Brian Eddy

Stern Pinball and Marvel Unleash Venom Pinball!

July 19, 2023 By ausretrogamer

Choose Your Host,
Change The Game

There will be carnage at this year’s Comic-Con as Marvel and Stern Pinball debut an all-new line of pinball games featuring one of the most enigmatic, complex, and iconic characters, Venom!

Venom pinball will be available in (from L to R): Pro, Premium & Limited Edition (LE) models

Get ready for a thrilling adventure into the mayhem of the Marvel Universe with the one and only Venom! This alien symbiote, famous for bonding with the likes of Eddie Brock and wreaking havoc, has now made its way into the world of pinball. That’s right, Venom is taking over game rooms and entertainment locations worldwide in a visually striking and action-packed pinball game brought to you by Stern.

For those who aren’t familiar, Venom burst onto the scene in The Amazing Spider-Man comic book series back in the ’80s. With its dark and unique appearance, Venom quickly became one of Marvel’s most iconic and beloved characters. From action figures to apparel, collectibles to now pinball, Venom’s influence on popular culture knows no bounds.

Stern’s Venom pinball game is a thrilling journey into the world of this antihero, featuring a lineup of over 20 characters from the Marvel Universe. You’ll encounter familiar faces like Eddie Brock, Flash Thompson, Gwen Stacy, and even the legendary Peter Parker himself. But it doesn’t stop there! Black Suit Spider-Man, Miles Morales, Riot, Agony, Lasher, Phage, Doppelganger, Venomized Hulk, Venomized Wolverine, and Venomized Captain America are all part of the action. Brace yourself, because Venom’s arch enemy, Carnage, is on a mission to awaken Knull, the God of the symbiotes. It’s up to Venom to stop him and his army of symbiotes from taking over the world.

Venom Pinball – Official Game Trailer

source: Stern Pinball

In the game, you’ll take on the role of Venom and select a host to bond with at the start of each thrilling adventure. This choice will not only affect your digital experience but also alter the physical gameplay itself. Prepare for constant frenetic action as balls are released from vertical pinball lock symbiote containment vessels on both sides of the playfield. You’ll explore shots through mechanically changing pathways, like the Agro-Lab and Life Foundation, and bash an interactive Carnage captive ball back into Ravencroft Institute for the Criminally Insane. But beware! A surprise Doppelganger attack could happen at any moment, causing chaos and unveiling three uplift targets for you to conquer.

The visual experience of the Venom pinball game is a work of art. Renowned artist Jeremy Packer, better known as Zombie Yeti, has created stunning hand-drawn comic book style artwork that immerses you in the dark and gritty world of Venom. And to make the experience even more intense, GRAMMY Award-winning musician Mark Tremonti has contributed over a dozen music tracks that change depending on the host you choose. Get ready for a soundtrack that perfectly matches the adrenaline-pumping gameplay.

Venom Pinball by Stern Pinball, featuring Seth Davis

source: Stern Pinball

But wait, there’s more! Stern’s award-winning Insider Connected™ system takes the Venom pinball game to the next level. With this feature, you can interact with the game and a global network of players in various exciting ways. You’ll be able to save your game progress through connectivity persistence, so you can continue your journey as Venom no matter how many attempts it takes to reach the final wizard mode. Plus, you can track your progress, earn game-specific achievements, engage with the player community, and participate in promotions and Challenge Quests. It’s an all-encompassing experience that brings pinball to the modern era.

The Venom LE will most definitely sell out quickly!

And for the collectors out there, you don’t want to miss the Limited Edition model of the Venom pinball game. With only 1,000 games available worldwide, this highly collectible version features a Venom vs. Carnage inspired full-color mirrored backglass, stunning high definition reflective foil decal cabinet artwork, custom high gloss Venom-inspired “goo” powder-coated pinball armor, and so much more. Each Limited Edition game comes with a sequentially numbered plaque and a Certificate of Authenticity signed by Stern’s President & CEO, Seth Davis. It’s a piece of pinball history that you’ll want to add to your collection.

