This topic has certainly been covered many times over here and on RGP. I agree it's best to judge them on a case by case basis. I have owned several AABs and found them to be fun, but generally prefer replay games. I know the argument that AABs last longer in home use, though some say that is a detriment of them being too long. I think where you grew up plays a role as well. I prefer replay games as I grew up in a replay state.

Maresa is just bleah, but I really love the purple theme on Pin Up, mine went to a worthy collection.

They are rare indeed. I had the pleasure of restoring a low plays Pin Up last year (remember the thread?) Perfect glass, and no kick out hole wear!

I think your last sentence should be explored further. Since the vast majority of EMs are still going to those who grew up with them, it would make sense there would be greater demand for replay games, since most of us grew up with them. Nostalgia cannot be overlooked in the collector market. Most folks want to relive that experience again. I have restored lots of wedgeheads over the last 5 years. Unless a game is extra special (excellent original condition), like the Pin-Up I did last year, I still find the replay games sell much easier than AAB games. It may be local market conditions will vary, but that's been my experience.

I think there were a few titles that were AAB only. If that is the case, then the designers were using that platform as their base of design yes?