So, I do think there should be a category for this is my first one, but I plan on collecting all three one day.
Because, I totally do... And I know some of the fears that this release will cause the other two to inflate. But, I think that might be right in the short term, but long term of 5-10 years is I think the prices will settle down somewhat.
I do think their will be a bit of a price adjustment when the bubble bursts. I don't predict the doom and gloom pins will become useless thought that some hold. I think pins will always hold some modicum of value...
And even if they do go up in price. I think somethings are worth paying for.
A the Elvira Triple set would be a nice one to own.

Anyway... I paid my deposit last week. Can't wait to get the new machine. It's going to be sweet!!!!

Okay... So I got mine today!!!!!

A few thoughts. I'm kind of frustrated right now. And I don't want anyone to chime in, "TOLD YA SO!!!!", but this game is glitchy to all get out.
My game rebooted 3-4 times on me. Seemed to happen mostly during the multiballs.
Speaking of the multiballs.
I got the junk in the attic multiball and I didn't get any speak during the intro. Sure the video was there. But, no audio.
Audio goes in and out for a lot of the stuff from time to time.

The garage lock doesn't always register. So when a ball gets shot in there and it doesn't read that it should be locked... Well... The game kind of ends.
Because a ball search will not release that ball. What I have to do is shut the game off, and boot it back up and the ball kicks out. This has happened 8 times today... if not more like 10-12... Really takes the fun out of what should be a fun time...

Lastly. While playing the game. I noticed a piece of plastic come out of the garage ball lock area after it ejected a ball.
It looks like a bit of the sculpted house. But, I don't see any broken pieces anywhere. But, I looked and looked. But, I can take a picture of hte broken plastic.
I think perhaps it was a bit that got left in by mistake when they assembled the machine... At least I hope so.

It's not all bad. I did hear "How About Another Ball" as a callout for the shoot again. That is nice that it is in there. Had fun for a little bit. But, more frustrating today than fun.
And it shouldn't be frustrating.
I get that the code isn't all there. But, this isn't even playable. I'm not angry. I'm not disappointed, I'm FRUSTRATED.
I would have thought that Stern would be smarter than to release a game in this shoddy of a state.

With all that said. I still look forward to seeing how the game progresses in the code updates. As the experience I had with my Iron Maiden was amazing.
But, Iron Maiden started off a heck of a lot more complete than this. And really Stern should have higher standards, and know better. Game was in development for a long, long time, and this is the launch code.... Actually 2nd update....

Lastly... I do like the MB starts in the game. Hope those stay.

Not sure I know what you mean? Did my Iron Maiden Prem ship at 1.0... No, it didn't. I got one of the first Chicagoland Prems and I think it shipped at .96 or .97. I do know a code update just came out a few days before I got mine. Of course I got a premium, and the Pros shipped first. my Elvira code is whatever code is out now. .83 or whatever.

I told my distributor about it.
I also think I found where the plastic piece of my house broke off at.

The backside of the house left side low corner. I was hoping it was just debris that didn't get removed from the game...
I think I might need a replacement piece for this. As I think the remaining part of it is probably lost its durability and also... Even though I don't plan on selling. Having a chunk missing, regardless of if a ramp is hiding the damage or not, I don't like.
That will have to get replaced...

Now, for the positives.
I played it again for 45-60 minutes. Had a lot more fun. Still had a few of the ball search issues as before. I think there will be a lot of strategy to this game, once the code is ironed out. Lots of ways to get points. Not a solely mode based game, which I like. You can go for happy hour and get nice points there, especially if you get the double trouble playfield bonus. Haven't really been able to pay attention to the orbit/car mode so far. Don't know if that's like happy hour, but with orbits instead, or if it has slightly different rules. It be cool if it was slightly different.

Also I kept missing out on gargoils gone wild or whatever that mode is. I had it like 3 times today and insta drained before I could activate all the times.

You could go for mb's all day. But, its best to try to stack those. And I'm not certain if you can start a new deadhead while in mb, probably can't, but you certainly can finish one off.

My favorite mode so far is Teenagers from Space. I just like the people getting zapped and turned into skeletons. That to me is so much fun.

The side to side action on this game is killer. Lots and lots of drains to the outlanes while trying to get control. One thing is the pops giveth and taketh. It stinks to start a mode, it go into the pops and then drain to the left outlane. But, at the same time I've had balls go into the pops and then into the junk in the trunk for a quick lock.

And I do think there needs to be a callout to acknowledge you being a bit sneaky, when you lock the ball that way. She'll be like. Why you naughty boy. Or You're a sneaky one... Something.

Lastly. I think I might need to tinker with my crypt gargoils. As they do register. But, its weird. Sometimes even a huge hit won't register. Then sometimes a slight hit registers... Weird.

So. For me. I just got to get my damaged house sorted out. But, I will anxiously await the next code updates. With my Iron Maiden I waited every other code update to actually update. But, something tells me I'm going to be updating with each and every update. And as I said before that will be a fun journey.

Okay... So I played it for a little bit today... Rough day... Long story... Won't begin to get into it.
So I actually was able to open up the game and put a 143 million point score together. Would have been better, but when I drained out of a multiball and still had one ball left. The flippers died and my game ended.
I think this is because of the lock issue I've been having and the game loses track of how many balls are in play and where they are at. And not really a glitch glitch...
What I do like is. I finally got house party or something. I also got gargoils gone wild or something, but I got them at the same time..
However, what was really cool. I got the nice organ introduction.
I like the callout. I think the callout from Party Monsters has more energy to it, and is a better callout. But, having her onscreen and make the callout really, really cool.

My only beef with her clips. And this is a minor gripe, because in a way it fits the theme how they have them and shot them. They look like a one camera bargain basement horror tv show... So again... Fit the theme. But, I would prefered some slicker camera works and zoom ins when she says stuff... Like how the camera is for Scared Stiffs animations. There might be a few bits of that here or there... And that could be all that is needed. But, so far none of that...
Still. I'm glad the organ is in this pin.

Lastly. I don't think its a switch issue with the balls getting locked or misplaced. It seems to happen if I have a ball locked int he garage. And I restart the game without ending proper 3 ball play. I just hold the start button down and get a new game. Then next time I fire into there. It doesn't register. So I have to restart the game by powering down the device.
It kicks the one ball out.
But, then ball searches. And I think the only time that ball pops out is during a mb... Don't know... But, it does pop out, and I think that is what cost me my game ending...

But, at leat I had fun today shooting it, and that is the highlight of my crap sandwich of a day.

Opened it up even more. Got a better score of 274,079,160. Not a great score. Could have been better. But, isn't that always the case with pinball. That no matter how amazing your game it could have been better.
I got to Gappa. The first Gappa mode. Sadly I only hit one shot. Then I failed to get control and drained.

One thing about this game. I know people claim its the same layout as attack from mars, or maybe a bit like Monster Bash... Or Medieval Madness... I can't comment on Medieval Madness as I've only played that game 2-3 times and maybe about 15-20 plays, but this game shoots like its own thing. It does not handle or shoot like Attack From Mars. Mars is easier to get control of the ball. This game can be a challenge to get control.

The deadhead bash toy surprisingly though is a safe shot to hit. And I like that. The ramp into the house while a simple shot on the surface, if you brick it, it can be sdtm drain. Right now. I feel this game is really helping me learn my nudging and control skills. I know nudging comes into play in all games. But, to me this game keeps you on your toes in ways that other games really don't. Which is funny, because the ramps in this one are buttery smooth and just shoot amazing and you can really chain the combos together with them. And the Iron Maiden ramps. Man... Those ramps are much more brutal and dangerous to go for. And I think to date the best I've ever hit in a row is like 5-6 ramp shots in maiden. Which I've owned for over a year. And I can easily hit 8 ramp shots in a row. And Have done even more during happy hour. Game has flow. But, it generates a lot of wicked side to side and can be very brutal.

So yeah. Today I'm loving my game. Going to wax it tomorrow and then play a few rounds and see how crazy the ball gets.