So, get ready to unleash the power of Venom and dive headfirst into an unforgettable pinball experience. Stern’s Venom pinball game will transport you into the heart of the Marvel Universe, where you’ll battle against Carnage, save the world, and become the ultimate (anti)hero. Don’t miss your chance to join the action and make your mark on the global leaderboard. Get your hands on Venom pinball and let the symbiote take control!

Visit the official Venom Pinball game page at sternpinball.com for all information on this game changing pinball experience.

PS: For Venom/pinball fans in Australia, contact either AMD Coin-Op or Zax Amusements to secure your Venon pinball machine!

Australian Price List ($AUD):

Venom – Pro $11,950
Venom – Premium $15,500
Venom – LE – contact AMD or Zax Amusements

Stern Pinball – Venom LE in all its glory!

image source: Stern Pinball

Stern’s Venom Pinball Set to Make Waves at Comic-Con

July 12, 2023 By ausretrogamer

Hands up who is going to the Comic-Con International in San Diego next week? If you are, we are very very jelly! Why? Well, apart from being at one of the best Cons in the world, there will also be a new pinball machine unleashed by Chicago based Stern Pinball!

Speculation surrounding the release of Venom, a game that has been shrouded in secrecy for some time, is finally reaching its climax as the renowned comic book-themed pinball machine is set to be revealed at Comic-Con (July 20-23). Designed by the esteemed Brian Eddy, with art by the talented Zombie Yeti, this game has been patiently awaiting its moment in the spotlight.

Sources close to the industry have revealed that Venom was actually ready for launch earlier, but it was shelved temporarily to ensure that James Bond 007, a crucial release for the brand’s 60th anniversary, hit the market on schedule. The strategic decision to prioritize the iconic secret agent’s milestone celebration undoubtedly raised the anticipation surrounding Venom’s unveiling even higher.

Brian Eddy (L) and Dwight Sullivan (R) with Brian’s sophomore Stern title, The Mandalorian

In an exciting turn of events, Orange County Pinballs, a trusted distributor, has confirmed that attendees at Comic-Con will have the opportunity to get their hands on the new cornerstone game. However, contrary to earlier reports, demo games from the show will not be available at a discounted price. It seems that eager fans will have to wait a little longer to bring the pinball action home, as production of the game is projected to commence in September. Nevertheless, the chance to experience Venom firsthand at the convention is an opportunity not to be missed.

Comic-Con attendees are in for a treat as the event’s program guide reveals a must-attend seminar titled “Into the Pinverse: From Comic Book to Pinball.” Scheduled for July 20 at 2:30 PM Pacific Time, the seminar promises a captivating moderated Q&A session featuring industry heavyweights such as Seth Davis (CEO of Stern Pinball), Zach Sharpe (head of Marketing), and Brian Eddy (lead game designer). Pinball enthusiasts and comic book aficionados alike can look forward to gaining unique insights into the creative process behind bringing these beloved characters to life on the pinball stage.

As the excitement builds to a crescendo, Stern Pinball has stoked the flames of anticipation by releasing a tantalizing teaser video for their upcoming game. The footage confirms the long-standing rumor that Venom will indeed be the star of the show, setting pulses racing with its intense gameplay and captivating visuals. To further ignite fans’ fervor, a very limited number of Venom LE (Limited Edition) pinball machines will be available for purchase exclusively on the Stern Store, providing an exclusive opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts alike to own a piece of pinball history.

The countdown to Comic-Con begins, and pinball enthusiasts around the world eagerly await the reveal of Stern Pinball’s Venom. With a dream team of designers and artists behind the scenes, this new cornerstone title is poised to make waves and leave a lasting impact on the industry. Stay tuned for the latest updates as the pinball universe braces itself for an electrifying new addition.

Interview with The Mandalorian Pinball Designer – Brian Eddy

May 24, 2021 By ausretrogamer

To say we are fans of Brian Eddy designed pinball machines would be a gross understatement! There is a reason why Brian’s machines have withstood the test of time and are still ranked as the best pinball machines of all time – they are pure fun and are approachable for all players, regardless of skill level.

