AUSRETROGAMER

The Pop-Culture E-Zine

You are here: Home / Archives for Pinball

Pinball

Barrels of Fun Unveils Epic Second Pinball Game: Dune Pinball

By

Barrels of Fun, the boutique pinball manufacturer behind the acclaimed Labyrinth machine, has officially unveiled its second release: a pinball adaptation of the iconic sci-fi franchise Dune. The announcement confirms long-standing rumors and marks a significant expansion for the Houston-based company.

The Dune pinball machine draws inspiration from the expansive universe of Frank Herbert’s novels and their cinematic adaptations. While specific gameplay features have yet to be detailed, the machine is expected to capture the essence of the Dune saga, immersing players in its rich narrative and distinctive aesthetics.

​Pre-orders for the Dune pinball machine are now open through authorised distributors, with pricing at USD$11,600, this is an increase of USD$1K over their maiden pinball game (AUD $21,990). The machine is available in multiple editions, each offering unique features and artwork to cater to collectors and enthusiasts alike.

With the Dune pinball machine, Barrels of Fun continues to solidify its reputation for creating immersive, story-driven pinball experiences. Fans and collectors eagerly await further details and the opportunity to explore the sands of Arrakis through this new interactive medium.

For more information and to place a pre-order, visit the Barrels of Fun official website.

image source: Barrels of Fun

Thrill Of The Chase: Pulp Fiction BMF LE Pinball Machine

By

Worth the Wait: Our Pulp Fiction Pinball Adventure!

Some things in life are totally worth the wait—like the perfect coffee, a great concert, or finally getting your hands on that dream pinball machine. In this case, we waited almost TWO YEARS (yes, you read that right!) for our Pulp Fiction Bad Mother Flipper Limited Edition pinball machine (Ed: Wow, that name is a mouthful!).

The Thrill of the Chase

Our quest began in March 2023, when a fateful social media post set our pinball-loving hearts racing. A new machine was coming, designed by Mark Ritchie (yes, THAT Mark Ritchie!) from Play Mechanix, under the umbrella of RAW Thrills, and manufactured by Chicago Gaming Company.

When I hit play on the official trailer, Ms. Ausretrogamer happened to walk past. Her reaction?
💥 “We HAVE to get this!”
💥 “We HAVE to get the Limited Edition with that amazing topper!”

Well, as a certified pinball tragic, I didn’t need much convincing. The only problem? Securing one.

A Little Pinball Luck

Call it fate, serendipity, or just good timing—Wayne from Mr. Pinball Australia sent out an email just an hour after the trailer dropped. He had all the details on how to lock in an order, and I wasn’t about to waste a second.

My reply? “Lock us in for a Bad Mother Flipper Limited Edition!”. Deposit paid. Order confirmed. Now all we had to do was… wait.

The Agonising Wait

At first, we were optimistic. Production was supposed to kick off in late 2023—perfect timing for an epic Christmas surprise! But as the weeks turned into months, doubts started creeping in. Pinball forums buzzed with news of delays, and it became clear that our patience was about to be seriously tested.

So shiny (and new)!

23 Months Later… Jackpot!

As the saying goes, “Good things come to those who wait”—and in this case, 23 months of waiting!

Then, the moment we’d been dreaming of finally arrived: an email confirming our machine was ready for pickup! 🎉 The excitement was REAL. Seeing that notification pop up put a massive grin on my face—and on Ms. Ausretrogamer’s too!

We had done it. We had secured one of our dream pinball machines, and now it was finally coming home to the Ausretrogamer Fun Factory.

Was it worth the wait? Absolutely. Now, if you’ll excuse us, we’ve got some flippin’ to do! 😎🎮

Alice Goes to Wonderland Pinball: A Kickstarter We (Reluctantly) Can’t Ignore

By

At ausretrogamer, we’ve maintained a firm stance against featuring Kickstarter projects, aiming to shield our readers from the uncertainties that often accompany crowdfunded ventures. However, the upcoming “Alice Goes to Wonderland” pinball machine by Wonderland Amusements has managed to capture our attention, challenging our usual reservations.

A Bold Promise: Affordable, Mechanical Pinball for the Home

Wonderland Amusements pledges to deliver a fully mechanical pinball machine at 80% the size of a standard unit, all for under US$1,000. This proposition is undeniably enticing, especially for enthusiasts eager to bring the tactile joy of pinball into their homes without breaking the bank. The machine draws inspiration from Lewis Carroll’s timeless tale, aiming to blend classic pinball mechanics with whimsical “Alice in Wonderland” themes. The company has showcased vibrant artwork and animations that promise an immersive experience.

