So I think I finally have a LOTR in line to purchase if I want it. However, I recently had the chance to play a lot of SM. I really enjoyed both, but for those who happen to own both, what are your thoughts on the two in single game collections?

E: Just so anyone new to the thread is wondering, I am getting my LOTR on Sunday, so consider this more an open discussion on two of Sterns best.

I put about 10 games on each today. A few on one, moved to other, rinse, repeat. They're both do different but so good, haha.

From the sound of it, I can't go wrong with either, but it's just a matter of making a decision right now.

Thanks mate. That's good info for sure.

Pleasing the wife is important. I should run the games by her to see what she thinks...

Thanks for all the information and personal accounts. It's great to read about WHY you all prefer the game you do.

As it stands, I think I will likely go with my original choice of LOTR. I think the overall epic feel of the game is what is selling me on it. Also, the rules are fantastic, the music is crazy good (TABA), and the "feel" of it all jive with me. That's not to say I won't be hunting down a SM sometime after (or trading out once that time comes if it does) but I do think that after reading and thinking on it mkre, LOTR will be a better fit for me.

Both isn't an option at the moment, but I'm considering it as a 2-pin collection, ha. SM was a blast when I played it, but I think I prefer the long game style of LOTR and the "quest like" nature of it. It's such a deep and involved game. SM is so fantastic, but I think LOTR is winning out in my head.

I should be getting my LOTR Sunday.

Definitely loving the open discussion on these two games, though. I never realized how good both were until playing them both!

I didn't get the feeling of clunky shots when I played it on location, but maybe I've just not played enough pinball.

Also, callouts are insane, and the TABA theme is just magic. I can't wait to get this machine and start playing, haha.

That girl is a much better player than me to have made it to TABA!

And her calling it magical was icing on the cake!

I don't entirely understand the description of clunky on LOTR. I've tried to read the post over and over, but I think it's entirely preferential, no?

Thanks for that reply someoneelse. I guess I can see how those things translate to clunkiness. I actually don't mind it, but some folks probably can't stand that, haha.

Regarding the sound upgrade, the better speaker setup will yield better sound? I may have to add that to my list of mods...

It's funny...I've got WTB ads out on both, but given what I heard prior to TPF and now with the TPF information, I may be better waiting to get a cheap original after Stern announces their next game. I have a strong hunch it will be one of these two titles. Strong enough where I may be comfortable just waiting it out before tossing money around, haha.

Both games are on my radar, but finding them seems to be the challenge.