Welcome to the club!! If you have an idea theme wise, check them out on youtube for gameplay.

Or if you know others with varying games you can physically play.

Physically playing the game is everything. Were/are there any games you've already played & liked that you may have your eye on? It really makes a difference. Also, pinball emulators such as The Pinball Arcade are ok to get an idea, but the do NOT play like a real game. Keep that in mind.

If you live anywhere near where pinball expos are held, that way be an option as well.

also, since you are brand new, also keep in mind that certain games are way more complex than others, and thus create more (expensive) maintenance .

Do a search here on Pinside, there have been quite a few other posts on this topic.

Get the 2k Baywatch in St Louis.

Disclaimer: I have no children and don't know what good parenting is/is not. This may fall in the latter category.

Actually a great choice. Lots of pinball there for $2000. I just sold a police force for $1500 that would have been good. Look at system 11's as there are some good family fun themes and many can be had for under $2000

Welcome! I always enjoy 1st time posters excited about jumping into the hobby, as opposed to scammers asking 2x the market price of their beater game.

My first game actually was Data East Simpsons. With kids it’s a huge hit. Also it has a very simple ruleset that is difficult to master.

Having said that, it gets old... quick! DE Simpsons is a short ball time game with not a lot to explore. I thought the Simpsons money was going to be all the pinball money I’d need to spend to be content. I found myself spending an equal amount more to buy Stern HRC which many pan here but I loved as it had so much going on, offered much longer games, and complemented Simpsons very nicely. You may find yourself in a similar position in 6 months if you start off with a shallow game... but that’s not a bad thing. Like Stuart Scott always told me growing up “if some is good, more is better”.

Go play whatever games you’re interested in. Do not buy one sight unseen. It would help if you had any family/friends in the pinball hobby to go with you and help you make a more informed decision. Don’t let anyone take advantage of you for being a new to the hobby

I've played a Baywatch. It's a great game. If the theme were something different it would be highly sought after imo. For 2k it'll be hard to beat. That game has it all.

It'll be harder to resell when it comes time. That's the only downside.

Tell em it's your first ever pin and offer 1800.

Capcom Breakshot