. This will be one of the last to ever leave my collection.
8.096/10
5 years ago
Aerosmith (Pro) Stern, 2017
Decent game feels like MET-lite to me. It offers tremendous playfield artwork and is a very good looking game overall. I find the animations to be decent, if simple and comical, almost Scooby-Doo-like. The rules are a bit repetitive and uninspired. The two main multiballs are fun though, and the toy box is a cool toy. If you are a fan of Aerosmith music, this a very nice pin to own. If not, this is still a decent game, with some pretty good flow and some fun shots. I really like the lock lane for the trunk, it's in an odd location that isn't a gimme to hit consistently. I do feel the placement of the pop bumpers is strange. Unless you soft plunge the ball, plunged balls or auto-plunged balls enter the pops before your flippers ever touch the ball. Sometimes, the ball exits the pops and goes SDTM. Also, because there is a post between the two pops on the right, the ball cannot exit the pops and travel into the lock lane or elsewhere. It seems like a useless place to put them, except to create a shot-thru-the-pops, which is popular. This is a good pinball machine, with great hand-drawn art. But it's a less impressive cousin to Metallica in rules, layout and shots. Deserves a spot in the top 50, however, and makes a beautiful addition to your music-pin collection along with MET, AC/DC, KISS, GNR and Iron Maiden. If only Dream On had made the song list! Maybe an updated ROM with a Dream On mode to unlock???
7.816/10
5 years ago
Junk Yard Williams, 1996
Great example of how unique Bally/Williams pins often were. White Water, Arabian Nights, Fish Tales, Scared Stiff, Indy Jones, etc. etc. etc. These pins were actually quite diverse and offered ORIGINALITY. Now, look at pins like Star Wars, Game of Thrones, Iron Man, KISS, Guardians of the Galaxy. Many modern Stern pins feel too similar and they take few risks. This pin has no pop bumpers. It has a horseshoe shaped bank of standup targets, with an opening in the center for the junkyard entrance, and a huge crane and wrecking ball dangling. This pin will never be confused with any other. The theme is bonkers. Hippie art with VW bus and a toilet and junk and a time machine and a junkyard dog video mode(s). Plus you collect junk to build some kind of jalopy aircraft that will take you into...space. Just plain weird and unique and FUNKY. It oozes originality. Gameplay is good, not great. Shots are good, not great. It's a pretty good pin for what it is. My fiancé loves this pin. This was the first pin I ever beat to advance in my first pinball tournament. Shoot that toast!
7.202/10
5 years ago
AC/DC (Premium) Stern, 2012
Very hard pin with only about 6 main shots. (Orbits, 2 ramps, bell, TNT). Lots of drop targets for sure, but I like a bit more variety. Too simple, or crowded, and very fast. Lots of unfair drains, I felt. May simply be too hard for my taste. Great music, and above-average art package overall and rules seem decent. But I keep going back to this one over and over, and I can't get into this one. I really want to like AC/DC. I love Metallica, for example. The cannon doesn't seem useful when I use it. Perhaps for the drop targets? This one just doesn't do it for me.
8.368/10
5 years ago
Attack From Mars (Remake - LE) Chicago Gaming Co., 2017
Though I have never been a huge fan of the original, I really enjoy the entire package that is AFMr LE. The topper is the best in pinball, the huge custom color DMD is fantastic looking and still captures that 1990's DMD era while stepping it up. The animations are far better than the original. The sound is big, rumbling and fits the theme perfectly. This is a good playfield design and a good pinball game, but overall it is better than just the gameplay. I would give the gameplay a 7 and the overall pin a 9. It's the entire package that makes this remake a winner. Would love to own an LE someday.
9.340/10
5 years ago
Scared Stiff Bally, 1996
I ignored this pin for years before I started collecting them. I only saw the theme and the little rubber pencil eraser toys and plastic bones and silly spider backglass. Once again, I was wrong to judge and dismiss this machine. It's deep enough, with 6 main modes and then the spider backglass web to complete, and moving up the Stiff-O-Meter! It's kinda trashy, kinda sexy, pretty spooky and odd, and a huge amount of fun. The shots are straightforward and pretty easy, but satisfying, and they allow you to accomplish much even if you are new to the game. The crate is really fun to shoot. When the lights are bright and the color DMD is installed, this game is great looking. Now I understand why these are pretty hard to find and not cheap to own. Can't wait for number 3!
Update-I own this one finally! Just an exceptionally fun pin with 1990's-shallow rules, but in a larger collection, it works. Most pins, especially recent ones, are very difficult to complete. I've only completed 3 or 4 pins ever. SS is a game you can reasonably attempt to complete in a fairly short period of time. I've finished the 6 modes several times, and finished the Stiff-0-Meter once for Monster MB. You can also finish the 16 spider awards for Spider MB, which I haven't seen. The shots just feel right. The 2 ramps are smooth and fun, and the trunk is a blast to hit and works great. The spider is creative and fun, and the spider VUK up through the bottom of the ramp is clever, but must be carefully adjusted (balls can hit the bottom if the VUK is not set just right). Progress on all the modes can be made at the same time, and you can complete all 6 modes in just a few minutes. Hitting all 10 levels on the meter isn't easy (on one ball). There is also a secret passage if you are able to shoot the ball softly up the left orbit. I've only seen this hit once! This game isn't super deep, but it shoots great, has funny callouts and good music. The cabinet looks cool with the coffin design. A keeper for us for sure!
Update-I own this one finally! Just an exceptionally fun pin with 1990's-shallow rules, but in a larger collection, it works. Most pins, especially recent ones, are very difficult to complete. I've only completed 3 or 4 pins ever. SS is a game you can reasonably attempt to complete in a fairly short period of time. I've finished the 6 modes several times, and finished the Stiff-0-Meter once for Monster MB. You can also finish the 16 spider awards for Spider MB, which I haven't seen. The shots just feel right. The 2 ramps are smooth and fun, and the trunk is a blast to hit and works great. The spider is creative and fun, and the spider VUK up through the bottom of the ramp is clever, but must be carefully adjusted (balls can hit the bottom if the VUK is not set just right). Progress on all the modes can be made at the same time, and you can complete all 6 modes in just a few minutes. Hitting all 10 levels on the meter isn't easy (on one ball). There is also a secret passage if you are able to shoot the ball softly up the left orbit. I've only seen this hit once! This game isn't super deep, but it shoots great, has funny callouts and good music. The cabinet looks cool with the coffin design. A keeper for us for sure!
