Simpsons Pinball Party: The Pinball Rumour Mill

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Simpsons Pinball Party: Remastered or Remake by Stern – The Pinball Rumour Mill

For many years rumours have circulated about a remaster, or perhaps even a remake, of Stern Pinball’s 2003 The Simpsons Pinball Party. Undoubtably driven by the incredible popularity of the Keith Johnson design, these rumours are once more starting to resurface.

Despite being over two decades old, The Simpsons Pinball Party remains one of the most sought-after Stern Pinball titles. Its combination of humour, mechanical variety and extraordinarily deep gameplay has cemented its reputation as a “grail” machine among enthusiasts and collectors. In many modern pinball rankings it still appears among the top machines ever produced, demonstrating how influential Keith Johnson’s design remains today.

The Simpsons Pinball Party: Keith Johnson’s design

The Simpsons Pinball Party is widely regarded as one of the most sophisticated and feature-rich machines produced during the early Stern Pinball era. Released in 2003 and designed by Keith Johnson, the game is celebrated for its exceptionally deep ruleset, humorous integration of the television franchise, and enormous replay value. Johnson is known for designing complex, rule-dense games, and this title exemplifies that philosophy.

At the centre of the design is a progression system built around collecting members of The Simpsons family and completing character-specific tasks. Players advance through numerous mini-modes tied to characters such as Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie. Completing these objectives unlocks increasingly difficult wizard modes, culminating in the Super Duper Mega Extreme Wizard Mode, which is considered one of the most demanding end goals in modern pinball.

The playfield layout reflects Stern’s early-2000s philosophy of mechanical density. It includes multiple ramps, a large captive ball system, a central couch toy, a garage mechanism, and an upper playfield used during specific modes. The rule sheet is famously extensive, with dozens of stacked modes, multiballs and scoring strategies available simultaneously. This depth means even experienced players can spend years mastering the machine.

Simpsons Pinball Party The Pinball Rumour Mill

Restored or modernised with aftermarket upgrades

ColorDMD: The Simpsons Pinball Party remains extremely popular with collectors. Many examples have been restored or modernised with aftermarket upgrades, such as the installation of a ColorDMD which replaces the original monochrome dot-matrix display.

PinSound: Another widely adopted upgrade is PinSound, which replaces the original sound board and allows custom high-quality audio packages. For The Simpsons Pinball Party, community creators have produced enhanced soundtracks and clearer voice samples sourced from the television series, giving the game an enhanced audio experience.

LED lighting conversions: Collectors also frequently add LED lighting conversions, improved speaker kits, and updated playfield parts to enhance reliability. Because the machine was produced during Stern’s transition from Sega Pinball, build quality can vary, so restoration work often includes reinforcing mechanical assemblies and replacing worn plastics or rubbers.

Given The Simpsons Pinball Party remains extremely popular with collectors, and the number of machines which have been restored or modernised with aftermarket upgrades, it surely makes sense for Stern Pinball to announce the definitive, updated 2026 Simpsons. Well, doesn’t it?

Will Stern remaster or remake The Simpsons Pinball Party?

A pinball theme remaster offers a chance to make visual and gameplay improvements while increasing compatibility with current technologies. However, a pinball theme remake creates an opportunity for the creative team to completely re-work their original offering, bringing it right up to date, while adding in features which may not have been available back in the day.

So, a remaster or a remake of Stern’s 2003 The Simpsons Pinball Party? Well, we for one would love to see it – and would certainly love to play it.

But will we see it?

Hear it here first on The Pinball Rumour Mill!

Ghostbusters Pinball by JJP? The Pinball Rumour Mill

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Ghostbusters Pinball by JJP? The Pinball Rumour Mill

Current pinball rumours which are now starting to gain traction, suggest the Ghostbusters licence may have moved on from Stern Pinball and now be in the possession of Jersey Jack Pinball.

Ghostbusters Pinball by JJP – licence context

Pinball licences are typically time-limited commercial agreements. Industry norms place terms in the 5-10 year range, after which renewal or reassignment may be required.

As Stern’s Ghostbusters pinball release is now a decade old, speculation about licence availability and an updated Ghostbusters pinball has started to grow. However, to date there is no confirmation that Stern no longer has the licence, or that Jersey Jack Pinball has managed to secure it.

Stern’s 2016 release was produced in Pro, Premium and Limited Edition models and centred on the original film. As it launched just ahead of Stern’s move to full LCD platforms, it now sits slightly behind current flagship technology. And that contrast, coupled with the popularity of Stern Pinball’s Ghostbusters, is perhaps one reason rumours about a potential re-imagining of the theme continues to surface.

What would a Ghostbusters Pinball by JJP look like?

Since its founding in 2011, JJP has positioned itself around “no-compromise” builds, high components and technology-led player immersion.

