AUSRETROGAMER

Australia's Retro Gaming and Pinball E-Zine

You are here: Home / Archives for pinball

pinball

“If It Bleeds, We Can Play It!” – Predator Pinball Is Coming

By

“If it bleeds, we can play it!” – Predator Pinball Incoming! 🛸💥

June 12 is no ordinary day, folks – it marks 38 years since Arnie first tangled with the galaxy’s deadliest hunter in Predator! And what better way to celebrate than with the possible reveal (on this day) of a brand new Predator pinball machine from our extraterrestrial-obsessed pals at Pinball Brothers?

🎯 We’re calling it now – June 12 could be the day this beast lands! So clear your calendars, polish those flippers, and prep your coins!

According to Pinball Brothers, this isn’t your average pin –

“A brutal wide-body game forged in the heart of a cinematic legend. Built to hunt, The Predator Pinball will throw you into a world of hurt.“

👾 Brutal? Wide-body? World of hurt? YES PLEASE.

If this turns out to be true (which it will be!), we’re looking at a must-play machine that’ll bring 80s action, sci-fi mayhem, and brutal pinball chaos together in one gorgeous cabinet.

Stay frosty, retro gamers – this hunt might begin sooner than you think! 🕹️🔥

 


source: Pinball Brothers

source: supplied

GAME OVER: Brisbane’s Beloved 1UP Arcade Set to Close

By

Retro Arcade Gaming Fans Prepare to Farewell 1UP Arcade

Sad news for retro gaming fans: Brisbane’s iconic 1UP Arcade, the largest dedicated retro arcade in the southern hemisphere, is preparing to shut its doors.

The announcement came earlier this year, when founder and owner Stephen Holmes shared a heartfelt post on Facebook on February 28th, detailing the arcade’s incredible journey — from its humble beginnings to its rise as a community hub, and the immense challenges faced throughout the pandemic and beyond. If you haven’t read Stephen’s full message, it’s well worth your time [link].

Since the news broke, the retro gaming community has been in mourning — and with good reason. Running a small business is hard enough, but operating a venue filled with hundreds of rare, fragile, and painstakingly restored arcade machines is a monumental task. It’s a true labour of love, one that Stephen and his team poured their hearts into.

The story of 1UP Arcade was even featured on the acclaimed documentary Still Standing, showcasing the passion and resilience behind the scenes. (If you haven’t watched it yet, now’s the perfect time.)

Mainstream media also took notice, with A Current Affair airing a segment about the closure on April 23rd, highlighting just how much 1UP meant to Brisbane’s cultural and entertainment landscape.


source: A Current Affair on YouTube

Our thoughts are with Stephen and everyone involved with 1UP Arcade. It’s a massive loss not just for Brisbane, but for the retro gaming world at large.

image source: 1UP Arcade (via Facebook)

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

 

Stepping Back in Time: PAX Aus 2024’s Classic Gaming Area Celebrated the Golden Era of Gaming

By

Reliving the magic of retro gaming with arcade classics, vintage consoles, and amazing pinball machines at PAX Aus 2024’s ultimate nostalgia-filled showcase!

PAX Aus 2024’s Classic Gaming Area was a nostalgic paradise for retro gamers (as it always has been!), offering a thrilling dive into gaming history. The area featured a stunning lineup of vintage arcade cabinets, classic consoles, and pinball machines that transported attendees straight back to the golden age of gaming. From old-school favourites like Rampage and Popeye to lesser-known gems, the collection was a dream for retro enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike.

This year, the focus on pinball was a highlight, with rare and new machines on display and freeplay sessions for anyone to enjoy. The Australian Pinball Museum’s exhibit was back, showcasing unique memorabilia. Another major attraction was the collaboration between Weird and Retro, Press Play On Tape, and other contributors, who created a vibrant, interactive space full of classic gaming and amazing displays!

Attendees could also explore the console freeplay section, where systems like the Atari VCS and Atari 400, NES, Sega Mega Drive, iMac, G4 Cube and the original PlayStation – which were the tip of the nostalgic iceberg of system to play, let gamers relive their childhoods or discover these iconic machines for the first time. The event wasn’t just about playing games but celebrating gaming culture, with a strong sense of community and inclusivity in the air​.

