Yes, modern pinball rules are a bit lazy and confusing, which is why I re-code almost all the games I play.
I completely agree with the OP, you have to earn all the wonderful special things a pinball game can reward you with. Then you'll feel wonderful and special yourself.
Terminator 2 is still the best multiball for me, that had purpose beyond just hitting the flashing shots to collect a Jackpot. A simple game, with simple rules but you feel good playing it. The reason I keep returning to it, year after year, decade after decade.