– Display and media integration

Expect full-HD LCD with film clips. JJP set the template for media-rich games with advanced lighting and audio in The Wizard of Oz, Dialed In! and Toy Story 4. Ghostbusters Pinball by JJP would likely focus on movie footage, character call-outs and clear story-driven modes, using familiar scenes to create a deeply engaging, interactive take on the theme.

Players will be immersed in iconic scenes from the original movie, with captivating gameplay creating a deeper and more interactive Ghostbusters universe.

– Audio and theatrical immersion

With multi-speaker surround systems already standard in JJP builds, expect a highly immersive, cinematic soundscape which makes use of positional effects, dynamic music transitions and dialogue-driven objectives.

– Lighting architecture

JJP’s RGB playfield lighting philosophy of dynamic colour mapping tied to modes and shots, would suit Ghostbusters exceptionally well. We would anticipate atmospheric colour palettes for ghost types and containment states, delivering a more theatrical presentation than the 2016 game.

– Playfield mechatronics and toys

Where Stern’s version emphasised layout originality, a JJP design would likely prioritise mechanicals including:

  • A motorised containment unit or “trap” mechanism with physical ball capture
  • Animated rooftop or firehouse set-pieces
  • Magnet-driven ghost movement or levitation effects

Ghostbusters Pinball by JJP – Is it just a rumour?

At present Ghostbusters Pinball by JJP sits firmly in the realm of speculation. If realised, the result would no-doubt be less of a remake and more of a re-interpretation. JJP would elevate Ghostbusters from a challenging modern classic into a fully theatrical, feature-rich centrepiece.

But will it happen, and if so, when? Here it here first at Pinball Heaven – Jersey Jack Pinball’s Official UK Distributor.

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Pokémon Pinball Machine by Stern Pinball

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Pokémon Pinball Machine by Stern Pinball – available now from Pinball Heaven

One of the most popular entertainment franchises in history

Pokémon is one of the most popular entertainment franchises in history and the highest-grossing media brand globally, generating over $100 billion in revenue. Its video games have sold more than 480 million copies, the trading card game has printed over 60 billion cards, and the series reaches audiences in 100+ countries, maintaining a huge multigenerational fanbase since 1996.

The aim of Pokémon is to catch and train Pokémon, build a strong team, and defeat other trainers to become the Pokémon Champion. Along the way, players explore the game world, complete the Pokédex by collecting species, and progress through battles, gyms, and story objectives.

Stern – Pokémon Collaboration

Stern Pinball, Inc., the largest manufacturer of pinball games in the world, in collaboration with The Pokémon Company International has now revealed and released its latest pinball machine – Pokémon by Stern Pinball. Since Pokémon debuted in Japan in 1996, Trainers around the world have embarked on countless journeys across the iconic entertainment franchise – all in pursuit of becoming a top Pokémon Trainer. Powered by Stern’s SPIKE 3 technology, this dynamic machine brings the thrill of catching, battling rivals and training Pokémon in the silverball arena for the very first time. Stern invites players to step up to the playfield and test their skills as Pokémon Trainers, battling rivals and facing off against the menacing Team Rocket in intense encounters. Pokémon by Stern Pinball is available now in Pro, Premium, and Limited Edition (LE) models.

“Today we’re proud to finally deliver the long-awaited Pokémon by Stern Pinball machine,” said Seth Davis, President & CEO of Stern Pinball. “This game is a true celebration of nostalgia, craftsmanship, and the enduring adventure of Pokémon – brought to life in a whole new way through immersive pinball gameplay, thrilling battles and the timeless excitement of catching Pokémon.”

Pokémon Pinball Machine by Stern Pinball

In Pokémon  by Stern Pinball, Trainers embark on an unforgettable journey across four distinct habitats, discovering, catching, and bonding with many of their favorite Pokémon. Players will shoot the illuminated, mechanically animated Poké Ball to catch Pokémon, build their ultimate team, and complete their Pokémon Collection. The playfield also features beautifully crafted Pokémon-themed ramps, spinners, and targets. Watch as the animatronic Pikachu reacts to your gameplay, cheering you on every step of the way! Trainers can battle their way through rival trainers and compete in the arena through dynamic, custom battle sequences. Danger lurks as Team Rocket and their infamous boss, Giovanni, plot trouble. The interactive Meowth Balloon toy swoops down onto the battle arena to challenge the Trainer. Premium and Limited Edition games include an interactive electromagnet that adds chaos to the battle arena.

