Ha, that's us in that line! Wasn't going to pass up a change to play MG. Eric, Roger & Max did a terrific job getting it flipping properly - was a lot of fun.

We only did a day trip on Friday this year, as last year's Expo was really not that good. Credit to Rob Berk who clearly listened to the feedback, as I would rate this year 100% improved. Some things like a concrete floor and the concessions (meh) are due to the Venue choice, but driving in from downstate, we do like this location better that the old one which was further in the City.

Some random thoughts:

1. Magic Girl - awesome to get a chance to play. I liked it, of course with the line there was not enough time/plays to really dive in;
2. Awesome of Pinball Brothers to bring two Queens and several Aliens. I have an Alien LV on order so was happy to get a chance to play them. The venue made it hard to hear the Queen - it shot nice but software still a work in progress I think;
3. On the other hand, James Bond pro and premium pins both worked and shot great, even at this stage of code. Had the modes working, no glitches, some uneven scoring but all in all - I think it is a winner;
4. Thanks to the distributors and manufacturers who all brought a large selection of pins (especially Tilt Amusements). There were plenty to play and lines (other than Magic Girl) were short. Lots of modern pins, plus a very nice collection of working classics (emphasis working - unlike last year, very few problems and Rob's personnel pins were working well too);
5. Fast had a Fathom 2.0 - A stunning looking machine, no doubt about it. Not sure how I felt about the LCDs in the Apron - maybe just having Deeproot Pinbar flashbacks - but I found it hard to remember to look down at it. Not sure what else you can put that when you are recreating a classic pin though, so it might just take a few more plays to get use to;
6. Weird Al Multimorphic pin - If you are a Weird Al fan - this has it all. Definitely the best so far on this platform;
7. Got to play several other pins we hadn't before (including Hercules with a consensus once was enough) but there did seem to be a few misses (didn't see an Elvira House of Horrors for example - it might have been there but didn't see one). Bought a few items from some vendors, got the requisite t-shirts with the Brian Allen artwork (who was there and we bought one of his prints as well), and talked with Spooky folks, CGC reps, and other industry folks and pinball personalities. Overall a great time.

If we had to make a list of improvements for next year, it would be more for the vendors than Rob (other than concessions - though there was plenty to eat off site in the near vicinity). Stern's carpet felt good underfoot compared to the concrete form, and their space felt well defined and laid out. Recommendation a more polished presentation area if you went to the expense of a getting a booth. These are now $8-$10K and more machines you are trying to sell, I think presentation matters. I think TPF does a better job of this (from looking at reviews - planning on going for the first time this year).

All in all, though, we were impressed with the improvements made and am looking forward to next year's Expo!

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I agree, loved their enthusiasm and the games, especially this Rapid Transit and the Play Ball. Surprising fun to play. As the owner point out, these games are almost 90 years old and still playable.

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That's why I couldn't find it in IPDB! And though I am a lifelong Cardinal fan I will be rooting for the Phillies. They are certainly getting their monies worth with Harper in the post season.