I really wanted to like Houdini. I still do... But the fact of the matter is I don't like it. I don't like the feel. I don't like the flipper feel. I don't like the way the ball bounces. I don't like the shots. Maybe my opinion would change If I had a chance to play a well sorted out one set on free play. It does look beautiful at first glance.
If you can manage it, play one first. make up your own mind.