Quoted from Lethal_Inc:But where Stern has the edge is game code, depth, and fun. Sterns just work and keep working.
KISS, WWE, Xmen, GoT (continuous fixes), Avengers (just finally fixed),WoF, AP, RCT, Striker Xtreme, etc
I think you might have your manufacturers mixed up on code?
Only the last 5 years have there been improvements with the exceptions of LOTR, TSPP, RBION, and SM.
Most of the games code in past 15 years was average at best.
Some games are unfinishable or still have bugs that seasoned players or owners will go WTF.
Most games code is taking 2-3 years to get fixed for proper playability, if at all.
BLY/WMS limits were based on memory technology, not endless corrections or released games with unfinished code.
It has become the new Stern "standard".
"Stern just keep in working".
Ask an any operator, and you may realize that this is inaccurate. Many corners have been cut in the past, and continue to be now. Build quality is dependent on conditions, but complexity is not the nature of most Stern machines for reason. Home environment is different.
Many Stern routed machines are trashed, while BLY/WMS games still being operated. SPIKE looks like it will help in the long run.
However, NIB 90s BLY/WMS machines had overly complex engineering designs (TZ, STTNG, RS, etc) and underdesigned power supplies.
Design engineering of a well restored game indicates good performance, the reason Stern games "seem" to be more reliable is their electronics are new, and mechanical designs are simpler in features. Most in fact are rehashed of existing design features from BLY/WMS games (magnets assemblies for example).
Stern flipper designs HAVE improved.
Most System 11 games are built like tanks comparative to modern Sterns.
You have evaluate decades of machines for comparison not the last 2-3 years with titles like TWD, AC/DC, or MET.
Stern needs to raise the bar on their production standards.
Ever see a 2003 LOTR (Whitestar) on a route?
You will not like it...