That might be the trouble I am getting. As it doesn't register the lock and then teh ball is stuck. I need to wait out a ball search. Lose the ball and then keep playing.

Let me know if that does work. I also think I will be contacting stern and see what they recommend.

Played it again today for about 30 minutes. I got house party... Or whatever the mode is for halfway through the haunts. But, sadly... My freaking ball shot out of the house and so that stopped the video from playing so I couldn't hear the OHHH nice Organ bit.

What was really nice. No garage lock issues at all today. Didn't have a single problem with it. So that made me happy. And my Gargoils are working amazing... I think a few whacks and they got their needed adjustments. Lucky I don't have to mess with them.

I think this game has flow. But, I also think it is brutal and things can quickly goes sideways for you. You fail to make it up that ramp to the house... Its going to be hard to avoid a sdtm. Mode starts into the pops. Gotta be ready to respond, because it can go straight into the outlane.
Ball goes into the crypt. Keep an eye out on the VUK because if it misses(which mine does about half the time) its a dangerous shot. Had one go into the left outlane directly.

And the slings in this game. They are super sensitive and really like to throw the ball into the outlane. I know that is the purpose of slings. But, with my Maiden its a bit easier to nudge and get control. Same thing with my Monster Bash. But, right now it seems like one or two slings is all it needs to go into outlanes. So I don't have much time to get control.

So while I think all the shots are indeed easy to hit. Which is amazing as there are so many shots on this pin, but it doesn't feel cramped. The ramps are easy to hit and easy to combo and the orbits are as well. So while the shots may be easy. I think the true difficulty(at least for me) is to keep control of the ball. And this game does not reward you for mode starts.
Hell even Iron Maidens shooting the ball back to you is more safe on average than those pops.

I like the challenge. Will hopefully make me a better player.

Nice. This is what the game does need more of. Can't wait to update my code now.

Deadheads were in the first one as well. Just all they were was a drop target bank I think. But, nothing major. Just a joke that carries over.

Speaking of deadheads. They're going to have to add a kiss demon's head ball save for the dead head vuk shot. It pisses me off when it goes down the left outlane or hits teh targets, but then caroms down the right outlane. Have to be the flash or superman to save it. I think its only fair, because you shouldn't get punished for making that shot. THat shouldn't be a risky shot as you need it to progress the deadheads.

When its a really supercharged shot, that is what happens sometimes for me.

And as an aside right now... Man, while I never said I lacked faith in this games code. I might have to eat some crow on it.
As this newest update is really, really great. I still don't get why they couldn't have launched it with code more inline to this update... But, as I said before. The journey of updating the code and seeing how the game progresses is going to be a fun one.

I haven't noticed any of the Elvira popping out on the screen. But, I did finish a mode 2 times and saw some of the new completion videos. However, my ball drained before I could get control so I could watch it.... GRRRRRRRRRR....

But, I feel this might just be a special pin. Maybe not in the original ground breaking type way. But, in the homage to two amazing past pins. Where this pin is a kind of greatest hits type feel to it. Nothing horribly original, but all the stuff you did love from the prior two.

Yes, I know they were in both. The post I responded to said besides Scared Stiff what's up with the dead heads.
But, I do forget what you get when you complete the left target bank. I think you get something if you complete it like 4 times in one ball... Special perhaps... I don't know. Just know that I never shoot for that. I just hit them during mb and of course when I miss and try to regain control. Same for the pizza targets.
And to a lesser extent I rarely try to shoot the Jam. Unless I need a lock and the bat rollovers are too far away from completion.

Simple rule set in Party Monsters. But, I love it. Great simple, but fun game, with great art and great callouts and great sound... And one hell of an ORGAN!

Yes... I know that... But, again this isn't a game that snuck up on stern. This is something that could have been planned out a bit better for the release. Lets be honest... This game will be white hot in sales... For at least a few months. But, did the initial dead flip stream hurt the sales. Perhaps a bit. If this was the code for that stream. There would be less negativity about it.
Less, because some people just like to hate.

I've played this pin for like 5 hours today after I updated it.
I've gotten Jar Head twice. I'm surprised he says "ASS". He's modeled off of Lee Ermy.
I've noticed a lot of new callouts, better flow between modes and also modes starting.
Also seen 3-4 of the new mode completion videos and there are multiple videos for each mode as well. Noticed some of the changed intro videos. They added some different clips of the movies before Elvira talks.

But, I haven't noticed her pop up yet. That has not occurred for me yet. Which is a bummer. I would like when code finished the pop ups be more frequent... But, I do like the new callouts during the modes. Like blah blah blah why not just call it a ray gun. If she is visible when she says it I havne't noticed. Too busy flipping. I need friends to come over so I can watch the videos while they play.

And lastly. Nope Haven't gotten the skill shot yet... But, I think the skill shot might be a short plunge to the flipper and then hit the left orbit.
I haven't tried that. As I short plunge to the flipper and go for the house. If you miss and don't hit a switch its a free shot attempt.

"Good Head" was always my favorite.

I've been thinking a lot about the skill shot as I said. I could be wrong. Because, at first I thought it might be like a Rudy from Fun House skill shot where you hit it just right, not too hard, not too soft. But, nope. I've tried that so many, many, many times. Or maybe even a bit like the skill shot from scared stiff. Where you really need to be precise in your plunge... Sadly the skill shot in scared stiff I feel is not worth going for. Its way too hard to be consistent on it. And you know what. Get a free hit on the crate. Having Crate MB is way more important than any skill shot... Just my thoughts.

Also if you notice the sign is on the left pointing to the house on the right. Which means that the orbit should be the path to take you to the secret entrance. So I think that is another clue that its on the left side and not on the side of the plunge.

Just my thoughts. I could very well be wrong. But, I'd love someone to test my theory... I'm done playing for today. But, next time I play this game I'll try it out. But, as I said. The center house ramp is just too tempting. Nice to get a free hit on it. Also, The drop target lock I like to hit too. Just in case the ball drains from bouncing back insanely fast...

But, if the super secret skill shot is worth a lot of points. Then I might have to alter my strat.

I think you mean the deadhead Aunt Surly. You hit the bash toy to defeat her. Then hit the vault when its open and the ball will shoot out the vuk. Then she will disappear...
About the attack attack. I only ever got that once. And that was the last code update. I didn't have sound either. So it is most likely a bug that will need to be fixed.

Blame the filmmakers. If its the clip I think it is, its because of the lens glare/light shining right into the camera.

I actually like a lot of the clips they used to show the Werewolf of Washington. Almost makes the movie look fun... But, then I read the reviews and not even Dean Stockwell can save that turd.. .So its up to us to save Elvira from it.

I was looking forward to this pin just like most of us for a long, time. Not as long as some people. Because, I only got deep into the hobby two years ago, but ever since I got into this hobby I've wanted this pin.
Then the deadflip stream was a kind of emotional gut punch. But, I thought about it, and I had faith in the theme, and the team.
First day playing it on the 2nd released code, I had a lot of grief, but I stuck with it.
And now playing this newest code, the game already is shaping up to be amazing. Still not there yet.

And one of the things I hope gets there. Is the final match animation.
I think it needs to be Elvira waving how she does and saying unpleasant dreams and then the camera zooms out of her house, the doors shut and then we see the house. And they have the numbers like the currently do.

That is the way to end the game. THE ONLY WAY. I hope, hope, hope they recorded her saying that line. because if they did, then they can easily do what I said above... They might already be planning it, just haven't implemented the effects in yet.

Sorry, you feel that way. Hopefully when the code is finished you'll give it another go.

One thing though is EATPM is an amazing game. Yes, its a late solid state game with alpha numeric displays. Yes, the sound callouts and quality is very limited by today's standards. But, everything that EATPM has is choice. And what a pinball machine Party Monsters is. Its a simple two ramp fan layout, but it shoots smooth and is really just so much fun to do so. And I love the ruleset. Super simple and easy to understand rules, yet they really are elegant. So I mean... At least you're comparing it to an all time classic game. Shallow or not, a great game is still and a great game and EATPM is a great game.
And I think that Elvira 3 will get there. Give it time. Its a bit of a different world now where nothing ships with completed code. Not even triple A video games with blockbuster movie sized budgets. And lets be honest. Pinball has peanut sized budgets compared to those video games.