Pokémon by Stern Pinball Game Trailer

Honouring the rich legacy of the beloved franchise

Every element of Pokémon by Stern Pinball has been meticulously crafted with attention to detail, honouring the rich legacy of the beloved franchise. The machine integrates video clips from the original Pokémon animated series, immersing players in the world that started it all. Bringing the experience to life even further, custom voiceovers for Pikachu and the notorious Team Rocket leader, Giovanni, captures the spirit and humour that fans know and love. To complete the nostalgic journey, the game proudly includes the iconic “Pokémon Theme” song, a true celebration of the timeless Pokémon adventure.

Utilizing Stern Pinball’s award-winning Insider Connected, Pokémon by Stern Pinball elevates the experience by connecting Trainers and their adventures across machines and locations. When Trainers play Pokémon by Stern Pinball signed in with their Stern Insider Connected Account, the Pokémon they CATCH will be added to their Insider Connected Pokémon Collection, which can be viewed in the Insider Connected app.

Pokémon Pinball Machine Pro & Premium – Available Now

Pokémon Pinball Machine Pro and Premium Editions are available now from Pinball Heaven. To secure your Pokémon by Stern, visit our online pinball shop, or call us on 01772 816 677.

Beetlejuice by Spooky Pinball

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Beetlejuice by Spooky Pinball

Beetlejuice by Spooky Pinball has been one of this year’s major success stories, having completely sold out within 30 minutes of its release. With production capped at 1,250 machines worldwide, comprising 750 Standard Editions and 500 Collector’s Editions, Beetlejuice by Spooky Pinball is set to become one of Pinball’s must sought after cult titles.

Beetlejuice by Spooky Pinball
Beetlejuice by Spooky Pinball
Beetlejuice by Spooky Pinball

Everything this film has to offer, and so much more!

Released in November 2025, Beetlejuice pinball players will experience everything this film has to offer, and so much more! From getting dropped into Saturn to battle a pinball-eating Sandworm, to working with your Case Worker Juno, or digging up Beetlejuice himself, players will be delighted by Spooky Pinball’s most memorable pinball moments yet. Aiding these moments and sequences are unlimited access to film footage and audio, the unforgettable Danny Elfman Beetlejuice theme, and Harry Belafonte’s “Day-O”.

Beetlejuice pinball is a creation brought to life by Spooky Pinball’s experienced Gaggle of Ghouls. Designer Duo Spooky Luke and Corwin “Bug” Emery are back, with their skills of theme integration, layout flow, interactive mechanisms, and so much more finely tuned in for their 5th game. Artist Christopher Franchi delivers his ninth complete art package, with a bold, twisted, and beautiful tribute to Tim Burton’s world. Joining the fun is Brady Hearn, conjuring a hauntingly fun soundscape that ties it all together. Programmers Spooky DJ and Casey Butler, under the direction of Luke Peters, have brewed the code into something truly special, fast, funny, and full of surprises! Capturing the chaos and charm of Beetlejuice like never before.

Beetlejuice Pinball Official Trailer - Spooky Pinball

Playfield Layout & Key Soots

The playfield layout is dense and asymmetrical, built around four flippers: two lower flippers, a right-side upper flipper controlling cross-playfield shots, and a dedicated upper-left flipper feeding a compact upper playfield area. The game uses tight shot windows, deliberately punishing missed shots with deflections into slings and outlanes, encouraging cradle control and shot planning rather than reactive play.

Key shots include a steep central ramp, opposing side ramps with controlled ball returns, stand-up target banks, and a series of opto-controlled lanes feeding a subway system beneath the playfield. Diverters dynamically alter ball paths during modes and multiballs, forcing players to adapt shot selection mid-ball. The upper playfield introduces short-range precision shots and controlled drops back to the main playfield, often under time pressure during modes.

Beetlejuice by Spooky Pinball: mode-driven

Gameplay progression in Beetlejuice by Spooky Pinball is mode-driven rather than linear. Players advance through film-themed scenes, including Netherworld sequences, character-based objectives and multiball-specific challenges. The ruleset allows extensive stacking, meaning modes, multiballs and scoring multipliers can overlap, significantly increasing scoring potential for skilled players. Poor timing, however, can waste opportunities, making rules knowledge essential.

Multiball modes are mechanically distinct, using physical locks, staged releases and diverter-controlled feeds rather than virtual locks alone. Risk-reward elements are prominent, with certain high-value shots positioned near dangerous rebounds or outlane feeds. Wizard modes require broad completion across multiple objectives rather than repetitive grinding of a single feature.

Audio and lighting integration are tightly synced to gameplay. RGB inserts clearly communicate rule states, shot priority and progression, while licensed callouts and custom voice work reinforce mode context without obscuring game feedback.

With its intentionally unforgiving layout, deep stacking rules and fixed production run, Beetlejuice by Spooky Pinball stands as one of the most technically demanding modern licensed machines, designed explicitly for players who value precision, strategy and long-term replay depth over casual accessibility.

