I sort of like it, turn the LE into Stern's version of Supreme. Hell, make it $30k. For wealthy people it will make no difference.

Then DITCH THE STUPID PRO and the premium becomes the primary model, like back when pinball was normal.

One game, full featured. Ops can turn off features they don't want to service.
I never bought a Stern because of the multi-tiered crap.

For me, it started with Metallica. First one I ever played was a premium and that was the error. Soon I started looking to purchase, only to discover to get the complete game costs alot more. It felt like a classic bait and switch. I couldn't believe they would actually strip down an arcade game.

I like many new Stern's, but only play them on location. I have read all the quality complaints, and they do feel cheaper to me compared to 90s B/W. Fun to play, but not interested in buying for the home, not since the cost cutting started.

Then we get to these prices. Holy shit. I'm glad to have a few physical games in the basement, acquired prior to massive inflation.

I am considering adding a virtual pin to finalize the collection. These prices are too much for me.