The prototype AGtW is looking good!

The Team Behind the Vision

The leadership at Wonderland Amusements comprises industry veterans with impressive resumes. CEO and Creative Director Jerry Cummings brings over 35 years of product development experience, having collaborated with giants like Disney and Mattel. Product Development lead Andres Quiros boasts a background in entertainment and gaming, including pivotal roles at Arcade1Up and as the founder of New Wave Toys. Their combined expertise suggests a team capable of navigating the complexities of bringing such a product to market.


source: Wonderland Amusements on YouTube

A Cautious Enthusiasm

While the project is ambitious and the team experienced, it’s essential to approach this with measured optimism. The challenges of manufacturing a mechanical pinball machine at this price point are significant. Potential backers should weigh the excitement of the concept against the inherent risks of crowdfunding. As always, we advise thorough research and consideration before supporting such projects.

For those intrigued, Wonderland Amusements’ Kickstarter campaign is slated to launch in March 2025. You can sign up for notifications on their Kickstarter pre-launch page.

Note: This article is for informational purposes and does not constitute an endorsement of the project.

DOOM II Strafing On A Stern Pinball Machine

By

Is there anything DOOM II won’t run and play on?!

We’ve seen this 1994 classic videogame run on lawn mowers, ATMs and now, it can run on a real pinball machine! How darn awesome is this!

We reckon Keith Elwin will be quite impressed, we just hope he can now return the favour by creating a real DOOM II pinball machine**!

** check out the DOOM homebrew pinball machine here.


source: bdash on YouTube

 

Over The Moon With Our Stellar Pinball Moon Shot Supernova Edition

By

Stellar Pinball Moon Shot Supernova Edition: A Miniature Masterpiece for Nintendo Switch Enthusiasts

To think we were super impressed with Far East’s Digital Pinball Cabinet and SakuraRetroModding’s PinSwitch, which are both darn cool, however Stellar Pinball’s Moon Shot mini-pinball machines for the Nintendo Switch OLED console are on another level, which have totally blown our minds to smithereens! These are an absolute masterpiece – yep, and we stand by that!

Even though you can only pre-order these amazing creations within the USA (Ed: we were lucky to have friends in the US that shipped this out to us), Stellar Pinball is looking into international shipping, which we hope happens in the near future, as more folks need to experience these miniature beauties!

Pre-orders sell out quite quickly (for good reason), so get on the list!
Stella Pinball VS PinSwitch

Of course we were going to opt for the top-of-the-line Stellar Pinball Moon Shot Supernova Edition, as we like our little mini-pinball machines to have all the bells and whistles. Honestly, this is an absolute gem for pinball enthusiasts and Nintendo Switch OLED owners. This 1/5th scale replica combines the charm of classic pinball with modern gaming technology, making it both a collectible and a functional marvel.

Attention to Detail

From its mind-blowing packaging, which looks identical to a real NIB (New In Box) pinball machine, to its illuminated cabinet and backglass, its high-quality vinyl cabinet graphics protected by a matte laminate, the Moon Shot Supernova is a showcase of craftsmanship. Handmade in the U.S., it boasts meticulous assembly, ensuring precision and durability. Every aspect, from the coin return buttons to the long-lasting LED lighting powered by AA batteries, highlights an exceptional dedication to detail​.

The packaging is just as impressive as the actual product!
With 4 x AA batteries, the; start & extra ball buttons, coin-slots, backbox and playfield light up.

Engaging Mechanics

What truly sets this machine apart is its interactive functionality. The working flipper buttons, plunger, and nudge bar integrate seamlessly with the Nintendo Switch Joy-Con controllers, delivering a tactile and immersive experience. Designed with the Switch OLED in mind, it accommodates both active gameplay and passive display modes. It’s compatible with top-tier pinball games like Pinball FX, Pinball FX3 and Star Wars Pinball, to name just a few, which maximise its features​.

The flippers and plunger are fantastic!

A Treat for Gamers

The Moon Shot Supernova’s compact size makes it ideal for enthusiasts who love pinball but might not have the space for a full-sized machine. Its visual appeal is matched by its gameplay mechanics, creating an unforgettable hybrid experience that bridges the gap between nostalgia and modern gaming​.

