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Venom

Too Much Spider-Man Recently?

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By: D.C. Cutler, U.S.A.

When I was watching “Monday Night Football” on ESPN, I saw an extended trailer for the video game “Marvel’s Spider-Man 2.” The gameplay looked magnificent as Miles Morales and Peter Parker are fighting Venom on the streets of New York City. However, I didn’t feel that excited about it. Don’t get me wrong, the game looks great, but I think I’m just getting burnt out on Spider-Man for now.

The last two Spider-Man films have been classics. “Spider-Man: Across the Universe,” released this summer, is considered one of the best Spider-Man films ever made. And the same can be said for “Spider-Man: No Way Home,” released in December 2021. The films were brilliant. Every scene in “No Way Home” and “Across the Universe” had cinematic gravitas. One major death in “No Way Home” had the dramatic heft of an exceptional drama.

I think “Across the Universe” is a lock for Best Animated Film at the Academy Awards in March. There’s even an outside chance that the animated film could be nominated for Best Picture. Both films received critical acclaim, and rightfully so. For some reason, after watching “Across the Universe” in a theater, I said to myself, “That’s enough Spider-Man for a little while.”

But Insomniac Games’ “Marvel’s Spider-Man 2,” which has been in development for years, is coming out at the end of the month, on October 20th.

If we keep getting terrific Spider-Man stories on our PS5 or in theaters, I think that’s terrific, but a slight pause in the web slinger would be kind of nice. Another Tom Holland Spider-Man film is in-development, according to IMDb. We’ll probably get “Spider-Man 4: Home…something” at the end of 2024 or ’25. I may skip that one in the theater and wait for its release on streaming.



image source: supplied

Stern Pinball and Marvel Unleash Venom Pinball!

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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

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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.