I played Stern's Star Wars, both a Pro and an LE, for the first time on the same day as the Pirates reveal and now I am trying to figure out how to get rid of some games to make room for both a JJPOTC LE and a Stern SW Pro. The SW Pro was a lot of fun with a great lay out and fun shots and cool video, sound and call outs. I think the disappointment comes from thinking the ultimate theme (for many) should be the ultimate pinball machine. This isn't the case but the game is pretty damn good for a $5300 NIB game. I would never pay an additional $3000-4000 for an LE or $2000 for a premium. I think the LE where I was had $9500 as the price.
The code issues, particularly with BM66, are definitely a concern but Stern is not going anywhere any time soon. I am a fan of any good pinball game and want to see them all succeed. JJP is without a doubt the best pinball manufacturer OAT IMO but Stern has made some great games and will make more great games.