7.552/10
5 years ago
Big Buck Hunter Pro Stern, 2010
I recently added this game to my collection because I got a great deal on a HUO with low plays. This game is fairly simple, funny and looks good. I personally like the art and use of primary colors. The callouts are cute and silly. The game is lighthearted, especially for a hunting theme. I would say I bought it despite the theme, not being a hunter myself. I know people have complaints about the rules. Perhaps I haven't gotten good enough or gone far enough to find the problems. I think the game is simple to play, easy to understand and yet, not easy to score well. This is a low-scoring game that requires careful ball control to do well. Ball times can be quite short. Not a great pinball machine by any measure. But the fan layout is decent, the deer scooting across the playfield is a nice gimmick, and it is challenging. The ramp is easy to hit, but the ram and bird shots are harder, and the spinner shot is very hard to hit. Most games I never hit the spinner once, which is unfortunate - I like spinners. It does suffer from some odd shots and shallow shot variety. But it looks nice up north in deer country! Would look and play great next to a Fish Tales. Holy suffering cats!!! A better game than I thought based on reviews. But then again, I like IJ4, CSI and Shrek. To each their own. Those games are a bit better than BBH, but this isn't a bad machine, and for a hunter/outdoorsman, this would be an ideal theme. I may keep it for a few months and then find someone who would appreciate the theme!
8.112/10
5 years ago
Indiana Jones Stern, 2008
This is a tough game for me to rate fairly. But I’ll try. First off, I LOVE Indiana Jones movies. This is a top 3 theme for me, so that alone makes this a keeper for me. But I do admit that the 1993 Williams version is deeper, more well designed and better in many key ways. However, Indy4 has better sound, music, video clips and I prefer the art package to the Williams comic book cartoon animation on the playfield. But this version is simple, easy to play and understand, and has some decent shots (the ramp and orbits feel good), and the rising captive ball is clever. Finally, the 8-ball multiball is bonkers. I’m not saying it’s great, but it’s unusual. I do believe if the 1993 version didn’t exist, this game would be considered a better game. Not great, but easy to play, with good music, sound and callouts, with some pretty good DMD scenes. It’s Indy! It’s still fun for what it is. Plus, you can pick up a really nice one, if you can find it, for about half the price of the first version. This one is staying in my lineup. Plus, non-pinheads seem drawn to it. I’ve owned both versions of Indy Jones, and while I respect the Williams version a lot, it wasn’t a keeper for me. I’ve owned the Stern version twice, and I love having one around, even if I seldom play it.
8.132/10
5 years ago
Monopoly Stern, 2001
This underrated game depends a lot on your feelings about Pat Lawlor designs. Lots of ramps and odd angle shots. Pretty good theme integration, actually. I enjoy playing this one on location, but would it get boring owning it? I love the board game, and I love most Pat Lawlor designs. So this game just speaks to me. The 4 ramps are fun, even the short little railroad ramp in front. Decent little game. Perpetually spinning short flipper is silly tho. In a larger collection, this is a nice addition.
8.663/10
5 years ago
Fish Tales Williams, 1992
Fun fishing theme. Great floppy fish topper! Good artwork on the backglass and playfield. I like the boat design on the playfield. The fishing rod ball lock is cool. Just a really funny, quirky Williams game that, to me, epitomizes that early 1990's era. Games weren't all licensed then, and being unique and taking chances seemed more common. Only negatives are the lighting is often dark on location (nice LED upgrades tho for this pin) and the playfield design means somewhat limited places to shoot for, it feels harder than it should be? Maybe I'm just an average player and it's me. I enjoy the theme and the feel of those criss-cross boat ramps! Fun shooter rod gimmick too.
Edit: I’ve now owned this game twice since 2019. I’m a huge fan. It’s one of the two most difficult pins I own, and ball times can be brutally short. The boat ramp is just an awesome, original idea that works really well. It’s fun and a challenge to string several ramps together for Monster Fish, and the multiball lock in the fishing rod is perfect for this theme. This isn’t a super deep game, and it’s also quite narrow, with only a few things to do and one main multiball. But few pins capture a theme this well, with the artwork, toys, music and funny callouts all coming together. These 90s pins are my style, so I’m sure those who prefer the deeper, more sophisticated modern pins will find this one lacking. For me, this is one of the very best examples of how to express a theme in pinball form. This is a “keeper” for me.
Edit: I’ve now owned this game twice since 2019. I’m a huge fan. It’s one of the two most difficult pins I own, and ball times can be brutally short. The boat ramp is just an awesome, original idea that works really well. It’s fun and a challenge to string several ramps together for Monster Fish, and the multiball lock in the fishing rod is perfect for this theme. This isn’t a super deep game, and it’s also quite narrow, with only a few things to do and one main multiball. But few pins capture a theme this well, with the artwork, toys, music and funny callouts all coming together. These 90s pins are my style, so I’m sure those who prefer the deeper, more sophisticated modern pins will find this one lacking. For me, this is one of the very best examples of how to express a theme in pinball form. This is a “keeper” for me.
8.448/10
5 years ago
Indiana Jones: The Pinball Adventure Williams, 1993
Fun adventure game by Williams is deeper and more immersive than the Stern version, IMHO, but they are also different pins with different feel and design. Both are good at capturing Indy theme and both have good music, sounds and callouts. I like the Stern artwork better, even if photoshopped, because the hand-drawn art on this pin looks odd to me. Overall, the art package isn't bad tho. Nice widebody has a very unique feel all its own. Should have maybe one or two more shots for all the extra room a widebody offers. Still, it offers lots of modes and goals, fun Path of Adventure and very good dot animations. If you love Indy, this is a very fun game that, while it doesn't blow me away, usually gets my quarters when I see it in the wild. I would like to own one, but they are getting very expensive for a quality example. People love this theme!
Update - I now own my second Indy, and this one is a keeper for a long time. 3 of the best video modes, each well made and challenging. Plenty of modes, 12 main modes, with other goals and things to do. Wizard mode is fun, and reminds me of The Shadow (shoot every shot/switch in a short period of time). Huge bonus if you complete the wizard mode. Great callouts and iconic music. It’s in the discussion for top 90s WPC pin, along with TOTAN, MM, AFM, MB, WH2O, TZ and FT.
Update - I now own my second Indy, and this one is a keeper for a long time. 3 of the best video modes, each well made and challenging. Plenty of modes, 12 main modes, with other goals and things to do. Wizard mode is fun, and reminds me of The Shadow (shoot every shot/switch in a short period of time). Huge bonus if you complete the wizard mode. Great callouts and iconic music. It’s in the discussion for top 90s WPC pin, along with TOTAN, MM, AFM, MB, WH2O, TZ and FT.