Beetlejuice by Spooky Pinball
Beetlejuice by Spooky Pinball
Beetlejuice by Spooky Pinball

Spooky Pinball Updates

For updates on all Spooky Pinball products and new releases, visit Pinball Heaven, Spooky Pinball’s Official UK Distributor.

Pinball Hire at GIRO 2025 with Optalitix

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Pinball Hire at GIRO 2025 with Optalitix – featuring Stern Beatles Diamond Edition

Pinball Heaven recently supplied a Stern Beatles Diamond Edition pinball machine to Optalitix for use at the GIRO 2025 conference held at ACC Liverpool.

Optalitix Logo

GIRO & Optalitix

GIRO is a long-established UK conference for professionals working in general insurance, actuarial science and analytics. The event attracts senior figures involved in pricing, reserving, underwriting and risk modelling. Optalitix exhibited at GIRO to demonstrate its software platforms, which enable insurers and MGAs to deploy pricing and decision models more efficiently, consistently and at scale.

As part of its stand design, Optalitix incorporated the Beatles pinball machine and throughout the exhibition invited delegates to take part in a Beatles pinball challenge.

Pinball Hire at GIRO 2025
Pinball Hire at GIRO 2025

The Beatles Diamond Edition

The Beatles™ Diamond Edition Pinball by Stern Pinball is an ultra-limited collector model, with production restricted to just 100 machines worldwide and was produced exclusively for premium collectors and specialist installations.

Built on Stern’s SPIKE™ 2 system, the game features a fast, precision-focused playfield designed by Joe Kaminkow. The layout uses a traditional two-flipper design with stand-up targets, drop targets and spinner shots, deliberately echoing the pace and simplicity of early pinball. Gameplay is skill-driven, with rules centred on song modes, album progression and band member features.

The Diamond Edition is visually distinguished by exclusive cabinet artwork, a mirrored backglass, upgraded trim and enhanced RGB lighting effects not found on other versions. Each cabinet is individually numbered and permanently marked as part of the 100-unit Diamond Edition run.

Officially licensed Beatles music and video content are displayed on the LCD screen, complemented by dynamic lighting sequences during gameplay. Due to its extremely limited production, the Beatles Diamond Edition is rarely seen outside private collections and remains one of Stern Pinball’s most desirable modern limited-edition releases.

Short, medium and long term pinball hire

Optalitix’s use of The Beatles Diamond Edition successfully demonstrated how a premium pinball machine can be used to improve engagement, without detracting from the focus of the event.

Pinball Heaven provided the machine on a short-term hire basis including delivery, installation and collection from ACC Liverpool. Our short, medium and long term pinball hire service is used by a wide range of clients including hospitality venues, corporate customers and television production companies. Our wide range of pinball machines can be supplied for exhibitions, conferences, filming, product launches and promotional events.

Pinball Heaven has delivered pinball hire for 30 years and continues to see increasing demand for pinball hire in non-traditional environments. Events such as GIRO 2025 highlight the flexibility of modern pinball and its suitability for corporate exhibitions and industry conferences.

For Pinball Hire Contact Pinball Heaven

If you have a pinball hire requirement, contact us Pinball Hire today by calling us on 01772 816 677.

Pinball Heaven at the NEC Classic Motor Show

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Pinball Heaven exhibited at the recent Classic Motor Show at the NEC, showing off four of its most popular pinball titles, alongside a classic arcade game.

UK’s largest indoor celebration of classic cars and bikes

The 2025 NEC Classic Motor Show is the United Kingdom’s largest indoor celebration of classic cars and bikes, held at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham from 7 to 9 November 2025. It brings together more than 3,000 vehicles and over 300 car clubs, drawing thousands of enthusiasts from across the UK and beyond.

This three-day event showcases an extensive range of automotive heritage, including rare, iconic and historically significant cars and motorcycles. Highlights include high-value vehicles such as an £8 million Jaguar D-Type and collections of Bugattis, Ferraris and Alfas.

The show blends static displays with interactive elements. Specialist traders and autojumble stalls offer parts, memorabilia and services. The Iconic Auctioneers Super Sale lists hundreds of vehicles for sale; and competitions like Pride of Ownership let visitors vote for standout classics.

In addition to vehicles, there is a rich supporting programme featuring motoring personalities and content creators. Attendees can meet figures such as Richard Hammond and Mike Brewer, join expert talks, and explore themed zones catering to families and collectors alike.

The Classic Motor Show is both a major social gathering for the classic vehicle community and a comprehensive showcase of automotive culture, craftsmanship and related industries.

