I agree with the OPs assessments. IM is a great game all around but I think the ball times are too long and (for me) I suspect it will make the game feel like a grind in the long run. Perhaps too much time in multi-ball? Even with the outlanes wide open it just seems difficult to not have at least one massive scoring ball during a game.

ACNC seems like you hit a lot of posts which gives a clunkier feel and (for me) less fun to play. I think it would get old in a collection quickly.

Houdini is a great game - sure some of the shots are a little tight but I think that will make it last longer in a home environment. The layout, artwork, animations all seem very well integrated If you like the magic theme then this is a killer game to own. I am just waiting until the supply and demand levels out (hopefully enough time to figure out what to sell).

Good luck with the pin-choice. Hey wait a minute - don't you have a bedroom to paint and baby furniture to put together? Your going to get busy quickly and won't have time for long games anymore (so don't get IMDN - therefore Houdini will more likely fit your future lifestyle).