A personal favourite of mine was checking out the amazing array of old school machines that Octamed (aka: Cameron Bonde) had brought to the area for attendees to enjoy. Oh yeah, the museum display cabinets were also full of droolworthy retro goodness! I honestly had to pick my jaw off the floor. But the absolute highlight for us (as always) was catching up with our many wonderful friends, all whom work extraordinarily hard to bring the Classic Gaming Area to life – they all rock!

All in all, the Classic Gaming Area at PAX Aus 2024 was a delightful tribute to the games and systems that shaped the industry, ensuring that retro gaming remains a beloved part of PAX’s annual offerings.

Our Thrilling Retro Adventure at Netherworld

By

“A drinking hole, diner and collection of gaming relics from decades past”

If you’re looking for a time warp with a side of adrenaline, then grab your mates, lace up your sneakers, and head down to Netherworld in Fortitude Valley. This quirky, neon-lit arcade haven is the perfect blend of retro gaming nostalgia and modern-day fun. With an atmosphere that feels like stepping into an alternate dimension, Netherworld is an absolute must for anyone with a love for pinball, classic arcade games, and good times.

Somewhere, over the rainbow, is Netherworld!

The Arcade Wonderland Awaits

Upon walking into Netherworld, you’re instantly transported into a world where video game cabinets hum with excitement, and the ping of pinball machines echoes through the air. The vibe here is part classic arcade, part dive bar, and 100% pure entertainment. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer or just here for the ride, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The centerpiece, of course, is the massive arcade collection. From the legendary Pac-Man to the adrenaline-pumping Street Fighter II Hyper, and even more obscure cult favorites like Puzzle Bobble or Gyruss, the nostalgia will hit you hard. And let’s not forget about the pinball section! A kaleidoscope of flashing lights and metallic clinks, the lineup includes everything from Fun House to the ultra-competitive Foo Fighters pinball. Each game has its own unique vibe, with ramps, bumpers, and challenges that will have you flipping for hours.

Top Games You Can’t Miss:

  • The Addams Family Pinball: With creepy, kooky vibes and plenty of spooky surprises, this machine is a fan favorite. The challenge? Master the multi-ball madness!
  • Donkey Kong: Can you guide Mario up the barrels and rescue the princess? This iconic game will test your old-school platforming skills.
  • Rick & Morty Pinabll: Go on an interdimensional adventure packed with hilarious animations, wild gameplay, and all the zany mischief you’d expect from the infamous duo!
  • Mortal Kombat II: Show off your fighter skills with this ultimate test of reflexes and strategy. It’s “Finish Him” time!
  • Time Crisis II: Team up with a friend and take on the bad guys in this classic shooter game. The foot pedal and recoil action add to the immersive fun!

Not Just Games – A Whole Experience

Netherworld isn’t just about the games, though. It’s a place where pop culture and craft beers come together in harmony. The bar serves up an impressive selection of local brews and specialty cocktails themed after your favorite games. Ever sipped on a “Hadouken” cocktail after a heated round of Street Fighter? Now’s your chance! Pair your drinks with tasty food offerings, from vegan-friendly snacks to juicy burgers. Trust me, their bowls of loaded fries are the ultimate fuel for a gaming marathon.

There’s also a calendar packed with exciting events. Think arcade tournaments, pinball competitions, pub trivia, and even the occasional live gig. Want to test your skills in a more competitive setting? Join one of the pinball leagues or enter a high-stakes showdown for a chance at fame and glory (or at least bragging rights).

The Community Vibes

One of the best parts of Netherworld is its welcoming community. Whether you’re a seasoned pinball wizard or a complete newbie, everyone’s here to have fun. The staff is friendly and helpful, always willing to give tips if you’re stuck on a tricky game or need advice on the best machine for your skill level.

They also host board game nights for those who want to take the action to the tables. From Dungeons & Dragons to party games like Codenames, the variety is as broad as the arcade lineup.

Ready, Set, Play!

Visiting Netherworld is like pressing “start” on an adventure you didn’t know you needed. It’s more than just a venue—it’s an experience. A place where grown-ups can be kids again, and where the spirit of classic gaming lives on in all its pixelated glory.

Whether you’re chasing high scores, discovering the magic of pinball for the first time, or simply enjoying the electric energy of this retro haven, Netherworld promises a day (or night) of unforgettable fun. So, gather your crew, grab some tokens, and prepare for an epic gaming session.

Game over? Not a chance—Netherworld will keep you coming back for more!