Pinball Heaven at the NEC Classic Motor Show
Pinball Heaven at the NEC Classic Motor Show
Pinball Heaven at the NEC Classic Motor Show

Strong retro crossover

Located on Stand 2-975, Pinball Heaven attracted constant interest throughout the Classic Motor Show weekend, with many attendees stopping to view and play the machines, reflecting a strong retro crossover appeal between classic motoring and pinball.

Pinball machines on display included Harry Potter by Jersey Jack Pinball, Texas Chainsaw Massacre by Spooky Pinball, Pulp Fiction by Chicago Gaming Company and James Bond 007 by Stern Pinball.

Harry Potter

Step into a world of spells, secrets, and sorcery with the Harry Potter Pinball Machine by Jersey Jack Pinball. This masterpiece transforms the magical world of Hogwarts into an immersive, action-packed game that lets players relive iconic moments from the beloved film series. Whether you’re a lifelong pinball enthusiast, a Harry Potter collector, or a wizard-in-training, this game delivers a spellbinding experience that captures the imagination of fans of all ages.

Harry Potter features four full-size flippers, multiple ramps and an upper Quidditch mini-playfield with its own flippers and objectives. Core shots feed spell modes, house progression and stacked multi-balls, supported by physical toys including the Whomping Willow with Flying Ford Anglia, a moving Hedwig, and a Dark Mark projection. Gameplay is driven by a deep ruleset covering all eight films.

Texas Chainsaw Massacre

Delve into the heart of horror with the Texas Chainsaw Massacre pinball machine. Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the iconic 1974 film, this machine offers a blood-curdling blend of nostalgia and modern gaming technology.

Texas Chainsaw Massacre by Spooky Pinball includes a playfield 360° whirling Leatherface, a meat grinder ball lock mechanism, a Leatherface kill-door bash toy, an orbit diverter with hook lock and a backside flipper ball lock. Collector’s Editions add fully integrated RGB toppers, custom speaker lighting, etched speaker grills, printed backglass, chainsaw-themed launch and start buttons, traditional knocker and shaker kit plus extra sculpted figures and graphics.

Pulp Fiction

Pulp Fiction by Chicago Gaming Company is a deliberately retro pinball machine with a single-level playfield, two full-size flippers, no ramps and a layout built around controlled shooting rather than flow. The playfield features three pop bumpers, two spinners in the orbits, a three-bank drop target, four “memory” drop targets, stand-up targets, kick-out saucers and a central gun magnet used to grab and redirect the ball. Display is via alphanumeric LED panels instead of an LCD screen, reinforcing its early-1990s design ethos. Audio includes over 250 original voice clips from 19 characters and licensed music from the film soundtrack, while physical toys include sculpted Vincent and Jules figures, illuminated briefcase and gold watch.

James Bond 007

James Bond 007 by Stern Pinball runs on the Stern SPIKE 2 platform. The playfield features three flippers, three ramps, drop targets and strategic shots tied to missions based on films such as Dr. No, Goldfinger and Thunderball. Key mechanical toys include a custom Aston Martin DB5 that ejects balls, a magnetic jetpack mechanism that grabs and positions balls, a Bird One rocket gantry with ball lock, and thematic targets such as Osato Chemicals and SPECTRE stand-ups that advance jackpots and modes. All editions include Stern’s Insider Connected™ system for global tracking and achievements.

Pinball Heaven at the NEC Classic Motor Show
Pinball Heaven at the NEC Classic Motor Show

All the pinball machines we displayed at the Classic Motor Show garnered great interest, with classic car enthusiasts playing the machines non-stop throughout the show.

3000 classic cars and an array of the very best pinball machines on the market – that’s some way toward our idea of heaven!

Pinball Sales and Hire Enquiries

For pinball sales and hire enquiries, call pinball Heaven on 01772 816 677 or visit our online pinball shop.

Retro Atomic Zombie Adventureland (RAZA) Returns With DPX

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Retro Atomic Zombie Adventureland (RAZA) Returns with DPX

Last month, Melvin Williams, Lead Designer at Dutch Pinball Exclusive (DPX), the boutique arm of Dutch Pinball, held a seminar at Pinball Expo Chicago, where he announced his next title: Retro Atomic Zombie Adventureland (RAZA).

The game’s design is inspired by the original concept from John Papadiuk, but has been re-engineered to DPX standards for enhanced playability and reliability. The full release of RAZA is planned for Q1 2026 and will feature a production run of just 333 units.

Zidware & Deeproot Pinball RAZA

For many, RAZA needs little introduction. Retro Atomic Zombie Adventureland began life over a decade ago as a John Popadiuk design at Zidware and later resurfaced as the flagship title for Deeproot Pinball. Prototypes appeared at the Houston Arcade Expo and in various showings in late 2019 and 2020, although full production never materialised.