I think the WH20 ramp would be quite cool, and as I said before the ramps in Elvira 3 are kinda boring. They're plain jane, but they are super smooth and super fast, so they do feel good to shoot, but again a bit boring... So having one unique style ramp would be cool. But, one thing I will say. Having the ramps as they are, and them being clear, you can see basically all the playfield(pop area is only really obstructed area... and its pops) without obstruction. So that is nice.

As for the hand of fate wheel. No doubt that wheel would have looked amazing. But, I kind of am glad its not there. It would have been one more thing to keep working that would break. And we really do need some function for the LCD. So I think that was a change overall for the better. Just my thoughts on that one. I do hope they do change some of the rules with the hand of fate though. As really there is no good strat to get to complete it.
When in MB with the ball save timer any ball that falls down that lane does not trigger the hand of fate. You need to be out of ball save timer for it to do so... I wish they change that rule. Because, as it is now. You might have to wait for ball save to end. While trapped up and then try to shoot the outlane with one of your free balls. Get it... Then Go back to shooting for jackpots.

You could try to shatz the inlane and then nudge it to go out if you get a really smooth hit on it... Just saying. I like the hand of fate feature. But, it only gets triggered one way. And to complete it you'd need a whole bunch of extra balls and all your shots to drain from there. This is something that most people probably won't ever achieve and its something that you'd need to work for most likely.

Which is fine. I do like the ball save option on the hand of fate. But, you only get it one time. So use wisely.

I think we should wait a bit to rate it personally. As so much isn't done yet. Not just rule updates, but there will be a lot of callouts added each update, with new animations and lots of other new stuff. So... I'm going to hold off until its closer to 1.0... If not maybe a little past 1.0... Will have to see the rate of updates. But, I think we might see updates fairly quick on this one.

I know my rating will be high on this one as I think the cab art for the LE is one of the best in the business. So art wise and toy wise I think it we all know the game kicks butt. Layout... Not original, but it shoots great and flows nicely. So I'd rate that as good but not great. Fun... Even now its off the charts. So while the code won't really dramatically alter my scores. It will still impact if I give it a great score or middle or good score. Just a little bit too much unknowns before I can rate.

And also, the lastibility. Only time will tell how I feel about this pin. And some of that is with the callouts, and animations. I do skip animations from time to time, but sometimes if I like an animation I'll let it play. Hell I skip mostly all of Monster Bash's animations on my LE. But, that's because I've seen them so often. But, I still will watch some of them from time to time. But, its callouts truly are great. And still make me smile when I hear them. And quite frankly that is what Elivra needs more of right now... She's getting there though.

So while I think I'd rate this game as a low 8 right now. I think given time and updates it could be a low 9. I don't see a mid to high 9 from myself even in the future. But, I still think its one heck of a game.

If anyone could not just post photos, but also list the instructions for this newb. I'd appreciate it. I've gotten much better with pin repair and maintenance, but, I like to see what I need to do, before I go and tinker. With these pins I'm just a bit too afraid to touch anything without knowing what each thing does and why.

Sorry for being a newb!

And also a fix for the gate for the ball lock under the house... Again... Total newb, but I don't want to bend or tinker without knowing why and how.

Hmmm... Not a big update... Just really seems more like a bug fix update. Hopefully the next one will have more content added. Will update tomorrow and give it a go.

True.

Always could go to a UPS store or another place and print them out there. Sometimes the people might refuse if they claim copyright. But, I think you should be fine with the cards. And even with a personal print, you're protected under fair use, and they really should print you image regardless. Only time they shouldn't is if you're printing 100 copies of another companies art.

Hell, I printed out one of Frazetta's Buck Rogers Covers, because I couldn't find a print of it to buy online. I did the same with Blake's Ghost of a Flea and some of his Red Dragon Stuff... And I've bought lots of Frazetta prints from his official Museum(they're actually some of the best print quality I've ever seen... You can see the texture of the canvas on the prints... But, again... Can't buy what they don't sell.).

Sorry for the tangent. But, to recap if anyone has some killer score cards, I'd also be interested.
I might dabble and see if I can make one myself. But, I like seeing what other people make. Gives me ideas.

From time to time it happens to me... Just got to stay on your toes and nudge it a little sometimes to make sure it comes cleanly back. Because, I had one yeserday that went from the left orbit to the sling and right into the right outlane. Wasn't happy... But, that is pinball.

So, I was playing today and as I play I like to let the games code and rules soak in, and slowly start to form strategies for playing. I noticed that more than a couple of times I was able to get close to finishing off the haunts. My goal with each haunt use to be to try to finish the haunt. That way if you finish two you get an extra ball.
However, I was curious if I could let a haunt time out without shooting anything. Iron Maiden doesn't let you time out modes. You have to keep hitting switches for the time to keep counting down.
So, yes... You can time out modes. Even though the big points is in making shots and getting the points to build higher, and each additional haunt afterwards the starting point value builds higher...

Anyway...
I was curious to see what would happen if I completed the haunts. And after a couple of games of trying I got to the end. And most of it isn't programed in yet. Has a very small animation with no sound and then a mb. So can't wait for it to be included int the code.

I don't know what happens after finish that mode. As I got Gappa angry. That's a fun mode to get deep into. Haven't completed it yet. Got to where Gappa is right about to attack the city.
Now, for the sake of people not thinking I'm a good pinball player. My game is setup to reward an extra ball at 20 million, 40 million, 80 million, and then 150 million. I've only ever got over 150 million two times so far. And one of those times I only had one extra ball programmed as a reward at 20 million. Man... That was a great game, and one of my first games on the machine. Anyway. I enjoy putting extra balls as rewards and I think they're based at high enough thresholds to be a challenge to attain.

One last final thought. Some of the callouts while I think lack a bit of oomph or pop, as a whole however I really think this game has excellent callouts. I was plying my father today and the voice of the guy called out "That SUCKS!" when my father drained. I was laughing for about 20 seconds. And my pops actually was chuckling too and not mad about draining. So, I know more callouts are going to be added. And man... This game really is shaping up to be something special.

I've given up on trying to make it. I use to think I was good at skill shots. But, this one I've given up on.

I think the safer play is to short plunge. If you do it right. You can get a safe shot at either the ball lock drop, or the house.
If you do the ball lock and it goes straight down the middle. You'll get the ball back, because you haven't hit enough switches. So... I don't know how many points the skill shot is... But, from the percentage chance of being able to achieve it, verse the reliability of getting free shots to progress the locks and modes...

I think the best play is short plunge. Especially when the later modes points are so much per shot. Get 2x or 4x going during a mb during a later mode and you can really get the points. Then top that off with trailer trash after you finished/completed the mode and boom goes the dynamite.

I like that... How firm does that adhere to the lockdown bar?
I'm interested in that. Might wait and see what other mods for the lockdown bar get made, but that's a good one no doubt.

I got a question...
So most of the haunts I think have 2 videos from Elvira that can play.
But, the Manster has 3. It has something about 2 heads being better than 1. Lets get him out of her before he uses my tweezers, and also who said you can take a bath in my house.

Do any other modes have 3 different intros by Elvira, or is it just 2.
And I have noticed that there are 2-3 different completion videos for modes as well.

So my Turret spins during ball search, but it doesn't move during the game.
Not even during House Party...
Is the turret on the house supposed to move during house party or has that not been coded yet?

So I just noticed something really cool about one of the recent code updates. Its in the Brain that wouldn't Die code.
I always thought the intro video of Spoiler alert "yes you do. Boo creepy doctor?" was just a little bit too random and never made a lot of sense to me... Its like... Yes he does what?!?!? Die?!?!? I never got it...

