Went to a great Tourney on Saturday and I was pretty excited to play the hosts new Metallica premium. He had the same problem a few have had, sparky smoked out of the box so his head was not shaking. I know there is a few youtube videos and reviews already, but I just wanted to give my take on it, because I watched the videos and was still unsure until I played hands on.
After playing it several times, I wanted to keep playing it, as it's very addicting. A couple notes, and some have been discussed before. The inline drop targets either need to be broken in or adjusted. Many rejections there, but very satisfying when they go down like they should. I love the back hand shot to these!
The hammer lock also acts like a fool. While there is plenty of strength and power at Sparky to hold the ball at its magnet, there does not appear to be enough at hammer lock. It's kind of neat, but more often than not, screws up your ball. Example. I was able to keep the ball in control and get consecutive shots to Sparky, but if the HAMMER lock is ready, it will try to grab the ball, and when it often fails, it send your ball flying out of control. Perhaps a code update will fix this.
Love the ramps. Great feel and flow to both. Not hard to hit but not easy either, just right and the sounds associated with them are super good.
Lighting is great. Some of the callouts are goofy, but some of the sounds are awesome, especially fuel.
All in all, this game is addicting. I love nailing the sparky shot and drop catching its return.
I personally would go Pro for many reasons besides cost.
One: I don't need the snake head to move. It's cool as it is, if it doesn't move.
two: The hammer lock is neat and all, but again not needed. I prefer the visible captive ball on the PRO and the fact that it does not disrupt gameplay.
three: While I'm a big spinner fan, I feel that Metallica just does not need them. It plays fast and has a lot of lights and action going on, that a solid shot is satisfying to either of those orbits.
four: Rising cross not needed. As long as there is a cross there and a magnet, I'm good. It is a very cool shot.
Very good value for a pro, now who has one for sale?