Couldn't agree more. If the pin doesn't shoot well, it's not going to have broad appeal. Even though simple fan layouts might not be innovative, they've been proven to work when combined with more innovative/complex rule sets.

Balcer's crowning achievement is TSPP. It's unfortunate he didn't come up with a design that trumped TSPP. He's also no longer employed by JJP, which also says something. The JJP/Balcer partnership was short lived.

Dialed In shoots so well. Just got mine and hope to become more knowledgeable about the rules. So far, so good.

snaroff

I agree with you on GB It's really not a tremendous loss, since most folks have space constraints and there are plenty of other pins to try/buy.

My lack of enthusiasm for TH is based on a dozen or so games. A THLE was available locally for $6,100 and I almost purchased it (someone else beat me to it). For that price, I'm willing to give it more time to see if it grows on me. Based on my first/second impressions, I would never pay retail for a THLE.

I really think the "bottom line" on The Hobbit's appeal is the depressed street price for the title. It certainly isn't the license or overall beauty (which are first rate).

snaroff