But, I think they fixed that to where it'll always play with a particular movie clip as the lead in. Because, for the first time I just saw a clip from the movie with the doctor saying to a woman. "do I look like the kind of man that would murder a woman?" And then that Elvira intro played... Man!!!!
Now that clip makes sense and now it is AMAZING.
This code really does get better week by week. Even if the ruleset don't become the greatest ever... This code might just be one of my all time favorites. Just loving all the little details so far. And you know there is so much work left to be put in...

Which leads me to wonder. Are there even more intro videos that they haven't put into the game yet? There might be. As they might have a few more specific ones like the one I described above and the one from The Manster about taking a bath(that always plays with the same lead in video)... So there could be even more videos we haven't seen yet!!!

I hope so!!!!

Well... The biggest different between LE and Prem is the cab art.

So if you don't mind the prem cab side art... Or if your machines are so close to each other you can't see it... Then it doesn't matter so much... THe backglass vs. the translite is really a personal preference(at least I think). Backglass does look a bit better in person when lit up, but the translite might look a bit better when off vs the backglass. I don't like the mirrored effect when off. When on its awesome.

As for fun. This game is fun, and its only going to get better.
I don't know about selling an LE of AFM. AFM is one of my favorite games ever... But, I've never owned one. Played the heck out of it at Galloping Ghost and at Expos, and also the pinball arcade version on PS4. So if you think you've mined most of the fun out of it, then sure... Because, its going to take awhile to mine the full experience and fun out of Elvira.

Already this game has some of the best overall callouts in pinball. I do hope their are better jackpot callouts though. Right now most of the jackpot callouts are a bit lame... But, where the callouts shine is the intro and ending of the modes, and during the modes.

Also the deadhead callouts are pretty fun too. Much better than what was shown on deadflip. I think they need to still work on those. Both their animation and flight path. And for hte love of god a ball save for when the vuk fires.
Its not fair to have the ball drain due to the vuk. Already this game is tough for ball control. Which is by design. The game is a bit diffiult to regain control, but once you have control the shots are fair and they can flow. Which is why it was designed to be a pain to get control.

I like this game a lot. Its fun. I think you will have fun with it.

As for playfield... Mine has a smidge(very little damage) to shooter lane. With the new code that shouldn't lessen. And I'm getting a protector on it. But, my playfield has lots of dimples. More already than my iron maiden which I have owned for over a year. And played the heck out of it too. But, so far no major damage to playfield. Just dimples.

You're right... This game while it has a lot of stop and go to it. Which you want, because you get to see sexy Elvira when it stops. How they handle the stop and go is a bit unique. You hit a ramp, which when as you said stops the ball, but when its not lit it feed to the orbits for a return(which can go by design into the slings), and during the mode start it feeds into the pops, which can go anywhere... Or it can bounce safely to the right orbit and make the safest return to the flippers in the game.

I like this design. Its a mix of going to kick your butt, but I'll give a chance to succeed. Its not trying to bust your balls, but it can.

I still want to wait for the code to mature... As is... Game has some of the best callouts and videos for a pinball machine ever. I also think it balances its ruleset between a modern game and an 90s dmd game...
What I mean by that is. There are 2 ways to get big points in Elvira3. Modes and MB. Of course you want to stack your mode with a mb... And if possible stack a garage mb with the junk in the trunk mb.. .And then try to get the playfield x's going. Which is easy to do during mb.

But, what I do like about the code is. There are points outside of MB and outisde of modes. Not huge, big points. But, more points than most modern games. In sterns SW you can play a ball for like 2-3 minutes not enter a mode and not score really any points, or you can play a 20 second ball but enter a mode and blammo your score exploded... For this game you got Happy Hour, and Drive me Crazy. And you can get if you're accurate a couple million on them. And gargoils and dead head points... Once again... Its best to not focus on these side scoring options, and try to get them while the above mode/mb stack is going on. But, the fact is... The scoring is there is what I like about the rules...

But, there still is so much more the code needs to have done.
As someone posted prior. There is no end to the Manster. I believe I got to the end of the mode. Hit the cellar. And this prompts the final shot or final shot sequences... Yet there were no lights for any shot. Timer had 15 seconds left.. .But, couldnt complete the mode...
That stunk!!!!!

So... You bet I'm going to be reviewing the game. But, I can't... Too many errors with the game. And that would reflect in a lower score. And my review will if done today be a high 8 low 9. But, I am hoping that with completed code the score will be a mid 9...
This game has so much that is amazing. Great use of sound, great variety of callouts(jackpot callouts do suck, but all the regular gameplay ones are AMAZING). I think the layout is really good. Not great. But, really good. Shoots great and is very fun. And the toys... Man... 2 amazing toys. House, Crypt... And you could argue that the hand of fate spinner is a toy... And the gargoyles...

I really think this is one of the better pins of the last 5 years. And I think that is saying something, as Dialed In, Iron Maiden, Stern JP, and... Well as we all know so many cool games. Almost like its 90s golden era all over again... Lets hope it won't crash for a good long time.

Awesome... Now you have both an Elvira pin and Attack of the 50 foot Woman!!! Cos, she is as tall as her house!!! If the house was made of brick... She'd be a BRICK....

Yeah... I'm sorry guys. I'll just slink away.

It is intentional. But, you can get around it by giving the game a bit of a nudge. You might still hit the sling... But, it should be easier to rebound and control even if it does hit the sling.
Game keeps you on your toes that is certain. And I think that is one of the trade offs for the layout of the shots. Not a lot of tough shots in this game. But, keeping control and getting the ball back under control, can be a challenge.

Did some playing again. Before I did though I put my ball trough even lower. I think its at 175 and that seems to be a nice strength for now. Don't know why again that they would set the default as high as they did...
Also, don't know why this isn't a standard line of code in their pinball programs.

I mean... There should be basic code for their machines that they should be able to copy and paste to implement. Ball trough power should have been one of them.

Anyway... Back to the code... I was playing the Manster mode. And I think it does have the final mode completion shot. But, when you shoot it you only get the points for the shot and you do not get credit for completing the mode. Completed it again and big time bummer I didn't get the credit nor do you get trailer trash.

On a positive note. Each time I play this game I am amazed at the callouts.
I never liked the "Phew, that was close" callout... Until I myself happened to say "Phew" right as Elvira said it... And I was like... Okay, I guess it is a fun callout. I also like the "yeah light my fire" callout. Not sure if too many young people will get it... But, it doesn't matter.
I know people said before that this code for the game will be a masterpiece when it is finished.

But, I also think that this game might have some of the best uses of sound/music/callouts when all will be said and done.

Is Elvira on it at all? Or just cemetery and characters from the b movies?

Are we sure Stern will be making a topper for this? Just asking is all. The only thing I know for certain is I want a topper. But, I'm going to be picky I think.

My house broke on the first day I owned it at pretty much the exact place. Not quite the same break... But, same plastic... Same area. Mine was closer to where teh screw was.

Stern replaced the plastic, but I will not ever put it in... Not yet. I'll just keep it with my spare parts for now... So long as I have a plastic in great shape I don't mind that the one in the game is damaged... You can't see it. Not even if you try really, really hard to. So it doesn't impact anything.

So you should be able to get your replacement part.

I thought I might as well share the image of my broken plastic.
I also want to say Stern was very prompt and easy to work with to get the part replaced... And as I said before... No... I will not be replacing it. It will go into the parts group for this machine. And I will only replace if the plastic completely breaks. And if I ever sell the machine I'll include the plastic for it in the sale... But, I have no intention of selling any machine EVER... I want to HOARD them all!!!!!!

Broken Plastic for Elvira (resized).jpg

Just curious... How many of you guys had the right ramps metal protector come loose. It's happened to me 2 times. Not a big deal to get it back on and tighten it. Just curious if anyone has any pointers on keeping that locked down.

Just stinks that I got to stop play and put it back on as I don't want to risk breaking my ramp.

I've given up. I've yet to hit it and I've stopped trying. I actually generally pride myself in hitting skill shots and I do a pretty good job on average... Just this skill shot is not worth it and too hard.