In short, this pinball machine isn’t just a novelty—it’s a testament to what happens when retro design meets cutting-edge tech. Whether you’re chasing high scores or simply admiring its artistry, the Moon Shot Supernova Edition is worth every cent for fans of pinball and Nintendo Switch gaming. Get on the pre-order list ASAP, as these sell-out quite quickly (for good reason)!

The attention to detail, including the packaging and contents is superb!

Just like a real pinball machine, but at 1/5th scale

Every little detail has been carefully thought out on the Moon Shot!

Ritchie and Alex Kinmont (and Associates) should be applauded for this creation

Small Machine, Big Fun indeed!

On it’s legs

Under the hood! The Joy-Cons go into the caddy and you are set!

This Stellar Pinball is a work of art!

The light-up start, extra ball buttons and coin-slots look pretty darn good!

We Had A Blast At The Inaugural Melbourne Pinball Expo

By

A Silverball Sensation: The Melbourne Pinball Expo 2024 Rocks the Flippers!

The pinball buzz has finally landed in Melbourne, and it hit with a bang! The inaugural Melbourne Pinball Expo (MPE) lit up the Matthew Flinders Hotel in Chadstone this past weekend, delivering a bumper-packed event that left attendees flipping out—literally.

Back in June, we gave you the heads-up about this one-of-a-kind gathering, and oh boy, did it live up to the hype! MPE brought together an eclectic mix of new and classic pinball machines, offering something for everyone, from seasoned flipper wizards to first-timers discovering the magic of the silverball.

A Playground for All Ages

Whether you came to chase high scores, bask in the nostalgia of retro classics, or marvel at the cutting-edge innovations of modern pinball, MPE had you covered. The best part? Seeing the pinball community in full force—old friends reconnecting over their shared passion and new faces lighting up with excitement. It was a celebration for all ages, proving that pinball truly is timeless.

Star Attractions Steal the Spotlight

Choosing a favourite machine was nearly impossible with so many crowd-pleasers on the floor. Stern Pinball dazzled attendees with their blockbusters like Jaws, John Wick, Foo Fighters, and Venom—machines that had players lining up for another go. Meanwhile, Jersey Jack Pinball wowed with Avatar, The Godfather, Toy Story 4, and Guns N’ Roses, drawing in pinheads eager to experience their stellar craftsmanship.

But the surprises didn’t stop there! American Pinball (AP) and Pinball Brothers (PB) made waves with standout offerings. AP’s lineup of Legends of Valhalla, Barry O’s BBQ Challenge, Galactic Tank Force, and the adrenaline-pumping Hot Wheels were absolute crowd favourites. PB turned heads with their music-inspired pins, ABBA and Queen, with ABBA’s interactive helicopter ball lock being a delightful highlight that never got old.

The view from the Jersey Jack Pinball stage

A Special Shoutout

Of course, we couldn’t forget CGC’s Cactus Canyon Remake and the ultra-cool Pulp Fiction SE—machines so popular, we had to elbow our way in just to get a turn. If you managed to snag some time on these, consider yourself lucky!

Already Looking Forward to 2025

Missed the fun? Don’t fret! The MPE team hinted that they’re already gearing up for an even bigger 2025 event. Make sure you follow our channels to stay updated, and in the meantime, feast your eyes on the gallery of moments we captured from this unforgettable weekend.

The MPE venue was perfect for pinball

 

 

Woohoo, a selfie with Slash!

Yep, I did TILT – and that was Game Over!
Some Mr Pinball Australia and ZAX Amusements goodies from MPE

 

Obey Your Pinball Master with Stern Pinball’s Metallica Remastered!🤘⚡

By

Stern Pinball Unveils the Thrilling Metallica Remastered: A New Era of Pinball Gaming

Stern Pinball, Inc. has just announced the launch of Metallica Remastered, an exciting upgrade to one of its most iconic pinball machines, originally released in 2013. This new version not only retains the spirit of the beloved classic but also enhances it with cutting-edge technology, making it a must-have for pinball enthusiasts and Metallica fans alike.

What’s New in Metallica Remastered?

The Metallica Remastered machine boasts significant upgrades, including a vibrant full-color LCD display featuring all-new animations and stunning live concert footage. Powered by Stern’s modern Spike 2 electronics, this game elevates gameplay and presentation, allowing players to enjoy an expanded tracklist with 22 songs—eight more than the original.

