Quoted from NPO:

Gone are the prevalent tinkering and engineering days.
Now, it is all about how deep your pockets are and how many zeros you can put on your check.

Quoted from sunnRAT:

In recent years folks have been convincing themselves (and each other!) that only the latest and greatest Limited run pins with A+ commerical themes and lots of mods are the only ones that matter, and in turn the hobby is seeing a number of quick flip attempts and high price bidding wars talking advantage of this idea.
As a result, it's leading to frustration, anger, maybe jealousy, or just the feeling of being left out.
Left out because you are a true fan and didn't get to own it, or because you couldn't be the one to make a precious dollar.
And meanwhile, NO ONE has even played it yet. Hype is some powerful shit.
I think it's obvious that for a large number of new folks coming into the hobby, they truly believe the factors above are the only way to enjoy pinball, because it's an all too familiar marketing ploy found in society. We've seen it everywhere else for years. Everything from cars to candy. Latest and greatest. Be the first. People are convinced and spend.
I'm not here to argue what others like or what you should buy. To each their own. But to those who feel constantly burned or left out...at what point do you realize the way others are doing things isn't something worth putting up with? Can you stick up for yourself and walk away from the greed fest?
"On these older pins there are no other options"
On these older pins, there are PLENTY of options. This is still a great hobby if you want it to be. And it doesn't have to cost a lot of money.
I look forward to playing Mando on location and wish for those who truly want to own this game the best of luck.