The theme centred on a decaying atomic-age amusement park overrun by zombies. The artwork used dense hand-drawn detail and strong 1950s science-fiction influences. This visual direction created a distinctive atmosphere that separated Retro Atomic Zombie Adventureland from contemporary titles.

The playfield contained numerous mechanical features. These included a Ferris wheel mechanism, a Dare Devil Cycle ramp, a spinning Twister disc and multiple interactive target banks. The design echoed the energy and rhythm of classic Williams fairground games. Shots flowed quickly, and the overall layout aimed for an accessible but rewarding experience.

Rules from earlier prototypes focused on layered objectives. Players triggered Dare Devil jumps for multipliers and harvested Xenon Gas from the coaster. A space-gun target bank recharged Magna-Save features. Modes revolved around malfunctioning rides and sideshow attractions, giving the game a nostalgic but adventurous feel.

DPX RAZA

The DPX version of RAZA is expected to refine several elements. It will sit within DPX’s exclusive collector line alongside Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and the company has indicated that amongst other refinements cabinet art, display assets and rule adjustments will be updated. A dedicated animatronic topper is also planned, available only when ordered with the machine.

For collectors, this release represents a rare second chance to acquire a long-discussed and quite infamous title. If DPX delivers the robust engineering, modern electronics and polished code its audience is expecting, RAZA could finally achieve the reputation, and quite possibly cult status, its theme and layout have long promised

Retro Atomic Zombie Adventureland Enquiries

To enquire about Retro Atomic Zombie Adventureland call DPX’s exclusive UK Distributor Pinball Heaven today on 01772 816 677.

New Pinball Arrivals at Pinball Heaven

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New Pinball Arrivals at Pinball Heaven

With still time to order your new pinball machine and have delivery before the Christmas break, Pinball Heaven has just landed a fresh container of new arrivals to help make your Christmas that bit more festive!

Titles fresh include: King Kong Premium, Dungeons & Dragons Pro and Premium, Godzilla Premium, Metallica Remastered Premium, Jaws Pro and Jaws 50th Anniversary Edition.

King Kong Myth of Terror Island Premium Edition

The King Kong: Myth of Terror Island Premium Edition by Stern Pinball blends cinematic monster-mayhem with modern gameplay. tern Pinball This Premium Edition adds a fully animatronic Kong figure that reacts to your shots, a subway-car ball-lock that flips to launch multiball, a magnetic pit spider trap and a hidden log-diverter river lane. It also incorporates Stern’s Insider Connected™ online platform for global leaderboards and ongoing updates.

Dungeons & Dragons The Tyrant’s Eye Pro and Premium

Dungeons & Dragons: The Tyrant’s Eye Pro Edition from Stern Pinball transports the legendary Dungeons & Dragons fantasy setting into a fast, story-driven pinball experience. Pick your character class, progress through 21 linked campaigns spanning ten well-known dungeon environments, and confront classic adversaries such as Rath the Relentless, the fearsome red dragon, and the ever-hungry gelatinous cube.

Dungeons & Dragons The Tyrant’s Eye Premium Edition elevates the experience with upgraded features. It adds a multi-level playfield with hidden passageways, a trap-door dungeon crawl, enhanced animatronics such as the fully articulated Rath the Relentless dragon, and advanced features including a magnet-powered gelatinous cube ball capture. It also upgrades the game’s presentation with Dragon Red armour, anti-reflection glass, premium art blades and dynamic RGB lighting.

Godzilla Premium

The Godzilla Premium Edition from Stern Pinball drops you into the chaos as the King of Monsters versus the alien Xilien threat. The premium model features a motorised collapsing skyscraper that channels balls through three levels before locking them on the roof. You’ll also find a breakaway bridge ramp guarded by a custom-sculpted Godzilla toy, and a motorised three-bank target for launching Mechagodzilla multiball. Godzilla Premium Edition also features the “Magna Grab” magnetic Newton ball, hand-drawn Zombie Yeti artwork, and the floor-spanning playfield with ramps, spinners and the iconic “Godzilla” theme by Blue Öyster Cult.

Metallica Remastered Premium

Metallica Remastered Premium Edition by Stern Pinball revives a classic with modern flair: it features a full-colour LCD display and live concert footage, backed by Stern’s Spike 2 electronics. You’ll enjoy 22 licensed Metallica songs (eight more than the original release), new gameplay rules, and dramatic UV lighting effects throughout. The cabinet includes refined mechanics, updated toys and sculptures, and fresh artwork by Metallica artist Rhys Cooper, offering a powerful musical pinball experience.

Jaws Pro & Jaws 50th Anniversary Edition

Our final pinball new arrivals are Stern Pinball’s JAWS Pro and 50th Anniversary Editions.