The game also includes exciting new features like an Expression Lighting system, improved artwork by renowned Metallica artist Rhys Cooper, and enhanced mechanical devices that add to the overall gaming experience. The original playfield layout has been preserved, but players will benefit from new geometry, improved gameplay toys, and dramatic UV lighting effects.


source: Stern Pinball – YouTube

Metallica: A Legacy of Influence

Since its inception in 1981, Metallica has redefined rock music, captivating audiences with their electrifying performances and groundbreaking sound. Their cultural impact extends far beyond music, creating a massive global fanbase. This new pinball machine pays homage to their legacy while offering a fresh take for both old fans and newcomers.

Design and Features

Stern Pinball’s design team, led by John Borg and software engineer Raymond Davidson, has meticulously reimagined the original game. They’ve introduced three stunning new sculptures: Sparky, the Hammer, and illuminated Skulls, along with a new Metallica logo on the back panel. Enhancements to the iconic Lyman Sheats rule set add two new game modes inspired by Metallica’s latest albums—72 Seasons and Hardwired…to Self-Destruct—alongside a new “Blackened” Wizard Mode.

Players can expect an immersive experience with over 1,000 new speech calls from the band, new sound effects, and seamless integration of additional Metallica tracks, complete with HD-quality concert footage.

L to R: Premium & Limited Edition

Limited Edition Highlights

For collectors, the Limited Edition (LE) model is a treasure. Limited to just 500 units worldwide, this version features exclusive elements such as the Expression Lighting System™ and custom-designed artwork. Other perks include upgraded audio, anti-reflection playfield glass, and a numbered plaque with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Get Yours Today!

Metallica Remastered is now available in Premium and Limited Edition models, with a range of accessories set to launch soon. Pinball fans and music lovers alike won’t want to miss out on this exhilarating new chapter in pinball history.

Marvel’s Days of Future Past Comes to Life with Stern’s New The Uncanny X-Men Pinball Machine❌

By

Enter the (Jack) Danger Room: Stern’s The Uncanny X-Men Pinball Brings Classic Marvel Action

Stern Pinball has unveiled their latest creation, The Uncanny X-Men pinball machine, designed by Jack Danger. This highly anticipated release dives deep into the beloved “Days of Future Past” storyline from Marvel comics, bringing a thrilling new experience for X-Men and pinball fans alike.

The game features a stunning playfield, with the Premium and Limited Edition (LE) models including standout features like the animated Sentinel toy, which rises from the playfield to challenge players, and Beast’s Lab, a vari-target feature exclusive to higher-tier models. The Sentinel head is a major focal point, capable of interacting with the ball through bash toys and even altering gameplay with its hands on the Premium and LE versions.


source: Stern Pinball, Inc.

Visually, the game shines with comic-style artwork from Jeremy Packer, aka Zombie Yeti, which perfectly complements the X-Men theme. The soundtrack, composed by Charlie Benante of Anthrax and Pantera, adds a dynamic and immersive layer to the action.

The gameplay is packed with interactive features. The Danger Room section, located near the left outlane, provides a high-risk, high-reward environment, while the Cerebro Lock offers a unique magnetic mechanism that holds and releases the ball, allowing players to shift between past and future missions. For tech-savvy players, Stern’s Insider Connected platform introduces game-specific achievements, mutant powers, and online quests, adding a fresh layer of connectivity to the classic pinball experience.

The Uncanny X-Men models L-R: Pro, Premium & Limited Edition
The Uncanny X-Men Pinball Designer, Jack Danger, threw everything at the playfield, including the kitchen sink!

With only 811 Limited Edition units available worldwide, a nod to the Earth-811 timeline of the storyline, this machine is set to be a highly sought-after collector’s item.

Whether you’re a seasoned pinball enthusiast or a die-hard X-Men fan, this machine offers an exciting blend of nostalgia, advanced gameplay mechanics, and connectivity that promises to keep you coming back for more.

Pricing:

  • Pro Edition: $US 6,999 / $AU 11,950**
  • Premium Edition: $US 9,699 / $AU 15,500**
  • Limited Edition: $US 12,999 / $AU 20,500**

** $AUD pricing to be confirmed

Peter Brock – ‘King Of The Mountain’ Pinball Machines

By

Leaving a burnout at last week’s AGE – the Australasian Gaming Expo (August 13 to 15), was Vector Pinball’s Peter Brock “King Of The Mountain” pinball machines – which were the talk of the exhibition. Both models of the Peter Brock themed pinball machines were on display at the Big Top Amusements booth.

