It's a tough, tough game. But don't give up on it. The rewards are huge.

The shot you need to make (multiple times) is one of the toughest in all of pinball, but when you make it, you'll get the best pinball adrenaline rush that's currently available (getting three balls into the hyperloop). It's the same shot for the Deathstar explosion. I have only achieved that thrice. It's a good feeling but nothing like getting that hyperloop pumping.

You asked if you can get easier settings. Sure. Narrow the side gates, especially the one on the left, play 5 ball games, put all the game settings on "Easy", and set the ball save to be on for 2 seconds after the mystery lock is engaged. I have only tempered with the ball save, to reduce my frustration with the mystery lock spitting my ball straight in-between the flippers, causing a drain straight after a good shot, and it's made a big difference to the enjoyment level.