The scared stiff one was hard... But, I've made that a few times on less games... But, the cool thing about scared stiff you can get both the skill shot and a crate hit if you do it just right... I think there is a minor grace period for it... Because, I just aim for the crate on scared stiff and I know I've gotten both off the same plunge.

But, with this game... Not worth it. I plunge softly... Get a nice free shot most of the time to the ball lock drop target... Safest way to take those out.

Ohhhh... that shot....
No... I actually was not aware that it was a skill shot.
I was told it wasn't, earlier in the feed... If it is... I'm going to go for it now.

Thanks for the heads up!!!

Is there a video or callout associated to the shot?

If so, what is it?

It should be Elvira like... Hey, watch it buster... Don't get so fresh...
So always knew you preferred the back door to the front... Which is a bit of a bacall-esque callout.

TRUNK MULTIBALL is no longer allowed to be started during GARAGE
MULTIBALL, and vice versa.

I'm not happy about that change.
I don't think you should be able to stack trunk with garage. But, I do think you should be able to stack garage with trunk. I think that makes the game a bit cooler for strategy.
But, I do like most of these changes.
But, I really thought it was cool that you could stack the mbs... But, I never could stack the trunk with garage if trunk was started first. Didn't work that way. And like I said I don't think it should...
It just means that its easier to take mbs into a mode with you. As you don't have to worry about them stacking. Which I think could make it easier to get to house party mb.

Still, I think they need to fix attick attack mb audio start... That should be an easy fix. Its just lacking audio...

But, I am griping.
This is an amazing list. Super glad its been updated. Going to update first thing when I get home tomorrow. Fun, fun times ahead. I would update tonight. But, Thursdays are my new comic release night. So I have to publish and then advertise my newest comic... But, some things are worth waiting for. Can't wait to update and play this bad mamma jammer.

Okay... So ignore my stupid post above. I'm being stupid...

But, just want to say... Wow, this is only .87 code still...

Look at how they're fixing and adding so much right now and its still only .87.

They do need to add a match, and I do hope its Elvira saying unpleasant dreams and waving goodbye and then the camera zooms out and you get the house shot with its numbers. That is how it should be... And I hope it will be... I'm fine with waiting for that though. But, I mean... Wow... This game keeps growing and growing. can't wait to try the new haunt.

Got to play a few hours of the new code, and I also got to enjoy some of the added content.

First... I have yet to hit either the skill shot or the back door shot. Don't know how... So I give up trying really... Any pointers would be great. But, for the plunge I've hit it so many different ways. I'm thinking my machine must have something a bit off about it.

Now on to my feelings about the changes:
They also changed how playfield validation starts. So I can no longer do my sneaky soft plunge strategy to pick off the drop target lock safely... Bit of a bummer, but I understand why it was fixed. Just means got to find another exploit.

There are a good bit of new callouts peppered in and those are good. I was able to play 2 player against my father and hear some of those.. .Nothing great for the 2 player callouts, but nice that they are there.

Its great to finally be able to complete the manster. I think overall its probably about a middle level to lower high level difficulty to complete. Mainly because of the shear amount of shots you need to complete the mode.

The mode that really feels the most like they shortened it was Teenagers from Outer Space. Otherwise they all seemed mostly about the same amount of shots to complete.
I did notice a glitch in teenagers that I think will get fixed during the next update. Once the lobster monster is triggered. You no longer have to hit and register the right orbit switch to validate the shot. Now you just need to hit the spinner and it then primes the final shot of the mode. This makes teenagers super easy and by far the easiest mode to complete in the game. So I'm not certain if that will remain or if they will fix... But, I like that you just need the spinner... Makes it easier. and I'm all for that.

I finally got to Santa Claus vs the martians. Really like the singing intro video by Elvira. Thought it was a nice change of pace and a good one. And I only got to the mode 3 times so far and two of the times I drained out basically right away. But, I did complete it one of the times. And I really enjoyed the completion video. So far I think Santa Claus might be the most unique modes of the game.. .So far...

And lastly I have to walk back my comments on being bummed out that you can't stack multiballs anymore.
While you can't get the super huge points from all the balls on the playfield and the 4x and all the stuff going on that could be stacked... I think this change makes the game more fun. You have more control and it isn't as much of just lucky bounces. You really get the feel for how different the MBs are now and so for shear fun factor it makes the game so much better. And again it can help you reach house party quicker if you space out your MBs across the modes.

And I also of course like the extra ball with the deadheads... Provided the deadhead vuk doesn't just drain your ball for you.. .Which it does about 1/5 of the time for me. I think they need a ball saver for when it launches. I shouldn't get penalized for making that shot only for it to get launched directly into the left outlane.

That's it for now... I do have some comments about the modes in general that I'd love to talk and discuss strategies with you all about. But, I'll save those for another post. Fun, fun, game.

My playfield is dimpled to all hell.
My only hope is they'll all dimple so much so it'll become level again.

I might lower the vuk... But, it seems lately its 2/3 of the vuk shots lead to draining. And really not from my mistake. It either dribbles straight to the tthe left outlane... Not a bullet shot, but a dribble that is still powerful enough to where you can't nudge it to save it.
Or I get a bullet shot and it hits the rubber in a weird way on the left side and it bounces straight into the right outlane. THis might be savable... If I nudge just at the right time. But, its hard to get the feel for when you need to start shaking, and because the vuk is so inconsistent in its behavior you risk doing the wrong shake...

I like the vuk... But, I think there needs to be a ball save timer that goes with it.

I've done that... I've had the ball stay at the top of the house for a few seconds then it rolls slowly down to the left orbit.
But, I haven't tried since the latest code update... I'll give it a try... Hope the skill shot is worth it.

Just imagine how big of a wow factor when the code gets to 1.0!!!!

I'm too lazy for playfield protectors... but, with how quick and how many dimples are on my Elvira, I might consider one for the next NIB pin I purchase. With that said though I am pretty good at waxing my pins.
I have to wax my Monster Bash before I can play it again. And I'll probably wax Iron Maiden and Elvira next week as well, just because of the sheer volume I've been playing both lately.

I also plan on keeping all my pins till I die. So I'd like them to be in good condition. I know they won't stay in pristine because of the use. That is a trade off. Keep it pristine or play it... I rather play my pins, but still as I said keep they in good condition. That is a fair trade off I believe. The normal wear and tear of time and play, verses no play and staying immaculate. These are toys and meant to be played.

Only its even better than any christmas I've ever had!!!!!!

That's what she said!

Is there a good image of the topper posted yet? And if not... Is Elvira on the topper or is it just the Gargoyles and just crypt... If that's their topper I'll be looking elsewhere for mine. I might buy a Party Monsters topper and use that in the short term. And in the long term just make my own topper then. I want a nice pinup type image of elvira. Something a bit cheesecakey, but also campy and fun.

Thanks... Not a bad topper. Just not what I want in a topper. Very nice image of Elvira and festive too!
Would give you more thumbs up... But, they I can only give you one!
Thanks for the post. I'll start my plan to design the ultimate topper shortly.

Does anyone know what HSTD stands for. Can't figure it out. Just curious is all... I think I'm going to update and wax my game today. Good time to wax it while I wait for the file to download and then wait for it to actually update.

It is very similar. But, the toys and the code should make them very unique to play. Also, the idea of the projection is really cool. But, I'll doubt I'll ever own a stranger things. Not a big fan of kids in my movies or tv shows. My loss I know. I do like short round and goonies.But, those are the exceptions.

Back to pinball...
While on the surface MM and EHOH look very similar. They play completely different. Not just in terms of strategy but the main difference is how the balls return to hte flipper.

