We're getting false readings from "captive audience" situations. Pinball specific events and venues are packed and it can feel like we're seeing the return of something big. But once a location introduces competition into the mix, whether it's video arcades, that Golden Tee Machine, or those timed basketball shooting contraptions, forget about it. I see a parade of mostly open, unplayed pinball machines. Same experience with your home of 43 pins vs 12 video arcades when the kids come over.
I get that some under 40 dudes are "discovering" pinball, and get the itch to start collections. But this is hardly the groundswell needed to absorb the increase in manufacturing and pricing we're seeing.
I hear the sound of a bubble popping in the not too distant future.