Does the majority of Pinsiders really believe that MM and MB are top five games? I think they're great games like we all do, but to rank them top ten seems to ignore and dismiss more recent titles which offer so much more. If the grading rubric truly is based on simplicity and addictiveness at the expense of long term lastability, code, modern art, modern sound packages, and game design principles which are based on the historical success of older games like bally williams titles from the 90s, then I guess most 90s games would be the obvious top ten choice.
Can't we all admit that modern releases are far more immersive, complex, and sometimes more unique (fewer fan layouts than 90s games) than older titles? I'm not sure it is reasonable to argue that 90s titles are better than modern games in that regard; they were produced to earn money on location by establishing quick, simple satisfaction in the player by rewarding simpler accomplishments. Those old titles did not need to be complex, deep, or lastable in a home collection. Modern games, however, are produced with a different approach, which emphasizes significantly more complexity, advanced sound and art, and far more appeal to home collectors for several reasons. There are more demographics to appeal to now, and that's resulted in far more consideration for lastability in a home collection. Modern games still kick butt on location, mostly based on appealing themes and plenty of quick rewards/hooks for the location player, but they far exceed older titles when it comes to lastability and advanced playfield designs which are favored by collectors.
The games have changed, mostly for the better. We should agree that there is far more to enjoy in modern games, strictly as to complexity and inclusive game experience when compared to 90s titles. older games feel dated by comparison, and very shallow. They're still great titles, don't get me wrong, but they are a sparse offering of pinball experience compared to newer releases. Evolution results in improvement, to our benefit. nobody is dogging older titles, but it seems obvious that they are/were seriously limited in what they offer due to market conditions and technology.
just my two cents