In MM you can shoot the castle/moat area and the ball will kick out and it will go safely back to the left flipper. In Elvira the ball has a tendency to hit the left sling. Which can result in it being juggled by the slings and result in side to side which can lead to draining... This is really the greatest danger in EHOH is the slings and the side to side.
While the safe return in MM makes going for the castle a bit safer... Key is safer, as you'll always get a few dangerous returns and SdTM. One thing I like to go for is once I get to castle 3-ish I like to take in a mb to help me destroy it. There is no such strat with Elvira.
Elvira is mode based game and MM doesn't have any modes(video mode doesn't count... Not counting MB's or wizard modes as standard modes)

Then there is the ball lock. The ball lock on MM while perhaps being a bit harder to hit, as its not only a tight shot, but you also need to clear the moat, is a far safer shot than the garage ball lock for EHOH.
That drop target has a tendency to send your ball SDTM. In fact. I prefer to aim for it during ball save time. Or with my left flipper backhand. Its a safer shot via backhand. But, a little more difficult then with the right flipper. But, again the right flipper the rebound is just too dangerous to risk. So the lock in MM is far safer. Less risk. Because if you brick, it'll go into the moat for a safe kick out.

Mode start on EHOH is also dangerous. The ball gets fed into the pops and that can lead to numerous places your ball can drain. So while I'm not hte best pinball player or even the most knowledgeable one. I think it's easier to get control of the ball in MM than EHOH. But, on the other side. I think once you have control in EHOH it shots and flows better than MM. Because, in MM there are shots that it wants to kill you. Trolls, the gate, and then the super steep ramps that if you fail to make it up can lead to drains.With EHOH, when you're in a mode and so long as you keep hitting the shots, you should be fine.

So while yeah... Both MM and EHOH have a big toy in a similar location. They both function different and enough changes in the layouts to make them play and respond different.

I really love MM and I hope to have one someday in my collection.And I don't think they're too similar as to me they play different.

I haven't played it in about a month.
Haven't updated it yet. I want to wax it before i update to the newest.
I work a 9-5 job and I own my business. So I've been very busy and haven't had time for fun. Well... A little time for fun, but no pinball. I hope it'll even out. Its not that noticeable in certain light. But, if the glare is just right you can see the spots.
The thing that irratated me the most was the plunger lane. That minor damage I got could have been avoided if they would have had the proper settings in the code to begin with... Very minor... But, could have been avoided. And should have been...

Let's be honest... Stern is using the same system. So they should have default copy and paste code that they use with their machines. I'm not against this. no one should be against that. So really stuff like ball trough power and adjustment options should be copy and pasted between games.
Yes, there is more to coding than that. But, for the most part they can reuse old code like how I wrote above. Just a bit lazy to be honest. Don't want to harp on stern. As I am a fan of theirs. Big fan. But, they could do a few things better. And that's not asking too much.

When I start playing it again I'll let you know how it goes.
To be clear... All games should and will get unique coding. I'm just talking about the default code for stuff like ball trough. Flipper strength(for standard 2 flipper games) sound adjustment... That kind of stuff can be reused for the most part. The stuff that can't be of course is unique. But, with them rushing stuff out super quick, they should strive better to get their ducks in a row. Because, this led to damage on the machines. My damage is very minor... Some machines were damaged much worse, because of this easily avoided error.

Sadly... No... There is a growing puritan movement in this country where people think there is something wrong with human bodies. Looks are not everything. And even Elvira doesn't look like Elvira... There is a lot of diffusion going on in regards to how they lit her. They did a great job by the way. But, again... Its not real its fantasy.
I'm okay with that. But, a lot of people think its gross and morally wrong to appreciate the beauty in the human form. That to show a bit of leg, or bosom is something horrible. Scares me really... And hopefully it'll go away. But, not anytime soon.

Neither do I. Care about the lighting. I think she looks great, and I think the clips turned out amazing. I was making a point about fantasy and reality. She looks great in person. But, nothing like Elvira. Of course in teh pin and the videos she looks great, sounds great, and is great. One of my favorite jokes is the teenagers line... I wasn't insulting her. I'm amazed that her figure really hasn't changed in like 40 years! That's amazing as I know how mine changes month to month.

Cary Grant also said the same thing about Cary Grant. When he got older and people said to him, but you don't look like Cary Grant... And he'd say "My dear no one does". Also a bit of an inside joke with him. Because, of course Cary Grant was a stage name... But, still you have the fantasy of Cary Grant and the reality. Good actor by the way.

And I think a lot of people didn't quite understand the point I was making...
Yes, our country isn't the worst out there. But, the push for inclusion means people get made at Victoria's Secret for hiring attractive women to model their wares... Because, well... Beauty standards and you want to showcase your wares in the most attractive manner possible. Now to be clear... I don't like VS models. But most men do.

You have actresses who've made a career over sexualizing themselves, now complaining about how they made their fortunes.
And I really think even with Elvira they toned down a bit of boob jokes, and innuendo. It's there... It's there... But, they played it safe... And let's be honest... Compare comedy, movies, modeling, to the 70s and 80s... Everything is tamer by today's standards. Todd Philips director of the Joker is a bit afraid to do comedy now... And while on instagram everyone is showing off their butts... To actually market stuff based on sex appeal... Its down... Quite a bit from where it has traditionally been in the past.

I've been saying that basically since day one.
They put one on for Gene's head... So we should get one for this one.

I wanted to go for the dead heads and so I made that my goal.
Plunge. Got control, two hits and I got the deadhead. It kicked out of the vuk... Drained...
Pissed me off... Restarted the game... Same thing... Drained...
One more time, restarted the game...
Got control made the two shots right away... And it kicked out and drained...
All within about 1-2 minutes.
Three drains from the vuk. I restarted a 4th time. And finally got better luck. Its too inconsistent to try to predict and get control. It punishes you for trying to advance a feature.

In the game. Sometimes I wait to have the hand of fate lit. So basically if I vanquish the dead head. I have the out lane saves. And too often it goes down those outlanes. And so basically it steals my ball saves.
Shouldn't be that way. And here's my thing... Maybe only make the ball save work if its out an outlane. Don't save it if it goes down the middle. Because, that probably is savable. But, too often I get it to the left outlane on a direct shot, or a wicked bounce that goes to the left. It really cheeses me off. Probably the one thing I HATE about this game.

It looks great, and plays great. I like the rules. Simple rules. Not deep. But, you know what that's all you need. I don't need long ball times, or super deep code. Nothing wrong with either of those things, but if a game shoots good, and has good code. Then I can still have a lot of fun with it.
And I really think the code for Party Monsters is well done.
Also, I think Party Monsters while limited in its callouts have some really amazing ones. The nice organ start on MB is one of my all time favorite mb callouts. I love that its included in the house party wizard mode in EHOH, but i think its a bit better in the original(but super great to be able to see the mistress of the dark in the new game).
Right now I only own EHOH. But, I would love to own the other two one day.

So I just played the heck out of the newest update. Really liking the code so far, but I don't want to talk about the code or strats in this post.
Rather I was just thinking about how we're still a good ways away from 1.0 and what do you guys think we might be seeing in the coming updates?

So we know there are a lot of movies that were advertised to be in the game that have yet to be in the game.
The most glaring example currently I think is the Wasp Woman movie, mainly because she's on the backglass of the game. It took St. Nick awhile to get into the game, but he's one of my favorite modes. The movie might stink, but man I really dig those clips, and that retro robot!!! Also, I like santa confusing Nixon with a reindeer.
I really want to know how The Satanic Rights of Dracula will be used as I'm a huge Cushing/Lee fan. That movie while not the best is always entertaining(I've seen it like 6-7 times).
We do know there is a hurryup target that needs to be worked in, and also we do know that they haven't finished the house completion wizard mode yet, nor have they coded the crypt cleaner yet, nor directors cut.
The one thing that is coming along nicely I think is the Dead Heads. I would like their behavior to be modified slightly. I think they need to do an attract mode type thing to where if you ignorre them for awhile they are like... Hey buddy I'm still here! Or something along those lines.
But, its nice to finally have a proper selection of them. I forget how many they claimed there will be. But, at least now I don't always get Aunt Surly.
Not a big fan of Denis Leary Dead Head though. But, some of his callouts are funny.
I think my favorite is Uncle Bonehead and Mummy Dearest(callouts of the mummy are the best!).