8.432/10
5 years ago
Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast (Pro) Stern, 2018
I'm not a fan of Iron Maiden, I simply don't know the music and was never a heavy metal music fan. However, having spent a fair amount of time on this pin, I must say this is a very solid offering from Stern and one of their most inspired and innovative games in recent years. I agree that Stern games lately all "feel" like Stern games. There is something lighter about the machine and the materials. I'm not saying cheap, necessarily, but economical maybe? This game has great music (and I'm not a fan), fantastic art, and some seriously fun, fast and flowing ramps but especially the orbits. 2 separate orbits, an outer one and a smaller inner one, each accessible with the two upper flippers. This kind of innovation in design seems less common lately and reminds me of the kind of bold design efforts of the late 1980's and 1990's. I love pins with crazy ramps like Radical! and Demolition Man. I don't see those kinds of risks taken or quality materials devoted to making a big splash these days. It's usually 2 metal or plastic ramps, an orbit, a scoop, a magnet, an upkicker, 3-4 pops, stand-ups and drop targets and maybe a bash target. Move them around, re-theme, rinse, repeat. I know that's the reality we live in, there are only so many things you can do to a playfield, but that's the challenge. Give us something different we haven't seen. Iron Maiden isn't necessarily groundbreaking. It's kind of like Metallica with a very cool use of 2 added flippers and some unusual orbits and stand-up target placements. But the hand-drawn art is great, the sound rocks and the animation is very well done. I was skeptical because this game was SO highly regarded by everyone so quickly. I must say most of the praise is deserved. For the price, a PRO, NIB is a pretty good value. If you love Iron Maiden? Don't hesitate. This one deserves to be a hit.
8.680/10
5 years ago
The Hobbit Jersey Jack, 2016
Fantastic artwork and theme integration. Beautiful playfield art package. Good video clips and animations. This is one of the best looking games ever made. Right up there with WOZ. The problem is the game design and layout. The game is far too wide open for my taste and fails to make full use of the widebody design. With all the extra space, it feels like this could have been a standard size pin and maybe it would have benefited. Feels very floaty and slow on location unless the game is set up steep and the flippers cranked up. Also, the rules are not obvious and the 30+ objectives and modes are confusing. I do enjoy the 2 crossing ramps, great design. I hope they utilize that again in another pin. It's weird, JJP nailed theme and art and sound in this game, but gameplay is weak. Then, their next game, DI, is the exact opposite. They nailed gameplay and shot design. They whiffed on theme and music/callouts (in my opinion). Artwork in DI isn't bad, but it's all over the place because theme is odd. I agree this would be a beautiful addition to a collection, and would look fantastic next to my LOTR. However, not for that price. I'm not a huge fan of the trolls in MM, and this game has 4 trolls that pop up all over the playfield. No thank you!
UPDATE: After hearing great things about the massive code update, I decided to trade for a NIB Hobbit Smaug SE. What a gorgeous pin. I was wrong about the playfield being too wide open. That's the point with this design, it's a sharp shooter's pin with long shots that must be made at the right time, and sometimes many times, throughout the game. The drop targets perched in front of standup targets is cool, and you must be precise to collect all the characters. After unboxing this one, I updated the code and played for 43 minutes on my first game, on moderately easy settings with extra balls. If you adjust the back legs to increase the speed, and adjust the flipper power, this pin is fantastic. SO deep, with tons of modes that take real commitment just to start them all, and completing them all seems impossible. Incredible music, fantastic use of the 27" LCD (much better than WOZ, which is limited in comparison), and the lightshow is among the best I've seen. It's a VERY long journey, which may not be for everyone, but this pin is much better than I first thought, and adds a lot to any collection. It's also very fun for novices, who can play this game without much skill and still get a multiball or two. Great game!
UPDATE: After hearing great things about the massive code update, I decided to trade for a NIB Hobbit Smaug SE. What a gorgeous pin. I was wrong about the playfield being too wide open. That's the point with this design, it's a sharp shooter's pin with long shots that must be made at the right time, and sometimes many times, throughout the game. The drop targets perched in front of standup targets is cool, and you must be precise to collect all the characters. After unboxing this one, I updated the code and played for 43 minutes on my first game, on moderately easy settings with extra balls. If you adjust the back legs to increase the speed, and adjust the flipper power, this pin is fantastic. SO deep, with tons of modes that take real commitment just to start them all, and completing them all seems impossible. Incredible music, fantastic use of the 27" LCD (much better than WOZ, which is limited in comparison), and the lightshow is among the best I've seen. It's a VERY long journey, which may not be for everyone, but this pin is much better than I first thought, and adds a lot to any collection. It's also very fun for novices, who can play this game without much skill and still get a multiball or two. Great game!
8.480/10
5 years ago
Ripley's Believe It or Not! Stern, 2004
This is just a great Pat Lawlor game with basically all the classic Lawlor shots and features. Some people describe this pin as TZ lite, and that's a fair description. However, I personally enjoyed this pin more than TZ. I know that's heresy to some people, but they really are very similar in many ways, with TZ getting the nod for innovation, theme and rules, while the layout and more modern feel to Ripley's is better. I feel it shoots better. The humor and weirdness of Ripley's is fun. This game is simply packed with ramps, magnets, scoops, trapdoor shots, and an upper playfield. Definitely feels like a Pat Lawlor game. I personally find this one to be one of his best ever games, and for the current price for a clean HUO? Incredible, underrated bargain. I wish I had discovered it sooner. I would own one by now.*
*Update. I finally found an excellent HUO, clean and nearly mint RBION. This game has ALOT to offer in terms of gameplay. Smooth shots, ramps and great flow. Excellent design and layout. Some shots are very similar to Dialed In. And like Dialed In, this game suffers from a goofy theme, music and callouts. I love playing both games despite their themes. If only the theme was a bit more realized or appealing. Still a fantastic, underrated shooter. Pretty deep game too. It’s odd, but that’s one reason I traded for it. Overall, this is one of my favorite games in my collection.
*Update. I finally found an excellent HUO, clean and nearly mint RBION. This game has ALOT to offer in terms of gameplay. Smooth shots, ramps and great flow. Excellent design and layout. Some shots are very similar to Dialed In. And like Dialed In, this game suffers from a goofy theme, music and callouts. I love playing both games despite their themes. If only the theme was a bit more realized or appealing. Still a fantastic, underrated shooter. Pretty deep game too. It’s odd, but that’s one reason I traded for it. Overall, this is one of my favorite games in my collection.
8.408/10
6 years ago
Shrek Stern, 2008
I recently added a very nice, HUO Shrek after admiring the playfield colors and art for a long time. I really like the art package on Shrek. The game design is unusual, not a surprise given it’s a Pat Lawlor design. I enjoy games with a wide array of shots, and Shrek has many, many shots and some from tricky angles. Donkey Pinball is really cute and creative, to me. People complain the upper pf is repetitive and boring. I find many upper playfields gimmicky and get old or waste space. This one is essential to collecting the characters and starting the main mb. I can see how this game’s appeal is even more personal and subjective than pinball already is. You need to like or at least tolerate Shrek and the Mike Myers and Eddie Murphy-sounding callouts. I like them, most are directly from the movie. This one is very kid-friendly too, and we need that for lots of reasons. But this game isn’t just for kids. Lawlor designed a tricky game where skill is needed to excel, and I enjoy the modes and rules. Pretty varied, if not super “deep.” Plus, there are only 600 of these pins. That’s a small run. I find it interesting too that Family Guy (which I don’t care for) is ranked pretty high, like #57, but Shrek is outside the top 100. The game is physically the same, with different art, sound and rule packages. Because I enjoy Shrek more, I would flip those rankings. Either way, this is an underrated game which is good-looking, unusual and fun to play. Plus, kids run to it first! They can’t all be for us “grown-ups.” UPDATE: after playing for several more days, I must admit I really love this game and enjoy playing it. Easy to play, hard to excel at and beat, and offers something different than most other pins. It's unique and it's fun. Give this one a real try if you can find one!
