Several people at CES reported getting to the wizard mode already. Now it's early code I'm sure, but that might worry me some for home use if there aren't going to be substantial code updates.

But really, we all know this song and how to dance to it already, if you're an early buyer nobody wants to hear you cry about code anymore. You know what you're getting into spending that kind of money on a promise and a dream.

Dwight is going to be on the Thursday stream, sure he'll shed some light on things then.

Because sometimes it can feel more like:

Option A. Long slog to feel any kind of accomplishment

Option B. Fun game without a huge time commitment

I respect Keefer hugely, but his style of games don't appeal to me for instance, I'd just look at them and then walk over to something more basic because I didn't feel like trying for that epic 45 minute to an hour game.

The truth is that simple games can still have depth and fun if there are multiple was to approach them and enjoy them. I'm less worried about shallow vs depth than I am about multiple ways to play vs linear. I would never own a GB for instance, I strongly dislike the mode ladder system and hearing Who Brought The Dog over and over. Same reason why Capcom's Airborne is annoying, you have to play it the same way every time.

TNA is a good modern example of a simple game with return value, but a lot of the classic 90s BW hold their value for the same reason.

I spent $6k on my TNA, no regrets. I’ve been tempted by the AFM remake. The right game that’s fun doesn’t need insane depth.

But in general I hear you and agree. Pinball is crazy expensive and you want play time value for your money. If it’s “simple” that’s okay if it has replayability. That’s the sign of a good game, regardless of complication.

Replay is sort of nebulous, but a game with a “good soul” has it. I don’t hate on Sterns at all, but a lot of them for me are soul-less and not worth that money. Competent games, but lacking the spark to be worth it. That’s what I look for the most.

STOP TELLING ME TO GET CLOSER, I HAVE THE CHECK PERFECTLY FRAMED

On topic and more serious, anyone who doubts Dwight's passion for pinball should read his blog. It will quickly become clear that it's not an issue:

http://mypinballblog.blogspot.com