Those modes sound really cool. 15 deadheads is a lot... And I do hope they also tweak some of their animations and pathing and even behavior. They're fine right now, but I think a little more fine tuning and they could really pop.

I like how Make-out Mayhem sounds... Scream Test could be fun... And run for your life could be cool...
I take it the atomic raygun probably will be something like if you press it, it credits you the most important shot currently available. Like a smart missile. That could be cool... Or maybe its like a big bang and it'll complete a mode for you... That be awesome and really change the games strats. As then you'll really be shooting for the Junk in the Trunk targets.

Yes, I meant Grandpa.
And Jar Heads are funny. I've laughed a few times at what he says... In fact I've laughed at a lot of the things the dead heads have said. And I just think its funny that you can't hear or understand the mummy. To me its just silly and fun.
I agree with you about their animations. I think maybe the closer to being vanquished the more they should start to panic and fly around erratically. Maybe if you stop hitting them for awhile, they settle down again. but, thats how I would program it. Gives them a little bit different behavior, but something that shouldnt be impossible to code. I mean, the faster you hit them, the more angry they get... But, if you only whack them occasionally, or if you then ignore them after they went into a frenzy... They slowly start to calm down... Sure more lines would have to be added to make this work... But, wouldn't be impossible.

And yes. Its kind of fun updating this game. I think I sat out the last 2 updates. But, otherwise I had my game with the 2nd code update till now. And its kind of fun seeing it progress... But, it'll also be great when all the bugs(or most) are gone.
Right now no audio for attic attack multiball. And that's a big bummer... Should be a simple code fix... And just a lot of the mini wizard modes are not there as well.
So I do look forward to 1.0... And possibly like a 1.03... And then the updates will really come to a crawl and eventually stop... But, that's not for a long time. And its going to be fun to get there.

As of right now MMr while maybe not the deepest game. Certainly is the more polished of the two. It's going to take 6 months to a year to get Elvira finished up, if not longer.

I've never destroyed all the castles, and gotten all the madness modes to get the ultimate wizard mode in MM. Maybe if I owned it, sure it wouldn't take me too long. I don't want to say MM is shallow as you got peasants, catapult, joust, princess, and trolls to complete on top of the castles you need to destroy. And I think you probably need to get a super jack pot to get to the final wizard mode in the game... I don't know. I can't remember if that is in the rules or not, I know its in the rules from Attack from Mars and the two games codes are similar. Maybe you don't need the super jackpot.
Regardless, I really like the mb rules for MM.

So, I don't know which you would enjoy more. All I know is that I own an Elvira. I am enjoying it so much right now. but, for people who want a complete game. This game is not complete. The depth of it at its current state is probably comparable to MM, as you have 7 main game modes. Drive me crazy, unhappy hour, gargoyles gone wild. 3 mbs(no audio or really code on the last one). Junk in the trunk mb. Gappa wizard mode. House party, and the final wizard mode is just an uncoded mb right now. So there is a good amount to do... But, bugs. And once its completed a whole heck of a lot to do... Oh and deadheads to bash and vanquish. but no mode or reward besides extra ball currently for ghostbusting them. Or deadheadbusting them?!?!?
And one day I really do want to own an MMr.
I personally went with the Hostest with the mostest because I like her brand of humor and camp, and she has two big assests that MMr doesn't have.

So I decided to buy myself a new printer. Not a horribly expensive one, but reasonably so. I didn't get a huge plotter printer(maybe one day when I have more space), but I bought myself a model that can print 13x19 sized pages, and has 6 colors. Tested it and the print quality is really nice.
Maybe not the greatest ever. But, its nice enough for printing out mini posters and framing them to go on my wall.
I got tired of going to a print store to make custom prints. Mostly tired of the weird looks when they see all the frazetta's, blake, and other custom images I had printed out. Again. I don't re-sell this stuff. Its for my own walls, and also I got it to print out my own comic covers from my comic business. Never printed any of those out before, and its going to be so cool having my favorites up on the wall. And a side benefit will be, I can make actual prints of my comics if I so desire.

Anyway... So with that whole chunk of text as the intro. The main reason I posted about it in this thread. I think its time for me to make custom rule cards for Elvira. I don't believe any have been made.
So now the main decision will be... Do I photoshop her images and just use real life photos of the Mistress, or do I use those as a layout and then pay one of my artists to draw what I made. The artists art style will not match Greg's art style. Just no way. But, with it being still colored art, it might in a way fit the theme of pinball better...
What are your guys thoughts? Just curious... Also,if you have any cool ideas of what would look good for the cards let me know. I don't know if I will do a left rules sheet. It might only be the right card. Lots of rules in this game, and so whatever art would mostly be covered up, and so I think the current rules card is just fine.
And once again having my own printer. Means no shame in explaining to the person at the print shop what the custom card is for.

It is now completable. But, I too think I completed the mode one time in a recent game and never got the credit for it... Now I did run right out of time right when I made the last shot. But, it should have fallen within the grace period as the timer just hit 0. So I think there could still be some weird bugs in the Manster code that could stop you from completing it.
But, mostly its yes. You can complete it now. As I've done so as well. My favorite mode to complete I think is Manos and Werewolf of Washington as I think those might be the hardest two to complete. I think I've only completed manos about 3-4 times and the werewolf maybe 6 times. Just wonder if there is a good way to complete werewolf.

Simple!!!!

Seriously congrats on your fix. I don't think I will be doing that fix. Too complicated, and I don't have the blow torch. But, really clever thinking. Nicely done!

Alright guys. Here is my custom Apron card.
I didn't make a rules card. Because quite frankly there are so many rules for this game. I think the default rules card is just fine.

If it was a simpler game sure. But, too much text.

I did anger my artist who I am getting to do a drawn version of this card. But, she will draw this for me later today or tomorrow when she forgives me... Anyway... This is really basic. But, I think basic is good.
And so there probably will be two versions of this card. A drawn version and this version.
I think its good. Was thinking about maybe a deadhead or two in the background behind her head. But, I got no good reference images for those. And besides. Its a small card. So simple is best.
Hope you guys enjoy it. And if anyone does use it. Just snap a pic and let me see how it looks. Measurements should be good.

Edit... I edited the image and reuploaded it. I didn't like that the text. It was a bit rough and so I smoothed the edges of it out a good bit. Looks better now... Probably would have printed fine for most people. But, should print and look just a smidge better.

elvira card copy redo (resized).png

Alright... I wasn't too happy with that last one.
I made another tweak to it. I added a border and I fixed the text again. Its more vibrant and just pops better now.

I did think about adding some text to denote 3 ball play or free play...
I thought about calling free play "Scream Play".
But, then again... No... Didn't like how it looked.
I'm not a graphic designer. I'm rubbish at fonts and stuff like that. I write and make layouts, and so graphic design is not my forte.

But, this is looking nice.
Also, the other version should be done soon. The artist is talking to me again. YEA!!!!!! She gets upset at me sometimes and is like. I'm outta here! But, she's back now.
elvira card border (resized).png

I've yet to complete gappa. I've gotten really, really far into it. But, always drain out at the same few shots.
One day....

But, to the thing about some of the incomplete code and bugs.
There is no audio for the intro to the last garage mb. The attic one. That shouldn't be too hard of a fix. Bang it out, fix it, and it'll be super cool.
Yes, the journey for this code is amazing. But, there is still mostly barebones when you think of all the stuff they claim it will have. Phone a friend... The other items. The only item that works right now is the skeleton key. Which I love. As I love getting santa conquers mars!

Just really wish there will be an update soon is all. I'm grumping. And I really just can't wait for the next update.

My garage alignment kind of stunk when I first starter playing. But, it luckily sorted itself out and has been super reliable for me lately.
But, it does act up a few times here and there. But, I gently pat the cab up near where the garage is. And that has been super effective to get the ball lock to register for me lately.

So I am happy about that. As that was one of my bigger issues.
Now. Give me ball save timer out of the vuk!