9.456/10
6 years ago
Lord of the Rings Stern, 2003
After years of ignoring this game (I’m not familiar with the movies, but I love the 1977 animated Hobbit), I decided to read up on this game and started to play it in local bars. I was immediately struck by how inspired it feels. The ramps are unique. The playfield is complicated but tasteful. Artwork, music and callouts are very good. The code is excellent and deep. Plenty to do. You don’t have to be a fan of the movies. This game stands on its own. Maybe the best long-ball adventure game I’ve played. I soon wanted to own one. Now I see why this game is so highly regarded. It’s not really that hard, but it depends a lot on your settings. Just a really unique game designed and built by a lot of talented people. Probably Stern’s crown jewel.
*UPDATE - I traded my first LOTR and missed it too much. So I found an even nicer one and bought it again. Beautiful, balanced adventure game with fantastic sound and perfect rules. Great shot variety. This one is staying.
*UPDATE - I traded my first LOTR and missed it too much. So I found an even nicer one and bought it again. Beautiful, balanced adventure game with fantastic sound and perfect rules. Great shot variety. This one is staying.
9.460/10
6 years ago
Metallica (Pro) Stern, 2013
I'm not a huge Metallica music fan, but I do like some of their songs. I ignored this pin for years, before finally trying it out in a bar. I was hooked immediately by the wide open, fan layout with so many shots and a butter-smooth orbit. I had to own one. We really enjoyed this pin and I only agreed to part with it because a Tron became available and I wanted the challenge of Tron. I miss it already and it's still in my basement waiting for the Tron swap! I may own this pin again someday. I would recommend this pin to anyone and it certainly deserves it's top 10 ranking. So much to do, yet, so easy to understand and follow. Just a fun, fun game. Great use of space. There are like 10 shots across the entire fan layout, yet, it's not crowded. The gold standard for rock pins, IMHO.
7.756/10
6 years ago
Creature from the Black Lagoon Bally, 1992
I reviewed this game years ago before I really took the time to play it and understand the goals. It’s a very tricky pin to play for long, with short ball times and harder shots than they first appear. The main goal and rules are simple, spell FILM, start multiball, find the creature, spell CREATURE at the whirlpool and rescue the girl. Some fun modes and jackpots are important if you want a high score. Plus, you can play it for points, or to simply rescue the lady from the cftbl. The back glass art is cool, and the playfield colors are unusual and distinctive. This is one of the last 90’s pins I tried to find to own. I’m really happy I added one, and it’s probably a keeper along with BSD and FT, pins with shorter times, and a great challenge. I underestimated this one.
8.240/10
6 years ago
Guardians of the Galaxy (Pro) Stern, 2017
Great looking game with better build quality than BM66. Both games are very good looking, but each suffer from gameplay problems. GOTG lacks originality and variety in the design and shots. Plus, it's extremely difficult. Almost every shot quickly sends the ball back at you. You play defense all game. The ramps are smooth and fast, but they are simple and send the ball back at you fast. The orbits, the Orb shot, Groot, and especially Rocket, all send the ball back at you, or SDTM. There is no center post either, and this game needs one. Maybe I'm just an average player and this game is designed for great players. But I enjoy most pins, and this one is just too difficult, and unoriginal. I want to like it. I like the theme. I love the art. I think the LCD tv screen is perfect. And if they add a few more songs, and complete the code, the game could be fantastic. But the playfield design is what it is. This game will be limited by a snoozer of a layout, where you spend far too much time bashing Groot over and over until he spits the balls SDTM.
Edit- I initially reviewed this game very early and before the code was finished. Since then, songs were added and the rules make a lot more sense. This is a better game than I thought. I haven’t had much interest in owning one, but I enjoy feeding Groot a few balls from time to time. Still isn’t the most creative layout, but it’s fun for what it is. A little faster and more punishing than MET, with a similar layout. With custom music ROMs that expand the catalogue, it’s a fun and cool pop music pin.
Edit- I initially reviewed this game very early and before the code was finished. Since then, songs were added and the rules make a lot more sense. This is a better game than I thought. I haven’t had much interest in owning one, but I enjoy feeding Groot a few balls from time to time. Still isn’t the most creative layout, but it’s fun for what it is. A little faster and more punishing than MET, with a similar layout. With custom music ROMs that expand the catalogue, it’s a fun and cool pop music pin.
8.320/10
6 years ago
Houdini American Pinball, 2017
Amazing art package, especially for a first pin. This is one of the BEST art packages I've ever seen in pinball. Beautiful hand drawn/painted art. Classy, attractive cabinet. The backbox shape is a bit odd, but it works for this unique game. I'm not sure yet about the tv screen blended into the backglass art. It's ok, but where this game really shines is on the playfield. I also like the layout of the shots and the lighting. The build quality and toys and materials feel solid. This is a carefully made game. The shots are tight. Some are very tight. That's not a negative, necessarily, it's just an observation. You must be precise with your shooting on this pin. The flippers do feel different from other machines. This game feels like it would benefit from being in a home environment, where you can really dial in the settings, and study the shots and the unique feel of the game. This would not be an easy pin for casual players. I experienced a few airballs and clunky shots, but the good far outweighs the bad here. GB felt clunky to me at first, and I stuck with it and now it plays great. Some issues can be improved. With a few small adjustments, this could be a classic game.
*Update - having played this game more over the past few weeks in home environments, I must elevate my rating. This is a very difficult pin for the casual player or someone walking up to it on location. There is no debating the shots, some are frustratingly tight. But in a home, set up properly, you can become familiar with the angles and get it dialed in. Then, you start to appreciate what potential this pin has. Just beautiful to look at too! Would love to own one!
*Update - having played this game more over the past few weeks in home environments, I must elevate my rating. This is a very difficult pin for the casual player or someone walking up to it on location. There is no debating the shots, some are frustratingly tight. But in a home, set up properly, you can become familiar with the angles and get it dialed in. Then, you start to appreciate what potential this pin has. Just beautiful to look at too! Would love to own one!
9.012/10
6 years ago
Star Trek (Premium) Stern, 2013
After years of hearing good things about this game, I finally got a chance to play it. I own Spider-Man, and I had heard this feels like a better, more involved version of Spider-Man, and I agree. Of all the games I played this weekend for the first time (Houdini, GOTG, DI) this was the best. DI is more sophisticated, and both GOTG and Houdini are better looking (to me), but Star Trek was a fantastic shooter and a great game. Incredibly smooth, flowing ramps and shots. Steve Richie knows how to build a great shooting, flowing pin. Spider-Man is good, Star Trek is great. Rules are a bit deeper than Spidey, and I only took points off for the playfield (just ok to me) and some toys (the space rocks/asteroids are silly). But I was really impressed with this game, and I now want to add it to my collection asap.
