Quoted from I_See_Pin_People:Would you say that Wonka has longer ball times than a pin like Star Wars? That's one of the main issues, I don't have a problem with my family and friends not knowing the rules because all of that can be learned over time. I don't want something that has really short ball times because that's what Star Wars is like for someone that's not the best player. I'll be the one getting deeper into a game, but I definitely want friends and family to enjoy flipping around. The Wonka theme is perfect, no problem there.
I don't think Wonka has significantly longer ball times than Star Wars. I think you will find they are very similar. Both can drain very quickly and cheaply. You could crank up the ball save timer on both to extend game-play. Wonka has a pretty short ball save time out of the box.
Wonka has apparently easier shots (the ramps) but you aren't going to get anywhere only shooting for them which I could see a novice doing. Without a little help determining what to do, a novice is not going to get very far on either.
I just LOVE the rules on Star Wars, so fun and challenging. I'm still trying to figure out strategies for Wonka and I've had mine since it started shipping!
Wonka is by far the more spectacular looking game both while playing and in attract mode.
Other than the ball time thing, I think you will enjoy Wonka, especially if you are a fan of the theme.