When Stern Pinball announced back in March 2018 that Brian would be making his return to pinball, the excitement among his many fans (us included) was palpable. There was speculation on what Brian would be working on over at Stern, with his maiden (Stern) title being Stranger Things, released in December 2019. Since then, Brian had been working on his sophomore Stern game, which we now know was The Mandalorian. Officially released on May 11, 2021, The Mandalorian has garnered a lot of interest and attention around the world, all for good reason – it’s a Brian Eddy designed pinball machine of one of the most popular Disney+ TV series based on the largest pop culture franchise in history.

As Star Wars fans and of course, Mando fans, we have also been caught up in the excitement of all things The Mandalorian pinball, so it was great to have a chat with Brian about his experience in designing this highly anticipated pinball machine.

AUSRETROGAMER: How difficult was it designing and creating The Mandalorian while season 2 was still in progress?
Brian Eddy [BE]: It was certainly a challenge. We wanted to use both seasons, so we focused on ways of making it happen right from the start. Disney wasn’t able to tell us much about season 2 during development. It was all kept very secret, just like the reveal of The Child in season 1. So like everyone else, we had to wait for each episode to air to see what happened and what content would work in the game. Disney was very supportive of using season 2 and helped us plan ahead on how we could make it happen. The art needed to be pretty much done before Season 2 even aired, so we did things like leaving space on the backglasses and playfield for certain characters or items. We didn’t know who or what they would be, but Disney said, “you should leave some space here for 3 characters”. Then when the episode aired and the item was revealed, the artist, Randy Martinez, would quickly fit in the item to get us to production on time. We did the same in software and left certain holes in modes for themes we expected we would want from season 2. It actually worked out really well and allowed us to pick and choose from the best characters and scenarios that fit the game but was rather tricky at times since it came so late in the development cycle.

ARG: Did you have to re-design or retro-fit any design aspects (mechs/shots etc) as season 2 unfolded? If so, what where they?
BE: We did not change any mechs/shots for season two. We knew with the development timeline, that would not be possible. But that was fine as we picked the core concepts of the series and items from season 1, we knew it would be in season 2 to make sure they would still be relevant and stayed away from ones we thought would not be a big part. Though I will say, we were shocked when the Razor Crest was blown up toward the end of season two as it was a core of the series, but it’s still a really important element and a tight tie-in with Mando.

ARG: Which model do you begin designing for first and why?
BE: I start with the premium. I like to look at the whole picture of the design and how all the elements work together and fit on the playfield. How does each element enhance that model but not change it completely. Then for the Pro, look at what elements can be removed while still making sure the core playfield is there. It’s a tough balance as I want all the models to be fun and a little unique in their own way. I think we found that balance well on Mandalorian, each model plays similar, but a little different, and both are fun!

The Mandalorian Lead Designer, Brian Eddy (Left) with Lead Software Engineer, Dwight Sullivan

ARG: This machine oozes Brian Eddy with clever and unique mechs, intelligent design that draws players of any skill levels and flowy shots that ramp up the difficulty (in a good way!) – do you have a favourite mech, shot or design aspect in The Mandalorian pinball machine(s)?
BE: I always like to have flow in a pinball machine which is a core element I love in Steve Ritchie games. You will have these moments when playing where you just hit shot after shot, each shot leads to another, and it just feels great when you pull it off. Shot-wise, the right up/down scoop is fun because it changes the flow and allows you to loop continuously on one shot for a set period of time. A fun “how many times can you do it” break from flipper to flipper flow. But I think my favorite is the Encounter rotating playfield. It’s deceptively simple but challenging to play well. We start it out flat with simple rules of hitting lit targets, and most people can play this for a bit. Then as you get comfortable and get deeper into the game, it will start rotating steeper and steeper, and your reactions need to be quicker and tuned to the new gravity. At times it’s moving when you are playing, so there are lots of variations. It’s also obvious what you need to do to hit the flashing targets, but it’s hard to master. That adds up to a lot of fun long-term. Rule design-wise, I like most things to be pretty straightforward and easy to follow for anyone who jumps in. The programmer, Dwight Sullivan, is doing a fantastic job achieving that feel while adding in some long-term strategic elements for the more skilled players, like saving Beskar to trade at the Foundry for features.