9.244/10
6 years ago
Dialed In Jersey Jack, 2017
I finally spent some time on this pin and it was exactly as advertised. Solid build quality. Great shots. Smooth. Very unique, original design. The theme is ok, it's better once you play it than it sounds. It's quirky and even silly, using humor and an offbeat attitude in contrast to the natural disaster theme. It's gimmicky, but mostly in a good way. When it comes down to the most important things, for me, it plays great, feels great and is very well designed. It only loses points because of the somewhat odd mix of ideas and concepts, but they definitely don't outweigh the fact that this pin was built with skill and talent and originality. I can see this one lasting a good, long while in a collection. But, I agree with those who wonder - will it age well? It's fun, and has that one-more-game feel.
UPDATE - I've owned this one for a few weeks now, and I agree this is one of the best made and designed games in many years. I am a Pat Lawlor fan, I enjoy his ramps and unusual angles and side shots. This is a very nice effort from Lawlor after a few years away from pinball. JJP was smart to add him to their team, especially after Balcer left to make Houdini. I always felt WOZ was a great design that may have been even better had Lawlor been involved. Dialed In is fun and SUPER smooth, it feels great just to shoot ramps and make shots. Scoring is very hard. You are barely awarded any real points until you complete modes, and collect SIM cards. If you don't complete modes, hit BIG BANG! when lit and collect SIM cards (by hitting the very tricky SIM card scoop located right where you'd expect Lawlor to put it) you won't really score well. But that's the depth of Dialed In. It's perfectly fine and fun for beginners, but it's very, very deep with 11 (I think) disaster modes you must complete (not merely start) and 8 (I think) SIM cards to collect to get to the wizard mode. I'm maybe 50 games into DI, and so far I have yet to collect more than 2 SIM cards in a game! That kind of deep challenge makes people (me at least) keep coming back. Also, the camera, which takes your selfie, is used for more than just that. You have to wave your hand in front of the camera to scratch off tickets and get bonuses! Genius. Sound is good, music is ok, but the speakers produce some low key buzz or feedback that is odd for such a sophisticated machine. I hear others have this issue too. Overall, fantastic pin that gets better and better as you get to know it.
UPDATE - I've owned this one for a few weeks now, and I agree this is one of the best made and designed games in many years. I am a Pat Lawlor fan, I enjoy his ramps and unusual angles and side shots. This is a very nice effort from Lawlor after a few years away from pinball. JJP was smart to add him to their team, especially after Balcer left to make Houdini. I always felt WOZ was a great design that may have been even better had Lawlor been involved. Dialed In is fun and SUPER smooth, it feels great just to shoot ramps and make shots. Scoring is very hard. You are barely awarded any real points until you complete modes, and collect SIM cards. If you don't complete modes, hit BIG BANG! when lit and collect SIM cards (by hitting the very tricky SIM card scoop located right where you'd expect Lawlor to put it) you won't really score well. But that's the depth of Dialed In. It's perfectly fine and fun for beginners, but it's very, very deep with 11 (I think) disaster modes you must complete (not merely start) and 8 (I think) SIM cards to collect to get to the wizard mode. I'm maybe 50 games into DI, and so far I have yet to collect more than 2 SIM cards in a game! That kind of deep challenge makes people (me at least) keep coming back. Also, the camera, which takes your selfie, is used for more than just that. You have to wave your hand in front of the camera to scratch off tickets and get bonuses! Genius. Sound is good, music is ok, but the speakers produce some low key buzz or feedback that is odd for such a sophisticated machine. I hear others have this issue too. Overall, fantastic pin that gets better and better as you get to know it.
7.940/10
6 years ago
Star Trek: The Next Generation Williams, 1993
I didn’t like this game before I became a collector. Now I do. I think I was too unfamiliar with the feel of widebodies. They shoot differently, with more space and shot variety, at least on this game. Excellent layout, possibly Richie’s best ever. Fun shots, cool ramps and wireforms. Modes are distinct, and the music and callouts are immersive. How you feel about the art depends how much you like this hand-drawn style. It’s not bad, the playfield looks pretty good. I’m not a fan of the translite, but there are alternates. I finally own one of these now, a nice example. I’m learning more and more about it, and I understand the appeal now.
7.856/10
6 years ago
The Simpsons Pinball Party Stern, 2003
Ok, this is one of those games I really WANT to like. Whenever I see one in the wild, I put a buck or two in it. The problem? The gameplay is clunky to me. The playfield is cluttered on the left with pops, Comic Book Guy and then the living room upper playfield, which is silly and doesn't work well on games I've played. The upper flipper, needed for locking multiballs, is tiny and doesn't work well on some games. The garage door is glitchy. The mini TV is cheap looking and has terrible resolution with so few dots. It was way ahead of its time, now all new games seem to have a mini LCD screen on the playfield. This game does have a great theme. I love the Simpsons. I just don't feel this game captures the Simpson universe well at all. A giant Homer head? What for? Bart on his skateboard? And why, in 2003, when they were in like season 14, is Comic Book Guy so prominently featured? Maybe it's me. I know people like this game. I can appreciate the rules are deep. Maybe if I owned a mint condition game, in my home, and could play it for hours at a time, I might get it. As it stands, I feel this is a miss. Also, if this is such a keeper, why does it always seem like 10 of them are for sale in the Market? This game feels like Stern attempted to make a Simpsons game without really being fans of the series. This could have been amazing. Maybe it was when first released. The ones I've played over the years are pretty clunky and remind me of Southpark, another cartoon theme with a cheap and cheesy feel to it. No thank you.
UPDATE - Ok, I was wrong. I admit, I never played a fully working one in the wild that wasn’t clunky or not working fully. But the bigger problem, I never gave the code and rules a chance. I was a casual player then, and I didn’t appreciate the work that went into this pin. I’m starting to now. I will update again after playing at home, now that I finally own one.
UPDATE - Ok, I was wrong. I admit, I never played a fully working one in the wild that wasn’t clunky or not working fully. But the bigger problem, I never gave the code and rules a chance. I was a casual player then, and I didn’t appreciate the work that went into this pin. I’m starting to now. I will update again after playing at home, now that I finally own one.
