I think with how fast they are producing Hobbits so far, that sometime in Spring/Summer of 2017 is very doable.

Anyone calling the Hobbit a snooze probably hasn't put enough time in the game to fully understand the rules and different ways to play the game. I've played close to 500 games on mine and am still learning all of the ins and outs of the game. There are many pinball machines where you can shoot one shot a certain number of times to start a multiball or modes. In the Hobbit, you have to shoot every shot in the game to progress towards multiballs, completing modes, and getting to mini wizard modes.

If you're a player who flails away or doesn't ever stop the ball, this game will consistently kick your butt. Then excuses are made like there is nothing to shoot for, the flippers are too weak, and there are too many half ramp rejects. However, if you play under controlled, the shots are easier to hit and the game comes together quite nicely.

I'm not saying it took me 500 games to learn the rules. The rules are actually quite easy and the display tells you everything you need to know. But it has taken me time to figure out exactly what I want to stack. When you have 31 modes, it is hard to initially know where each mode is located on the hexagon. Certain modes stack well with multiballs, while others are great for single ball play. Being able to change mode via the left ramp helps me choose certain modes and specific points in the game.

To each their own I want to be ready to get to the final wizard mode when new code is released. Plus I'll know it for tournament play in case certain scenarios come up with I need X number of points. In a home environment, I would much rather have a one hour game than a 5-10 minute game. I will say though with the current state of this game, it isn't great for location play. So I can understand where the negative criticism might be coming from.

I assume you have the seven GOT modes memorized by now. That was like passing first grade. Maybe took 5 games to figure out what to stack. With 31 modes, it takes some more time to A) play them all and B) execute the shots while playing the modes. So it has sunk in quite nicely, but has just taken a little bit more time.

Honestly, I think this is a game where the difference in home environment vs. location environment is huge. Simple as that.

I do as well, just don't make many tournaments. And my experience with location vs. home environment is much different than yours I guess. Seems like anywhere I try going, the games just don't play as well. WOZ and Hobbit were probably the biggest difference I noticed.