I haven't yet started really designing my own prints beyond basic shapes and such, but I would definitely recommend the Ender 3 Pro that goes on sale at Microcenter for $99 for the folks here asking about getting started. Manual bed leveling is tedious, but other than that it's fairly plug and play.

I'm brand new to 3D printing and have already printed loads of useful stuff with mine. I like switching colors, so I've already spent more in filament than I paid for the stupid printer - that's how they getcha! Just like printers and ink - what they lose on the hardware they will make back tenfold on the printing materials.

Another vote for the Ender 3 pro - if you're near a Micro Center, they've been running a coupon a couple times a year where you can get an Ender 3 Pro for $99. I bought one last year and have been printing something two or three times a week since. Check your bed level before every print and you'll be set.

I've replaced the magnetic mat once - one day it just stopped adhering, even after being cleaned with alcohol. I've also replaced the tub that carries the filament to the hot end due to a snafu on my end. Other than that, I've printed through two full spools of filament without major issues.

I've been lurking this thread for a while and I'm excited to have something to share!

The node 10 in my RUSH died again, so I took the opportunity to design a printable wedge to hold the ramp up in the proper position while I wait on another replacement. The game plays like absolute garbage if the ramp is stuck down, and without node 10 it won't move. Since it uses a stepper motor, it won't simply "stay in place" without intervention. With this ramp, the game plays more like the Pro model.

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If anyone wants a copy of the printable file, it's here: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:5913092