ARG: We also absolutely love the look of the rotating Encounter upper mini playfield (on the Prem/LE models), how did you come up with that and were there many iterations from concept to final design?
BE: Yes, lots of iterations. I went through several different layouts. I had more targets at first and different playfield shapes, but some were too hard to hit and not as fun. I tried larger and smaller playfields, and each had its pluses and minuses. I wanted to be able to go near vertical, so that drove some of the size and balance also. I tried mini flippers but went with full size as you just didn’t have enough time to make targeted flips or enough power for it to work as well when vertical with the mini flippers. Spacing was a big issue between the flippers also. Too much, and it was way too hard when vertical, too little, and the ball wouldn’t drain. Then fitting it all onto the playfield was a tight space challenge. The mechanical engineer, Tom Kopera, did an amazing job fitting it in and delivering a ball no matter what angle it’s at. I didn’t want it to be an element of the playfield where you went, and play was stopped for a long time while you were playing it and then back to the main playfield. I wanted it to feel like a shot on the main playfield, integrated into the flow, where you could go anytime for a quick unique challenge, even in a multiball. On the Pro, I find it a similar but different experience. Since you only have one flipper, there can be some bumping element to playing it well that is fun in its own way. We also increase and decrease the flipper strength to help ramp up the difficulty. So both are fun to play in their own ways.

ARG: When this machine came up, did you have to fend off other designers to get the gig?
BE: I was already a big fan when it came up and would have fended off others, but I didn’t need to do that. I was ready to start my next game, and George Gomez came to me and said it was available and if I was interested. I jumped on instantly even though the schedule was a bit tight, but it was worth it for such a great title. So it came down to the right time, right place, right theme, the right team.

ARG: Are you a fan of the TV series? If so, what did you think of season two’s conclusion?
BE: Huge fan. I think it’s the best put-together Star Wars show to date. It’s a fresh take on the universe with the “space western” feel and all the nostalgic hooks and tie-ins to the existing Star Wars world. I loved the ending with Luke coming back. It was pretty emotional for a lot of people in my house. I think we all knew it was a possibility, but until it happened, we just didn’t know. Even Disney wouldn’t tell us a thing right up to when it aired. It was certainly satisfying to watch. I am sad that it seems like Grogu may not be as big an element in the next season, but he couldn’t have ended up with a better person to train him, so I’m sure we will see more of him in the series. I’m looking forward to where Disney will take the series and all the new series starting up like The Book of Boba Fett! It’s a great time for Star Wars fans!

It absolutely is a great time for Star Wars fans, and an even better time if you are into pinball! Brian’s love of the franchise has definitely translated well into The Mandalorian pinball machine, which on first impressions, looks great and plays well with signature Brian Eddy design elements injected all over the playfield. We can’t wait to play it!

image source: Stern Pinball

This Is The Way – Stern Pinball’s The Mandalorian

May 12, 2021 By ausretrogamer

The Mandalorian has garnered critical acclaim among Star Wars fans and critics alike for good reason, it’s an awesome TV series! Since it’s the hottest property right now, it is no surprise that we find the Emmy award-winning show on all kinds of licensed products. With Stern Pinball’s great working relationship with Lucasfilm and their proven success with their previous Star Wars pinball machines, the two giants have once again collaborated to bring us the hottest streaming TV show in the galaxy into pinball form – introducing The Mandalorian range of pinball machines; the Pro, Premium and Limited Edition.

The Mandalorian Pinball Game Trailer

With a 16 month development cycle, Stern’s Director of Marketing, Zach Sharpe tells us that Brian Eddy (Lead Designer), Dwight Sullivan (Lead Software Engineer) and the rest of the development team have worked hard to cram as much of The Mandalorian storylines into the machine. Zach goes on to say that this game’s development was unique (from previous pinball machine developments) due to the fact that the team was working on the machine while Season 2 was airing. Even though Lucasfilm was tight lipped about Season 2’s storylines, they did provide input to Stern’s team by advising them to leave some “space” whether it be in artwork or on the playfield for something that would be critical to the story they were trying to achieve in The Mandalorian pinball experience – and we are glad that they did!