JAWS Pro Edition plunges you into the suspense of the iconic 1975 film. Featuring a kinetic shark-cage captive ball, a moving shark-fin target, motorised blood in the water effects, with clips and sound from all four JAWS movies, including custom voice-work by Richard Dreyfuss. Three flippers, six balls, and the Insider Connected™ platform for quests, achievements and global leaderboards keep gameplay deep and engaging.

JAWS 50th Anniversary Premium Edition pinball machine boasts glitter-enhanced artwork, brass powder-coated wireform ramps and a bold Blood Red armour kit including matching legs, hinges and side armour. You’ll find an Orca Boat upper playfield with horizontal spinner and lookout tower ramp, a motorised shark-fin target and a Great White emergence bash toy bursting from the wrecked fishing boat. Complete with the original JAWS score by John Williams and voice work by Richard Dreyfuss, plus full Insider Connected™ features including team-play, co-op modes, achievement tracking and new wizard modes.

Make Christmas Special with our New Pinball Arrivals

So, make this Christmas extra special with one of our new pinball arrivals. There’s still time for us to deliver to your premises before the festivities start. Call us on 01772 816 677 to discuss your preferred delivery date. We look forward to hearing from you.

The Walking Dead Remastered by Stern & AMC

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The Walking Dead Remastered by Stern & AMC

The Walking Dead Remastered receives a comprehensive update by Stern and AMC, retaining the core layout but elevating every aspect for the modern player environment. Two editions are being produced: Premium and LE, with LE production being capped to 500 units globally, and they are really both not to be missed.

The original 2014 The Walking Dead pinball machine from Stern, designed by John Borg with software by Lyman Sheats, offered a fast, challenging, atmospheric experience. Key features included the Prison, the Well Walker bash toy, the Bicycle Girl ramp and the magnet driven Crossbow Shot. Its ruleset was deep and rewarding, combining mode stacking, walker kills, weapon collection and major wizard modes such as Horde, Last Man Standing and Terminus. The gritty artwork, sharp callouts and uncompromising gameplay still makes it a firm favourite with pinball aficionados.

Playfield & Mechanical Features

While the layout remains faithful to the original, The Walking Dead Remastered refines and updates many of the original mechanical features:

  • The Cell Block C prison building on the playfield remains a focal point, but has been upgraded in mechanical robustness and visual detailing.
  • The Bicycle Girl ramp bash toy and interactive Well Walker sculpture have been retained, but now with improved movement and response.
  • The crossbow ball-shooter mechanism has been re-engineered with improved reliability and accuracy.
  • Additional features: illuminated zombie heads on the slingshots, magnetic ball capture zones, multiple ramps and stand-up target assemblies, all designed to enhance the action.

Technical Foundation – SPIKE 3 Platform

The engine beneath the Remastered edition, designed by John Borg and built by Stern in partnership with AMC, is Stern’s new SPIKE 3 electronics platform. Compared to the original, this brings:

  • An 18.5-inch full-HD display above the playfield (replacing the smaller DMD displays) for motion graphics, video sequences and on-the-fly animations.
  • Improved processing power and memory, enabling faster transitions between modes with smoother graphic effects.
  • Enhanced audio system with higher fidelity speakers, plus wireless headphone compatibility and WiFi connectivity for future updates
  • Cabinet lighting customisation: full-spectrum RGB playfield lighting and Expression Lighting in the Limited Edition with external cabinet lighting zones.

Game Modes & Software Enhancements

The Walking Dead Remastered software retains the original pinball machine’s acclaimed rule-structure and modes such as Barn, CDC, Riot, Tunnel and Arena remain. But, new animation sequences, extended voice-overs and risk/reward refinement bring added depth to the gameplay.

Notable new features include:

  • New custom call-outs voiced by actors such as Michael Rooker (Merle) and Danai Gurira (Michonne).
  • Multiplayer/Tournament readiness: 4-player capability, dual flippers per side, plus play-field elements designed to support competitive play.

The Walking Dead Remastered represents a highly polished version of a pinball machine that was already considered to be outstanding. It honours the original design and feel while updating and upgrading it in every respect.

Reserve Your Walking Dead Remastered

To reserve your Walking Dead Remastered by Stern Pinball, visit our online pinball shop, or call Pinball Heaven today on 01772 816 677.

Big Bang Bar Remake – The Pinball Rumour Mill

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Big Bang Bar Remake by Pedretti? The Pinball Rumour Mill

Big Bang Bar, released by Capcom Coin‑Op in June 1996, remains etched into pinball folklore as one of the most intriguing “what could have been” pinball machines of the late 1990s. Only 12 prototype machines were officially listed as produced, following Capcom’s decision to fold its pinball division amid plunging sales. The game’s combination of risqué artwork, notable for the time, neon-lit sci-fi bar theming and complex rule-set cemented its cult status.

