Stern Pinball has launched a new pinball machine celebrating 30th anniversary, bringing the world of Pokémon to the classic arcade game. Available now, the machine offers a nostalgic and interactive experience for both pinball enthusiasts and Pokémon trainers. The game is offered in three editions – Pro, Premium, and Limited – with the Limited Edition capped at globally.
The Pokémon pinball machine isn’t a digital adaptation; it’s a fully realized, full-size pinball machine built with the craftsmanship Stern Pinball is known for. The playfield is vibrant with Pokémon imagery, incorporating the expected ramps, bumpers, and targets. A prominent Poké Ball feature and an animatronic Pikachu add to the immersive experience, while a screen above the table displays animations during gameplay.
Gameplay revolves around a journey through four distinct biomes – forest, water, mountain, and desert. Players progress by strategically hitting targets to discover, catch, and train Pokémon. The game also incorporates encounters with Team Rocket, triggering a multiball sequence where players must defend Pokémon from capture. Successfully navigating these challenges and accumulating points allows players to engage in Gym Battles against rival Pokémon trainers.
The core loop involves entering a randomly selected biome and utilizing the flippers to interact with the playfield. Players aim to complete objectives within each biome, ultimately unlocking the opportunity to challenge Pokémon Gyms. Mastering all four biomes leads to the Pokémon Arena, culminating in a final showdown against Team Rocket’s leader, Giovanni. This progression system provides a structured, goal-oriented experience beyond simply racking up points.
The Premium and Limited Edition models include an interactive electromagnet designed to introduce an element of unpredictability during battle sequences. This feature, described as adding “chaos” to the gameplay, enhances the thrill and requires players to adapt their strategies on the fly.
Stern Pinball is also integrating its Insider Connected app into the Pokémon experience. This allows players to track the Pokémon they catch across different machines, creating a persistent collection and adding a social dimension to the game. By logging in with an Insider Connected account, players can view their Pokémon roster and compare their progress with others.
Pricing for the Pokémon pinball machine varies depending on the edition. The Pro Edition is priced at $6,999, the Premium Edition at $9,699, and the Limited Edition, with its restricted production run, carries a price tag of $12,999. This pricing structure positions the machine as a premium collectible aimed at dedicated pinball fans and Pokémon enthusiasts willing to invest in a high-end gaming experience.
The release of the Pokémon pinball machine marks Nintendo’s first pinball license in 34 years, highlighting the enduring appeal of both the Pokémon franchise and the classic pinball format. The machine’s features, from the animatronic Pikachu to the biome-based gameplay, are designed to appeal to a broad audience, blending nostalgia with modern interactive elements.
The integration of the Insider Connected app is a notable addition, extending the gameplay experience beyond the physical machine. The ability to track Pokémon collections and potentially compete with other players adds a layer of long-term engagement that is increasingly common in modern gaming. This feature also provides Stern Pinball with valuable data on player behavior and preferences.
The Pokémon pinball machine represents a convergence of two popular entertainment forms. It’s a physical, tactile experience that requires skill and strategy, combined with the beloved characters and world of Pokémon. The varying price points cater to different levels of collector interest, making it accessible to a wider range of fans. The machine is currently available for purchase for home use and is also expected to appear in arcades, bowling alleys, and other locations that feature pinball machines.