For those new to The Mandalorian saga, the series is set after the fall of the Galactic Empire and before the emergence of the First Order and follows the travails of a lone gunfighter, The Mandalorian, in the outer reaches of the galaxy, far from the authority of the New Republic. Stern’s new machine emulates the world of Mando by transporting players to a galaxy far, far away as they play as the titular protagonist, teaming up with key allies and protecting Grogu, while battling dangerous enemies and forces across their journey.

So what’s in the three models of The Mandalorian pinball machines that transports the player in this awesome Star Wars universe?

Hold onto your Amban phase-pulse blaster and prepare for battle on the gravity-changing, rotating Encounter upper mini playfield available on the Premium and Limited Edition models. This innovative, motorised rotating playfield is packed with six stand-up targets, lights, and two full-size flippers for high intensity pinball action.

What bounty hunter doesn’t like or watches out for ambushes?! Like the Mandalorian seen in the series, players can be ambushed by enemy forces. A dynamic inner loop shot activates an up/down horseshoe scoop ramp for fast, repeatable precision shooting, creating tense experiences on the Premium and Limited Edition models.

Players can navigate their way to multiball mayhem by hitting a unique hanging uplift target attached to a custom moulded Razor Crest ship – success in hitting the target qualifies a centre ramp shot on the Pro, Premium, and Limited Edition models.

The Mandalorian Pinball – Premium and LE features

The Mandalorian Pinball – Pro model features

Other features of The Mandalorian-inspired pinball machines include a large custom sculpture of Grogu, authentic video and audio from seasons one and two, and exclusive custom speech performed by actor Carl Weathers (Greef Karga). The game includes the iconic title theme song by Ludwig Göransson and stunning hand-drawn artwork by Randy Martinez, one of today’s most popular comic artists.

The limited edition version includes an exclusive full colour mirrored backglass inspired by Beskar armour, iconic custom cabinet artwork, custom high gloss powder-coated pinball armour, a custom designer autographed bottom arch, exclusive inside art blades, upgraded audio system, anti-reflection pinball playfield glass, shaker motor, a sequentially numbered plaque, and Certificate of Authenticity. With only 750 Limited Edition (LE) machines available, we reckon they will sell out fast!

The Mandalorian Pinball – Pro v Premium playfield

As we leave Stern Pinball to bask in their new pinball glory, we ask Zach to tell us what his favourite shot is on this new pinball machine, he tells us, “On the Premium/LE models the dynamic inner loop almost acts like two shots as it can become a ramp shot by activating an up/down horseshoe scoop. It feeds the ball back to the left flipper for repeatable looping opportunities and can get quite intense, especially during ambushes!”.

To say we can’t wait to flip this new pinball machine would be a massive understatement. This is the way!

For those of you in the market for The Mandalorian pinball machines, this is what they’ll cost you**:

Pro Model: $US 6,199
Premium Model: $US 7,799
Limited Edition Model: $US 9,199

** For sales to USA end-users, before any VAT, GST, Sales Tax, Duties, or other taxes.

NOTE: For our Australian readers, please contact Amusement Machine Distributors (AMD) or Zax Amusements for pricing and availability of The Mandalorian pinball machines.

The Mandalorian Pinball – LE model

The Mandalorian Pinball – Premium model

The Mandalorian Pinball – Pro model

Accessories – Razor Crest Knob, Art Blades & Side Armour

Stern Pinball Unveils STRANGER THINGS Pinball! It’s Bitchin’

December 24, 2019 By ausretrogamer

Stern Pinball Inc. announced today their new line of pinball machines celebrating the iconic Netflix series, Stranger Things!

Stranger Things is the comeback game for one of our favourite pinball designers of all time, Brian Eddy. Brian joined Stern Pinball in 2017 after being out of the pinball design game for a couple of decades. Brian is best known for two of the greatest machines of all time, Medieval Madness and Attack From Mars. With that kind of design pedigree, the excitement is quite high for his debut Stern title.

Well, from what we have seen of the three editions (Pro, Premium and Limited Edition), we reckon Brian has given us something magical – mind you, we haven’t played it yet, so once we do, we’ll give you our opinion.

source: Stern Pinball Inc.