The fully licensed Vector Pinball made machines feature Peter Brock’s 1979 Torana and the 1984 VK Commodore winning race cars at Mount Panorama (aka: Bathurst). Both variations of the King Of The Mountain retail for AU$11,900 (GST inclusive)!

For those pinball players outside of Australia, Peter Brock was a championship winning race car driver for Holden (GMH), much to the lament of the blue oval (Ford) lovers. Brocky won the Bathurst 1000 a record-breaking 9 times.

GAME FEATURES

  • Commercial Grade, Uses off the shelf Industry Standard Parts, 1 Year Warranty, 7 Day Phone Support, Onsite warranty options, depending on your location.
  • Different artwork on each side of the cabinet, 2 Backglass art versions available (see photo gallery), Option to have Black or White Playfield rubbers & acorns.
  • 3 Speaker Sound system
  • Cabinet Inner art Blades around the playfield to help create a world under glass.
  • Topper included
  • Shaker Motor Included
  • 3 or 5 ball play, digital volume control, etc all adjustable inside coin door
  • 32 Digit Alpha/Numeric Score/Information display. 2 digit Count Down Timer under playfield for challenge modes
  • Standard Ball Shooter with Auto Shooter built in for use when required
  • 2 & 3 ball Multi Ball modes
  • B R O C K upper lanes & K I N G Lower rollover lanes with lane change feature
  • Minimum play time – with auto Ball return feature
  • Skill Shot, Extra Ball, Jackpot & Super Jackpot, Bonus Hold features
  • 6 Drop Targets
  • Ball gate with Lift Control (top left)
  • 3 Flippers
  • 2 Sling Shots
  • 3 Pop Bumpers
  • 1 Spinner
  • 1 Captive Car shot
  • 6 Static Targets, 1 rebound switches
  • 2 LED strings, Each RGB LED on to and below the playfield is individually addressable for incredible light shows.
  • Software is upgradeable
  • 4 Highest Scores stored along with player entered initials
  • End of Game lucky Number match, Old School Knocker built in to Alert Match & Replays Awarded
  • Standard Pinball Tilt Bob Mech

If you missed playing these machines at last week’s AGE, then you still have a chance to have a flip at the upcoming PINFEST event in Newcastle (Sept 14 – 15) and also at the Melbourne Pinball Expo (Nov 30 – Dec 1).

PETER BROCK – 79 Holden Torana Edition

PETER BROCK – 84 Holden VK Commodore Edition

Playfield

image source: Vector Pinball

 

Level Up Your Pinball Game! Join the Ultimate Pinball Mastery Journey

By

A Pinball Related Kickstarter To Get Excited About!

We promised that we were done with backing Kickstarter campaigns, alas it was the ‘Mastering Pinball: In-Depth Skills and Strategies’ film that made us break that promise, but only this once!

So are you pinball wizards (Ed: Sorry!) and future pinball wizards ready to flip your skills to the next level? This new crowdfunded campaign aims to make you a true Pinball Jedi Master you’ve always dreamed of becoming. The Mastering Pinball: In-Depth Skills and Strategies is designed to turn every flip into a winning shot!

What’s It All About?

This isn’t just another quick guide—it’s a treasure trove of pinball wisdom from seasoned players and experts. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned flipper, this project is packed with advanced techniques, insider secrets, and strategies that will have you nailing those high scores in no time!

Why You’ll Love It:

📚 Comprehensive Tutorials: Step-by-step guides covering everything from basic skills to pro-level maneuvers.

🎮 Expert Tips: Learn from the best in the business, with tips that can only come from years of experience.

🌟 Exclusive Content: Access to special features, including interviews with pinball legends and behind-the-scenes insights.

Join the Movement!

This is your chance to be part of something truly special. By backing this awesome project, you’ll not only get access to unparalleled pinball knowledge but also become part of a community passionate about the silverball game.

Why Back This Kickstarter?

  • Early Bird Perks: Get exclusive rewards and benefits by pledging early.
  • Community Support: Help bring this invaluable resource to life and support fellow pinball enthusiasts.
  • Personal Growth: Transform your pinball skills and impress your friends with your newfound prowess!

So, what are you waiting for? Click the link, join the campaign, and let’s flip those flippers with finesse! 🚀