Sten's JP got a few of my votes. But, most went to Elvira for me. I'll tell you why. The backglass for Elvira is one of the best backglasses ever. True I'm not 100% jazzed on how they drew the mistress on the backglass, but the rest of it. The energy and framing of the image. How it incorporates all the important elements from the game into the backglass and the game is jammed pack. It took a lot of skill. Even the gargoyles that flying are in the backglass.

And I had to vote for Elvira's custom videos. As those are just to this date the most impressive feature ever in a pinball to date. Really makes it seem like we're watching her show.

But, I do think JP has better rules. As those rules are just amazing. Elivra's rules are not there yet. Maybe one day. But, the one thing I like about JP is the rules are deep, but simple, and easy to learn, and make sense. Just amazing rules.

I think best toy was a category. And I can't remember how I voted. Three amazing options for this year. Black Knight Toy, Elvira's House, and the T-rex head. I probably voted t-rex head, as I think that is the most amazing toy ever.
But, you really couldn't go wrong with either of those three. I mean any other year... Those could have been winners... But, also since Elvira's house isn't fully coded into the game yet... It doesn't spin for house party mode... So.. that is a bit of detraction.

Really, how much does it cost.
I don't mind waiting. But, I'd like to get on the wait list or order it and wait... Never heard of that kit, and tired of never making that shot...
I'll try to level my game... But, I checked and its pretty dang level... But, Carpet... And it can shift.

I don't think they're close to done coding that yet.
It goes dead after the ball ends even if its not used. During the mb ball save it gets used up. And I would think or hope that the reward for a vanquish will eventually carry over after the ball ends.

No reason for it to disappear, you worked hard for it, should be punished by a SDTM. Also the same thing is true for hand of fate. I don't think a ball end should wipe these rewards out. Keep them lit until claimed. It makes hand of fate a bit harder to claim.

At least that's how I would prefer it. Or maybe for tournament players or directors put it in the settings for them to change or alter if a ball drain kills them.
That would be fair.

Well... Learn something new every day. Thanks for the info...

Now, my question is as follows: If I do change the settings for them to carry over, does that make me a crappy player, or a horrible person, or both? I can live with being a horrible person, but I am trying to become a good pinball player.

Side note, trying to be a good person has been abandoned long, long time ago.

I set my replay's to extra balls as well, and I generally use all the levels of them. But, I like to stack them progressively higher. That way its a challenge to get them. The first one I like to set at what I consider the mark for a good game, and then I generally like to double it for the next reward, and then perhaps 1.5x and so on.
From time to time I will remove all the tiers except the first one and just try to see how good I can do for a day or two.

Okay... I had one of my artists draw the Mistress of the night. And this is my current apron card...

But, I think I might have her tweak the mistress again. No eyeliner. I think she misunderstood what I meant. Anyway. Still really nice, and I think it fits.

As I just hate reusing assets from other areas in the apron cards. I like original assets. Gives my eyes more to take in.
Feel free to use these.
And again if you do. Take a picture.

EDIT.
I changed out the image with one that I just edited. Its better now.

elvira card d copy (resized).jpg

She's winking and trust me we went back and forth for 40 minutes to get the eyes right.

But, I think the mouth might need to curl a bit more up as well...
But, she did a really nice job matching the backglass color scheme I think. Will it be perfect no... But, this is an apron card.
And its custom art for a custom apron card. Free for use.
Free for you guys, I had to pay.

Okay... So I was a bit tired and cranky. But, you were right. Sometimes when you work on a project you can't see the forest for all the trees. Was a simple fix, but I think it makes the expression pop more now.
I'm very pleased with it. and I hope you all enjoy it.

Wow... Don't take this the wrong way guys.

But, I thought the image is cool.
It COST ME MONEY.
I shared for free.
It took time to make. And I get insults.
So maybe I won't share anymore in the future.
Because, I don't know how much art anyone here has made.
I've made over 150 comics. Yes, winking can be hard to sell and make look natural. This is a good image. Thank you so much for insulting my artist. She did her best, and I was proud of her and happy to share it with you all.
Just not cool your responses.

But, instead of just pouting and taking my football home.
I'll go back and I'll tweak it with her.
And no that is not some dirty euphemism. So... Stay tuned. Update in a few days. Cos why stop now. Gotta try to make it perfect. And I think she was too focused at first on making it 100% realistic and I had to tell her about Robert Crumbs belief when drawing from real people. Take their most distinguished traits and slightly embellish for the art, and it makes the portraits pop a bit better. And she was worried about line for line. Which doesn't translate best. Because so much is lost in the lines.

Yes, I know how winking works.

Also... We used one of those images already.

Listen. No offense to anyone. And I know I'll be down voted. But, everyone is a critic.
And while I'm not a illustrator. I do dabble. She is an artist and has drawn for more hours than most people here.
That's her pinball.
So all I will say is. Its easy to criticize harder to create.

As I said before. I'll go back to the drawing board.
But, Robert... You mean well. But, your post is belittling.

Okay... So Eyegate or blinkgate.

Listen guys. My blood pressure ever since I've been in my 20s has been high and now I'm in my 30s its insanely high.
Not due to diet, or lack of exercise. Its because of how chronically pissed off I always am.
Lately, I hate my 9-5 job. If all goes well I should be able to quit in about 1.5 years... But, that's still a long time for doing something you hate.

So I tend to take umbrage easy. I was chatting with my artist.
And she told me to stop being a karen. She tells me that all the time.
And also to tip toe through the tulips with her... ... ... That one might be a euphemism. And yes... I never said eye was perfect. I said I'll go back to the drawing board.... Which is actually literally correct in this case. But, there is a process to art guys. It doesn't just happen. And she really nailed most of the image. Yes, it stinks that one little mistake can stick out like a sore thumb.
So I'll fix it.
Sorry for flying off the handle. But, again I've made a lot of money in art. Dedicated my whole life to it. So I can be a butt baby about such things.

Its all good. I never say I can't take the piss out of myself. I might chronically be pissed off all the time, but I do have a sense of humor.

Well... I think CGC will be remaking the remakes for awhile. So if you want a NIB Elvira 3, you should buy now.

I mean AFM is one of my favorite all time games. Right now, I'd say its a better game than Elvira. But, Elvira has the most sex appeal ever in a pinball machine, and that is a big factor for me. I love pinup art and cheesecake. Big, big fan of that. And I love monsters. And I do love Elvira.
But, right now. AFM is the better game. I think when the code is finished. Elvira 3 will be truly something amazing. I don't think it'll be fair to compare it to AFM as it has a quarter of a century of improvement on it. But, out of modern games Elvira 3 will be probably be a top 5 game made in the last 15-20 years.

I did mention this a few pages back. But, I actually think Stern's JP the best game in like the last 5 years. I love Iron Maiden and its a dream theme for me. But, I think with layout, rules, and the best damn toy in pinball to date its JP. Just an amazing game. And mind you I think Iron Maiden is a special and amazing game(and of course Elvira as well), but there is just something amazing about JP.

With that being said. I don't like the theme. I love dinos sure. But, those movies bore me. Not enough carnage or mayhem. I would prefer something like Dinosaurs Attack(the old trading card series). And not only does the theme do nothing, but also the art package looks good. Maybe very good. But, I don't want that in my home. If I was buying for an arcade, I'd get JP prem. But, for my home something I look at more than I'd play. Gotta go with the Mistress of the Dark.

I think there might be some big surprises left in Elvira's code. More surprises in Elvira than I think JP. With that said JP was a homerun right from the start.

So many features of ELvira have yet to be implemented. We only got the skeleton key so far. What does the ray gun do, what is the beaker. Phone a friend(its a mb but how???).

Also. Only a very small percentage of the movies they claimed have been used so far. Like 15-20 more need to be implemented.
How will they do so?

Lastly. I don't have any hard facts its just speculation. I don't think we've heard all of the callouts for Elvira and I don't think we've seen all the videos. I think there are more coming. Not just the wizard modes. I think there might be some of the core game modes videos that have yet to be added in. Just a feeling. I could be wrong. And I might be.