8.520/10
6 years ago
CSI: Crime Scene Investigation Stern, 2008
I’ve owned this one for just over a year now, and we still really enjoy this change-of-pace pin. This game was designed by Pat Lawlor and John Borg, software by Lyman Sheats and others, and music and sound by David Thiel. So, there is definitely craftsmanship and talent in this pin. I like the all-star team that built this for Stern, I like the crime theme, and I like the unique layout of the playfield. I noticed that many people said this game is underrated, and is quite fun. Most of the low ratings were from people who said the game wasn't deep enough, or was too stop/go. I don't mind stop/go games like POTC or WOZ. I enjoy games with several clear modes, goals and easy to understand rules. The callouts, sounds and lights on the playfield direct you very well. As everyone on here has said, there are 3 multiball modes, and each is easy to start. However, each is hard to complete. They get increasingly difficult. Also, there are 4 "mini" modes to complete. These are mostly timed modes, including suspect shakedown, fingerprint frenzy, DNA and ballistics. The upper left flipper is actually important because it shoots directly into the morgue, where the skill shot, extra ball, special and other rewards can be earned. It also allows you to hit 2 of the bullet standup targets, necessary for ballistics mode, a very lucrative mode. IMHO, there is plenty to do here for the average player and collector. If you are into very fast games (like a Steve Richie Spider-Man or Star Wars) you may not enjoy the slower, busier playfield Lawlor has designed. But the toys are interactive and fun, the skull ball lock is great, and I love the centrifuge! The playfield is colorful and attractive if LEDs added. The backglass is boring and by-the-numbers, but it's based on a t.v. show. Overall, I was thrilled to discover this somewhat rare game. Because it is ranked so low, I picked one up for less than half the cost of a new Stern. Just a really nice surprise and eye-opener. It is super easy to understand and play but difficult to master and beat. Isn't that what pinball is about?
7.591/10
6 years ago
Star Wars (LE) Stern, 2017
Fast, fast, fast. And difficult. The theme is a home run, no question. And the sounds and video clips are great. The option to choose a character, which then affects the missions you can choose, is groundbreaking, IMHO. With every ball this game lets you choose what goal you want to tackle next. This “modern” design, along with the terrific video screen and the mini video monitor on the playfield are utilized nicely. It feels like a SW movie. The downside, mainly somewhat overwhelming rules and ultra short games. R2D2 seemed to appear often when I lost my ball, and I quickly got used to seeing him. I couldn’t really enjoy the video clips or even see what the screen was instructing me to do because I lost my ball too fast. Admittedly, I am pretty new to this one. The design is just ok. I wasn’t pulled into the game right away and I felt some shots were very hard. The bank of targets under the mini LCD screen seems too close and it can send your ball right back at you. One of the loops also sends the ball almost SDTM. More diversity in the playfield design would have been nice.
More play is needed on this one, but I enjoyed BM66 more right away than SW, but I suspect SW is a better game to own in the home, due to difficulty and complexity. I felt GB was too hard and crowded at first, but now I love it. I’ll update this after spending a few more hours on it. Tie fighter battle is fun tho, and the hyperloop is pretty cool. It definitely has some cool features, but it’s a very fast, punishing game. It all depends on your style!
*Played this one more over the last few months. I just can't get into it. Not enough variability in the shots or enough toys or something. I can't rate this one among the better Stern games of late. Metallica, AS, Iron Maiden are all much, much better. This pin, more than any other, keeps me wishing it was great and I keep wanting to buy it. But I always stop myself because, while I adore Star Wars and the art package, it just isn't much fun for me. It's almost worth owning just to look at it...almost. The problem is that, including the 3-bank stand ups, there are 8 main shots and 5 of them send the ball right back at you. Left orbit, right orbit, left horseshoe, right horseshoe and the bank of multipliers all present a threat. That’s assuming you don’t miss or hit the Jedi training stand ups, which are also risky. Only the 2 ramps and the mystery scoop are “safe.” Nothing about the code will ever change that. The auto plunge is deadly too.
*Owned an LE for awhile and I did like it more than I did early on, but not enough to hold my interest. No doubt others will enjoy it more!
More play is needed on this one, but I enjoyed BM66 more right away than SW, but I suspect SW is a better game to own in the home, due to difficulty and complexity. I felt GB was too hard and crowded at first, but now I love it. I’ll update this after spending a few more hours on it. Tie fighter battle is fun tho, and the hyperloop is pretty cool. It definitely has some cool features, but it’s a very fast, punishing game. It all depends on your style!
*Played this one more over the last few months. I just can't get into it. Not enough variability in the shots or enough toys or something. I can't rate this one among the better Stern games of late. Metallica, AS, Iron Maiden are all much, much better. This pin, more than any other, keeps me wishing it was great and I keep wanting to buy it. But I always stop myself because, while I adore Star Wars and the art package, it just isn't much fun for me. It's almost worth owning just to look at it...almost. The problem is that, including the 3-bank stand ups, there are 8 main shots and 5 of them send the ball right back at you. Left orbit, right orbit, left horseshoe, right horseshoe and the bank of multipliers all present a threat. That’s assuming you don’t miss or hit the Jedi training stand ups, which are also risky. Only the 2 ramps and the mystery scoop are “safe.” Nothing about the code will ever change that. The auto plunge is deadly too.
*Owned an LE for awhile and I did like it more than I did early on, but not enough to hold my interest. No doubt others will enjoy it more!
8.072/10
6 years ago
Batman 66 (Premium) Stern, 2016
I’ve only just started playing BM66, but I was pleasantly surprised with the smooth gameplay. I feel the colors and art are great, and the campy videos, callouts and theme are perfect for this title. It’s easier than the new Star Wars, and more straight-forward. It’s almost simple, except for the cool crane, borrowed from BM Dark Knight, and the spinning wheel supercomputer. The spinning wheel toy is silly, but I’ll admit it works on this game. I didn’t experience the odd angles or difficult shots others have described. I also didn’t get my ball trapped anywhere. I feel the shots on GB are much more difficult.
I need to spend a few more hours on this one, but my initial impression is good. It’s a silly, campy, family-friendly game that isn’t especially innovative, except the spinning wheel target is a nice touch. It’s a beautiful looking game, and the one I played had the latest code update, and I must say I am impressed, if not blown away, by this fun Stern title. It’s definitely worth an hour in an arcade from time to time, and it may be a decent pin at home, especially for a family. (I need to learn the rules and depth of code). The new video screens are fantastic too. Both on BM66 and SW, the size is perfect and the image quality is outstanding. There is more quality here than I expected, but I wouldn’t say this one will become a classic.
The bat-phone ringing to start you off is immersive! The quality of the final code will really determine how this one is respected. It’s got the looks and features to be a keeper. *update. Played another few rounds on this one and I do see where people feel the game is a bit cheap feeling. It feels like the cost of the amazing digital tv screen may have required less money for a solid-built game. The new Star Wars, which I played right next to it, feels similarly cheap. Don’t get me wrong, they both have ALOT going for them, but Batman is a very plain, fan layout with cheap metal ramps and flimsy materials. The new Walking Dead, also by Stern, lacks the new tv screens, and feels much sturdier and higher quality. IMHO. It looks great, it feels and shoots just OK.
