Why Stern’s Pokémon Flipper Is a Game‑Changer for Pinball Enthusiasts
Stern Pinball has just unveiled the first official Pokémon‑themed pinball machine, a long‑awaited crossover that brings over 180 Pokémon to the playfield. The focus is on the original 151 creatures, giving fans a nostalgic trip through the franchise’s early days.
Three Distinct Versions for Different Playstyles
The modern flipper will be released in three versions:
- Pro model – Designed for arcade halls and commercial venues.
- Premium model – Tailored for home leverage, it adds an animatronic Poké‑ball and an extra vortex loop on the left ramp.
- Limited Edition – A collector’s dream, capped at 750 units worldwide and packed with upgraded components.
This tiered approach mirrors a growing trend in the pinball market: offering a basic arcade‑ready version alongside a feature‑rich home edition and an ultra‑limited run for collectors.
Why It Took 30 Years to Arrive
Despite Pokémon’s three‑decade‑long global presence, this is Stern’s first official Pokémon flipper. The article notes the surprise at the lengthy development timeline, sparking conversation among fans about licensing and technical challenges that may have delayed the project.
Did You Know?
Even though the Pokémon franchise celebrated its 30th anniversary, the pinball version arrives just as the hobby is experiencing a resurgence in both arcade and home settings.
Pro Tips for New Owners
Start with the Premium model if you want the full Pokémon experience at home – the animatronic Poké‑ball adds a visual flair that enhances the theme.
Where to Find the Machine
For those looking to locate a Stern Pokémon flipper near them, pinballmap.com provides a searchable database of pinball locations worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many Pokémon appear in the game?
- Over 180 Pokémon are featured, with the primary focus on the original 151.
- What are the differences between the three models?
- The Pro model is arcade‑oriented, the Premium model adds home‑friendly features like an animatronic Poké‑ball, and the Limited Edition is a collector’s item limited to 750 units.
- Why did Stern wait 30 years to release a Pokémon flipper?
- The article points out the surprise at the long wait, suggesting licensing and technical considerations may have contributed.
Join the Conversation
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