Quoted from frolic:This is often said, but really how often does a superfan "outside of pinball" spontaneously buy a pinball machine because they like the theme?
I can see superfans dropping quarters or dollars into a machine on location, but it takes a special type of person to buy something the value of a pinball machine.
To me, there is very little potential of selling pinball machines to people outside the hobby. It comes down to existing pinheads who buy crazy shit already, and operators where a hot license can mean more coin drop.
I think the KISS Army not buying up the KISSs confirmed for me that there isn't much potential, if at all.
You would be surprised at how many would by a Star Wars pin. Heck I bought my LOTR pin from original owner with less then 300 plays over a 10 year period. He was a fan of the movie, only pin he ever owned. Couldn't tell you how many pins I pulled out of people's houses the were one pin and done. A lot of people just want one pin and have no clue about collecting. Add in there favorite theme and it's a no brainer. Plus look at the age group of the original trio movies. Late 40's 50's. majority have some disposable income. Throw in a son or grandson that also likes the movie and bam! You got a sale. Yeah, there are already other Star Wars pins made but I'm pretty sure most one and done owners would rather buy that brand spanking new game that they believe will last for years and have warranty.