I need to spend a few more hours on this one, but my initial impression is good. It’s a silly, campy, family-friendly game that isn’t especially innovative, except the spinning wheel target is a nice touch. It’s a beautiful looking game, and the one I played had the latest code update, and I must say I am impressed, if not blown away, by this fun Stern title. It’s definitely worth an hour in an arcade from time to time, and it may be a decent pin at home, especially for a family. (I need to learn the rules and depth of code). The new video screens are fantastic too. Both on BM66 and SW, the size is perfect and the image quality is outstanding. There is more quality here than I expected, but I wouldn’t say this one will become a classic.
The bat-phone ringing to start you off is immersive! The quality of the final code will really determine how this one is respected. It’s got the looks and features to be a keeper. *update. Played another few rounds on this one and I do see where people feel the game is a bit cheap feeling. It feels like the cost of the amazing digital tv screen may have required less money for a solid-built game. The new Star Wars, which I played right next to it, feels similarly cheap. Don’t get me wrong, they both have ALOT going for them, but Batman is a very plain, fan layout with cheap metal ramps and flimsy materials. The new Walking Dead, also by Stern, lacks the new tv screens, and feels much sturdier and higher quality. IMHO. It looks great, it feels and shoots just OK.
8.691/10
6 years ago
White Water Williams, 1993
Great game. Excellent flow, which is surprising given the design and heavy use of upper playfield. REALLY fun. Only complaint is with music and sounds, and the dots are limited. Hardly matters. Fun design and pretty good art package. This one is a keeper and belongs among the classics. And, it features Bigfoot! diverting shots on the very important upper playfield! The ramps are amongst the very best, maybe THE best.
7.820/10
6 years ago
Attack from Mars Bally, 1995
This is a decent, fairly repetitive game which I get bored of quickly. Maybe I haven't played it deeply into the rule set? I hesitate to say it, because I know people love this game, but it's too simple and silly for my tastes. Overrated, but still a nice game.
Update - since giving the AFMr time, I can definitely respect this pin more than I did in the past. The 3 bank drop target and center shot to destroy the enemy ships is innovative and rewarding to hit. It’s not as impressive as the castle on MM, but it’s still a very satisfying shot Steve Richie borrowed for Star Trek. The LE remake is stunning. The colors, the green paint, the huge color DMD, the awesome topper. This is an approachable, yet very challenging game that has great humor and a sense of style all its own.
Update - since giving the AFMr time, I can definitely respect this pin more than I did in the past. The 3 bank drop target and center shot to destroy the enemy ships is innovative and rewarding to hit. It’s not as impressive as the castle on MM, but it’s still a very satisfying shot Steve Richie borrowed for Star Trek. The LE remake is stunning. The colors, the green paint, the huge color DMD, the awesome topper. This is an approachable, yet very challenging game that has great humor and a sense of style all its own.
8.588/10
6 years ago
Spider-Man Stern, 2007
Arguably the most fun, complete, and most well designed game of all-time.* Not especially complicated, but that's a plus with this game. Easy to play, with obvious goals and rules. Just a great game. Amazing flow, with lots of combos and you can stack lots of modes. It's everything more complicated games like Ghostbusters are not. Fun, good-looking and great call outs. I don't mind the DMD movie clips either. I love this pin. UPDATE - After owning for 6 months, I still respect this game a lot and it’s a truly great theme. They nailed the feel and spirit of Spider-Man in my opinion. The call outs from the movies and the actors are great and I would miss them on the VE. But my comment about it being arguably the best pin ever was overstated. It’s a solid, fast, engaging game that is easier and more smooth than Ironman, and the rules are super easy to follow. People say it’s not deep, but have you ever gotten to Super Hero? I haven’t. After owning LOTR (the best game I’ve ever played), and playing more and more pins on location, I would say this game is great, but not a best-ever contender. After 2 years without SM, I'm bringing him back to the collection. There is something about this game, something familiar. It's just a game guests and friends can easily play, and better players can try to reach Super Hero. Yes, collecting the 4 villains over and over can be a bit repetitive, but there is more to do in this game. Just a fantastic translation from a blockbuster movie to a pin. It just oozes theme! Color DMD on this pin is a MUST.
8.220/10
6 years ago
Pirates of the Caribbean Stern, 2006
This is a very good Stern deck from the period in the mid-2000's when people say there was a lull in the industry. If that's true, games like this and Spider-Man helped rescue Stern and pinball. I really enjoy this game. It's got great theme and art, the playfield is really gorgeous. The ship(s) is fun to sink. Good multiball modes that are not always easy to get. I would have preferred more movie clips and quotes. They used voice actors to make what sound like generic callouts and I feel they missed out on tons of cool sounds and footage from the movies. Had that been better, this game would ooze theme. Instead, it's more a general pirate game than one based on the movies. That's how I feel anyway.
Fun game, good shots and long ball times make this a good game for family. Some shots are tricky, but overall it's not super hard.
UPDATE: I finally found a beautiful, HUO version and bought it. I do agree with most descriptions of this pin being stop and go, which is true. Several places to send the ball where things happen while you wait and watch. The Tortuga/Port Royal "cannonball chamber" which spins your ball around, the upper playfield which your ball is sent to by shots to the orbits, and the sinking ships and Kraken battles, of course. The sinking ship is just a fantastic toy. I wish the Kraken was more animated. But this pin feels quite different than the typical "fan" layout. Yes, it's more stop and go, but that's not a bad thing in this case. One of the best Stern pins of the 2000's. In an era often cited as a lull in the industry, Stern made TSPP, LOTR, this game and Spider-Man. Each is very well regarded since.
Fun game, good shots and long ball times make this a good game for family. Some shots are tricky, but overall it's not super hard.
UPDATE: I finally found a beautiful, HUO version and bought it. I do agree with most descriptions of this pin being stop and go, which is true. Several places to send the ball where things happen while you wait and watch. The Tortuga/Port Royal "cannonball chamber" which spins your ball around, the upper playfield which your ball is sent to by shots to the orbits, and the sinking ships and Kraken battles, of course. The sinking ship is just a fantastic toy. I wish the Kraken was more animated. But this pin feels quite different than the typical "fan" layout. Yes, it's more stop and go, but that's not a bad thing in this case. One of the best Stern pins of the 2000's. In an era often cited as a lull in the industry, Stern made TSPP, LOTR, this game and Spider-Man. Each is very well regarded since.
8.176/10
6 years ago
FunHouse Williams, 1990
Funhouse is one of my personal favorite pinball machines. I feel it's one of the more difficult, if only because the playfield is packed with objects, particularly on the right side, which really limit your shot options. Some games are wide open except at the very top of the playfield, like Medieval Madness, and this is the opposite. Rudy is simply a riot as a featured toy. His call outs are fun, his eyes are creepy, and hitting him in his face and into his mouth never gets old. I've even had him close his mouth on the ball, stopping the game, twice in my life. This game feels a little primitive, especially with the dots, but it's really a unique, tricky and clever game. Good theme. "I'm watchin' ya!" Over the years, as I learn more about pinball, I reflect back on the pins that got me hooked on pinball. This is the machine, more than any other, that got me into the hobby. In it's own weird, antiquated way, this is a masterpiece. Rudy is simply a marvel of pinball engineering too. Would love to own one someday! Remake!
