My wife and I spent several months (traveling for work) in Raleigh, NC. There was an arcade bar literally a couple blocks from our apartment that had about 15 machines, all LE’s/Premiums. We played a ton of pinball during that time, including Deadpool LE, Elvira Premium, and BM66 LE.
This was early-ish in Elvira’s life so the code wasn’t quite as fleshed out as it is now. I did have a great time playing it though (such a smooth shooter) and I’d probably put it at #2.
Deadpool has always been a fun one to me but my wife doesn’t care as much for how it shoots. I’ve never taken the time to try getting very deep in the game myself, so that might be why I don’t rank it higher in this group. Would still love to have one at some point.
Never played an Alien. Saw one in Buffalo at Pocketeer Billiards (also work travel) but it was out of order every time I walked up to it.
Something about Batman 66 just kept drawing us to it— probably played 2 or 3 games of Batman for every game played on another machine. I think for us it’s the simplicity of the “base” rules coupled with the overall theme integration. It just “feels” complete and intentional. The rules are intuitive and easy to explain to our non-pinball-savvy guests, but also deep enough to keep me interested over time with the minor villain strategies, mini wizard modes, etc. Nieces/nephews/friends’ kids all love that the crane comes out, even though it’s not a super original mech. Theme is also relatable for all ages, and it tends to put a smile on everyone’s face. That’s less true for the others, imo.
When we got back home from that Raleigh assignment I tracked down a used BM66 and we’ve had it ever since. Love it. It’s got staying power for us.