Experience the terrifying forces in Hawkins, Indiana that turn this small town “upside down” with supernatural elements, strange sightings, and government secrets. Stranger Things pinball machines will immerse players in a search to unravel the extraordinary mysteries and secret government experiments taking place at the Hawkins National Laboratory. The gameplay focuses on unlocking the hidden meanings of supernatural events occurring in and around the town, including the appearance of a girl known as “Eleven” with telekinetic abilities. The ball is wild as Mike, Lucas, Dustin, Will, Joyce, and Police Chief Jim Hopper help Eleven close the dimensional gate.

The Pro, Premium, and Limited Edition models all feature distinct hand-drawn art in addition to the custom sculpted, interactive Demogorgon bash toy, guarded by drop targets and a rotating ramp. All models include two hideout ball scoops, a Demodog spinner, three custom ramps, and game rules that will transport players into the Upside Down.

The Premium and Limited Edition models feature a first ever video projector that displays images and animations directly on the playfield, creating dramatic interactions with gameplay action. The center of the playfield features a unique ramp that doubles as a screen and leads the player into a direct battle with the Demogorgon. These models also feature a new Eleven themed “telekinetic” magnetic ball lock.

As mentioned already, we’ll let you know what we think of Stranger Things pinball once we flip it – so stay tuned!

source: Stern Pinball Inc.

Attack From Mars Pinball Promo Video – It’s deliciously cheesy

June 24, 2019 By ausretrogamer

You all know how much we love the Attack From Mars pinball machine – we love it so much that we jumped on-board and bought the Attack From Mars Remake back in 2017.

This machine is one of those timeless classics which always comes up in many ‘top pinball machines of all time’ lists. Our interest is always piqued whenever we find information or other content about this game, so when we came across the original promo video, we thought we’d share it with you all. The promo video is just as cheesy as the actual theme, which makes it perfect!

source: Jan van den Munckhof

Thrill Of The Chase: Attack From Mars Remake

January 11, 2018 By ausretrogamer

image source: Chicago Gaming Company

It’s not often that the stars align for us, but when they do, oh boy it’s exciting!

Speaking of celestial bodies, we have always had a fondness for space and the cosmos at large. We are fascinated with our planetary brethren in the family of the solar system, especially that red planet not too far away from us and its inhabitants.

So what the hell has space and Martians got to do with this thrill of the chase? Glad you asked! Put simply, when you mix pinball with Mars and its Martians invading our little blue marble, you get a very special and top rated pinball machine – Attack From Mars (AFM)!

This is no ordinary AFM though, it’s Chicago Gaming Company’s ‘Remake’, which comes in three different editions – Classic, Special and super duper Limited Edition. With the feature list as long as our arm (our arms are long!) on the Limited Edition, like the jaw-dropping 19¼” XL HD colour display that has to be seen to be believed, shaker motor, enhanced DCS sound system, cabinet side mirrors, RGB lighting to name just a few, this machine was always going to tickle our fancy.

Naturally, we gravitated to the fully blinged Attack From Mars Remake Limited Edition (AFMR LE) version! We have never been one for pinball toppers, but the custom Doug Watson one on our AFMR LE is absolutely damn awesome! Doug Skor and the gang at CGC should be immensely proud of producing yet again a beautiful and faithful classic pinball machine.

We sourced our brand new in box AFMR LE from the Australian distributor, Mr. Pinball. We were kept up to date on the freight by keeping track of the Maersk Line ship that was carrying our precious cargo. The container landed in Melbourne in late December, giving us the rare opportunity to have the machine up and ready for family and friends to enjoy for Christmas! Oh yeah, she was quite heavy, so thank you to Lucas Bardin from Bayside Pinball Club for delivering the machine and Stacey ‘Dr Curlytek’ Borg for helping us set it up – you guys rock!

As you may have already guessed, this is a very special machine which we love and are thrilled to have in our ausretrogamer fun factory. If you ever get the chance to play one of these Remakes, do yourself a favour, have a go, they will give you an enormous endorphin rush!

Off the shipping container and ready to go home!