Free Play Dallas is the newest location of five in the D/FW Metroplex. (Ft. Worth, Arlington, Denton, Richardson, Dallas) They have a huge selection of games that they rotate between the locations. They also have monthly pinball tournaments and weekly leagues at each location. Food and beverage is great as well. If you want to talk about getting your money's worth, one entry fee will get you into all locations the same day (with receipt and wrist band, of course). That's a bit of driving to hit all, but I have visited two in one day. Totally worth checking out if you're in the area. (Also, Cidercade Dallas and Ft. Worth.)

Welcome to the pinball world! Check the Pinside Pinball Map link at the top of the page for other locations near you and if something is missing or out of date, you can add it or update the lineup and add your review.

Definitely checking out local freeplay museums and other locations is the way to try them all before you buy them and pick something the family enjoys and there are no surprises. (TMNT is pretty challenging and not normally recommended for a first pin.)

I recommend getting something fairly new that has been HUO (home use only) or something (NIB) new in box. That way it has not had a lot of abuse and wear, and should work reliably for you and there will be less dealing with repairs. Condition also affects the value of the pin so something in perfect condition will be easy to resell. There are resources online to see what prices to expect and info for purchasers such as condition issues to look for.

Depending on your budget you might be looking for something in so-so condition to save money. Make sure to test it before you buy and confirm it is working correctly or pass until something better comes along. ("Players condition" means it has cosmetic issues such as playfield wear, and cabinet dents but should work and play correctly, but often sellers try pass off pins that need repairs as players condition, so pass on those.)

Stern is the big dog with ~80% of the market so I steer first time buyers toward them for various reason, but SOME of the other manufacturers offer fun reliable pins as well.

Corey Hyden is one of the best in the business. His commitment to game originality, quality control, food/drink quality, and servicing his game floor are unparalleled. He has my business for life.

If you're still in town Monday night, Free Play Arlington's monthly tournament is Monday night 7pm. Tournament is free. Just pay for entry. Everyone is welcome.