Quoted from NPO:Yeah, it's a bummer to have to wait a year+, but man, with life happening all around me and limited funds, it gives me time to get my money ready so when the code is solid and "it's time" - I can purchase my game with the utmost confidence.
For anyone new to the hobby, this cannot be repeated enough. Avoid the latest shiny NIB releases that get all the attention, and all the risk that comes with purchasing them. Plus the NIB costs are getting out of hand. Instead buy something that is already proven to have fun gameplay, has great code, and is readily available to play firsthand before buying. You'll likely keep some money in your pocket as well, and have little worries about your purchase. You can't go wrong with this mindset.
If I had to buy a Stern today, it would be TWD. My last purchase Stern purchase was an IMVE last summer. The latest Stern/JJP releases aren't even on my radar anymore. I'd only consider them after the code is complete, and it really actually maters who is coding/designing. It took years of hands-on gameplay for me to come to this realization.
And never forget the golden rule: LYMAN + BORG = PINBALL BLISS
Full Disclosure: I did buy a TNA, but that is a completely different beast altogether from the other companies releases. I have a thing for early 80s Bally/Williams games & brutal gameplay. TNA scratches that itch....and them some!