Capcom & Illinois Pinball Company

The origin story is rich with drama: Capcom entered the pinball market with high hopes, but by late 1996 the company had shut down its pinball operations altogether, never delivering a full production run of Big Bang Bar. Years later, in 2006, Illinois Pinball Company produced about 190 machines using up the remaining parts procured from Capcom’s inventory. This all adds to the mystique of Big Bang Bar as a rare, much sought-after artefact.

A very rare pinball machine - Big Bang Bar by Capcom

Big Bang Bar Remake by Pedretti?

Fast-forward to the present, and the rumour mill is now spinning around a potential Big Bang Bar remake. At the heart of the speculation is Italian manufacturer Pedretti Gaming, known for its faithful remakes of classic titles and precision build quality. Pedretti has been increasingly active in the remake field and is rumoured to be taking on Big Bang Bar as its next marquee project. Furthermore Kineticist lists Big Bang Bar among upcoming pinball machines and rumours in its 2025 Outlook, lending further weight to the possibility of a revival.

What makes this story particularly compelling is the intersection of nostalgia, rarity and modern pinball manufacturing capability. Pedretti Gaming, founded in the late 2010s and rooted in the long-standing Pedretti coin-op heritage, has developed a reputation for faithful builds, working with modern electronics while preserving classic layouts and feel. If they indeed take on a Big Bang Bar remake, players could see a machine that honours the original’s design while adding contemporary refinements, perhaps improved playfield toys and updated software with enhanced LED lighting and quality sound.

One of the headline machines of the year

Of course, like all rumours, there are caveats. Nothing has been officially announced, and as the historical record reminds us, the original Big Bang Bar was promised many years ago and only partially delivered. That said, the combination of an iconic title, the dedication of a specialist manufacturer and the appetite in the market for high-quality pinball remakes suggests this could be one of the headline machines of the year, or more probably next year.

Big Bang Bar Remake – hear it here first

Big Bang Bar’s story is one of lost potential turned cult legend. The rumours now swirling around a remake by Pedretti Gaming offers the possibility of resurrecting a much-loved cult status pinball machine for a new generation. For collectors and players alike, it’s a rumour mill well worth keeping an eye on.

Hear it here first on the Pinball Rumour Mill.

Walking Dead Pinball Remake – The Pinball Rumour Mill

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Walking Dead Pinball Remake by Stern Pinball – The Pinball Rumour Mill

Rumours of a Walking Dead Pinball Remake have gathered momentum recently across pinball forums and social media, with many speculating that Stern Pinball may about to revisit one of their most successful titles. While Stern to date has made no official announcement, there is growing belief that the company may soon revisit it’s ever-popular 2014 release.

Walking Dead – one of Stern’s most distinctive games

The original Walking Dead pinball machine remains one of Stern’s most distinctive games; fast, punishing, and thematically strong. Demand for clean examples is high, with strong second-hand prices reflecting the game’s reputation. And Stern’s recent pattern of re-releasing older titles in updated form, such as their Metallica Remastered, has naturally fuelled speculation that The Walking Dead may be next.

Walking Dead (2014) Pinball Gameplay and Rules

What a remake would probably include

If Stern applies its current approach, the remake would make use of the modern SPIKE 2 system with a colour LCD screen, updated audio, and Insider Connected integration. The playfield layout and rules would likely remain unchanged, but the lighting, callouts, and animations would be updated and enhanced. The original’s main criticism was its poor visibility in darker settings, so improved illumination and factory Expression Lighting would help make the game more immersive and enhance the playing experience.

Walking Dead Pinball Remake – artwork and licensing

Licensing remains the key unknown. The original licence was based on AMC’s television series; renewing or reworking that deal could determine the art and soundtrack. Some reports suggest Stern might explore a comic-style version if the TV rights are too restrictive, similar to its alternate comic editions of Star Wars and Avengers.

Existing owners – weigh up the benefits carefully

Owners of the original should weigh up the benefits carefully. A Walking Dead Pinball Remake would add Insider Connected achievements, improved lighting and possibly refined rules, but gameplay is unlikely to change dramatically.

A well-maintained original with tasteful upgrades may remain the better option for collectors happy with what they have. If this is the avenue you wish to take, then feel free to call us on 01772 816677 to discuss your current options for Walking Dead upgrades and enhancements.

Walking Dead Pinball Remake – Hear it here first

At present, the Walking Dead Pinball Remake is only a rumour, albeit a persistent one. The combination of ongoing demand, proven layout and Stern’s current remaster strategy makes a remake entirely plausible. However, until official confirmation arrives, all reports should be treated as speculation. But few would be surprised if the dead rise again on Stern’s production line in the coming months.

As soon as we have more information we will be sure to let you know. Hear it here first on The Pinball Rumour Mill!