8.548/10
6 years ago
Theatre of Magic Bally, 1995
Classic, popular game with a really fun trunk toy. It's common for the trunk to be glitchy, or beaten up, but when this game is working right, it's really fun. Good theme and ambiance, kind of exotic, mysterious and carnivalesque. Good ramps, tricky shots (like into the basement). I consider this one of the first classic "modern" era pinball machines. This machine, along with Addams Family, Twilight Zone, and Funhouse, seemed to usher in a sort of revival of pinball in the early 1990's. Excellent game. This game has great flow. The two lock lanes, the ramps, the orbit shots. You can really get the ball moving and keep in moving in this game. The trunk is a nice break from the speed and chaos in this game, and it really has a perfect balance of a fast, flowing game with some nice breaks to start modes. This game deserves to be a top 10 game I feel.
8.500/10
6 years ago
The Addams Family Bally, 1992
Classic game. Unusual play field with some truly innovative features. "Thing" is a fun toy, and the vault, electric chair and ramps are fun. This isn't an easy game by any means, but once you understand the goals, and get into a groove, it's easy to see why this one is so popular. Most arcades feature it, and people love to own it. I grew up playing this machine when I began playing pinball in my 20's. The only reason I wouldn't buy one is that it's so familiar to me. Great game.
8.588/10
6 years ago
Medieval Madness Williams, 1997
Great game. Some of best call outs in pinball. Good design, nice layout. Easy to understand the goals, but hard to master. Just a very good game for beginners or pros. I do find destroying the castle a bit repetitive after awhile, but I know that's where the points are. It's a lot like sinking the ships in Pirates of C. Overall one of the greats.
9.108/10
6 years ago
Ghostbusters (Premium) Stern, 2016
I've owned Ghostbusters Premium for about two months*, and I’m just now able to fairly evaluate this game. The game arrived with a subway coil/kicker that didn't work. I reported it to Stern, who was willing to talk me through trying to replace it myself, and they did replace the coil, and a node board to be safe, but I'm not pinball savvy and I was concerned it was over my head. Fortunately, the new coil is installled and it works great. Now for the proper review...
This is really a beautiful looking game. Great lighting, beautiful and creative artwork, very original and not photoshopped at all. Game play is fast, and difficult, especially at first. Steep ramps, lots of items on the play field make the game very tricky and you must be precise with shots. Not really for the "casual" players at all. Super wide flipper gap, plus bouncy balls and air balls make adding mods and guards a must. Feels like they really could have polished this game up a bit, and it may have been top 10. As it is, you must be patient, make adjustments, and get it working the way it should, frankly, out of the box.
I followed all the recommendations here about mods, and now I can appreciate the game Ghostbusters was intended to be. This is a really fun game. Some games are intuitive, others you need to understand the rules to really enjoy it. This game I enjoyed so much more after I read the rules and goals. Now I understand why it’s important to hit things in order, pay attention to the screen and call outs, and especially watch the playfield for arrows and other signals. The game guides you as you go, once you know what to look and listen for. After a couple days of playing my Premium after mods were installed, I scored over a billion, a good score for me.
This game requires mods, tweaks, patience, and time. Once you get it right, and get into the deep rules, it’s creative, complex and really immersive! Great game. REALLY glad I didn’t give up on it. *AFTER 9 months of owning this game, I like it very much and it's one of my all-time favs. Get it dialed in, use airball guards. I'm just now getting scores in the top 20 on Pinside, after figuring out the scoring and strategy. Great game. Just takes a little patience to get it playing right. But I would buy this game NIB again and then add all the recommended mods. Plus, this game is a blast to add toys and mods to. A gem in my collection!
This is really a beautiful looking game. Great lighting, beautiful and creative artwork, very original and not photoshopped at all. Game play is fast, and difficult, especially at first. Steep ramps, lots of items on the play field make the game very tricky and you must be precise with shots. Not really for the "casual" players at all. Super wide flipper gap, plus bouncy balls and air balls make adding mods and guards a must. Feels like they really could have polished this game up a bit, and it may have been top 10. As it is, you must be patient, make adjustments, and get it working the way it should, frankly, out of the box.
I followed all the recommendations here about mods, and now I can appreciate the game Ghostbusters was intended to be. This is a really fun game. Some games are intuitive, others you need to understand the rules to really enjoy it. This game I enjoyed so much more after I read the rules and goals. Now I understand why it’s important to hit things in order, pay attention to the screen and call outs, and especially watch the playfield for arrows and other signals. The game guides you as you go, once you know what to look and listen for. After a couple days of playing my Premium after mods were installed, I scored over a billion, a good score for me.
This game requires mods, tweaks, patience, and time. Once you get it right, and get into the deep rules, it’s creative, complex and really immersive! Great game. REALLY glad I didn’t give up on it. *AFTER 9 months of owning this game, I like it very much and it's one of my all-time favs. Get it dialed in, use airball guards. I'm just now getting scores in the top 20 on Pinside, after figuring out the scoring and strategy. Great game. Just takes a little patience to get it playing right. But I would buy this game NIB again and then add all the recommended mods. Plus, this game is a blast to add toys and mods to. A gem in my collection!
8.760/10
6 years ago
Wizard of Oz Jersey Jack, 2013
This is a beautiful pin. Maybe the most beautiful ever made. The theme is very good, the rule set is deep and, while not easy to follow on the LCD full color screen, is pretty easy to understand once you play it several times. A better game for home collections. It is a game with long ball times and a huge play field. Plenty of toys and things to do. The only cons are the "No Place Like Home" mode is almost impossible to complete. I really loved the concept of this mode and Save Toto, which each save your ball from the left and right out lanes if successfully completed. But only the Toto mode is fairly achievable. You can tweak the game settings to make it more user friendly, which I strongly recommend.
This was my first pin purchased new, and it was a great choice. Now if only Jersey Jack would make Alice in Wonderland...a theme just dying to be made into a pinball machine. Think of the modes! Tea Party Mode, Battle the Queen of Hearts, Down the Rabbit Hole, Tweedle Dee and Dumb drop targets, Find the Cheshire Cat...maybe someday.
Until then, WOZ is a fun, deep, very well-built pin. Stern must keep it's build quality up to avoid falling behind JJ.
This was my first pin purchased new, and it was a great choice. Now if only Jersey Jack would make Alice in Wonderland...a theme just dying to be made into a pinball machine. Think of the modes! Tea Party Mode, Battle the Queen of Hearts, Down the Rabbit Hole, Tweedle Dee and Dumb drop targets, Find the Cheshire Cat...maybe someday.
Until then, WOZ is a fun, deep, very well-built pin. Stern must keep it's build quality up to avoid falling behind JJ.
