Quoted from ktownhero:
It could be work depending on what you are talking about. Are you talking about changes that would fundamentally change the way scoring or other behavior works? Not only could it be work, but it's also a mess to have machines out there running potentially two or more variations of the firmware. Plus, like I said in my prior reply, what benefit is it to Stern? They probably make more money selling Pros in volume than LEs in trickles.
I mean, machines already have tons of customization. Maybe you (and others) should try to be more specific and come up with an idea of what you are talking about?
EDIT: I'm not trying to shoot the idea down, I'm just offering my expertise as a software developer to provide a counter-point.
Fair enough, but lets try this. First, far be it for us to determine Sterns profit margins relative to the 3 versions.
We all see prices climbing, and expected to climb even further.
We, meaning the masses tend to buy Pro or Premium, and we see differences in game play via ramps, upper playfields, lower playfields, but we no longer
complain about the disparity and rules with scoring between 2 very different games.
We see only cosmetic differences on an LE to spend several thousand more. Many seem burned on the cost, value, and depreciation, so I was thinking about not adding more to a playfield like the pro difference, but more to code. Would one want more hardware on n LE?)
So we now go to specifics. In Sound, the ability to add/change music with an easier interface. We do this now as a MOD.
Color RGB Lighting, the ability to change lighting affects. We do this now with Bulbs and Pin stadium.
Code wise Scoring controls. Skill shot scores what? Extra Ball, Special, Huge Points?
Orbit or Ramp shot control, How many shots, for what kind of reward? ( Irealize some of this exists)
I am not suggesting a coders nightmare, nor do I have all the ideas that others might.
I just feel as High end games seem to be heading to a permanent 10K price, is just limiting numbers with some cosmetics, good enough?"
Sometimes I feel that if more LEs were sold, it could affect the price of a Premium, maybe.....