I can only speak for myself, but playing a game (especially a new one) before buying is very difficult. I don't have location pinball nearby. There are only two locations about an hour away and only one has newer games. There is a great show in Louisville each year and that is where I usually play the new stuff...but it is only once a year. With work and kids, even finding a few hours to go nearby is hard to do. With the older games, at least I can play it in a virtual environment (VPX) and get a "feel" for the game. I've only bought one before playing and I did sell after about 6 weeks. So, I won't be doing that again. Folks in pinball heavy environments have no idea how great they have it. For the vast majority of us, it is just not around. It makes you realize how small this hobby really is.