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Spike 2

productactive95 mentionsFirst seen Sep 15, 2016Last seen Apr 4, 2026

Profile

Spike 2 is Stern Pinball's previous-generation hardware platform that powered 70+ pinball games over a decade-long production run, including notable titles like Batman '66, Metallica, Guardians of the Galaxy, and Godzilla. It introduced LCD displays and connected gaming capabilities through Insider Connected, establishing Stern's modern pinball ecosystem. While succeeded by Spike 3, Spike 2 games remain in active development with ongoing software updates, though the aging toolset and infrastructure differences prevent backward compatibility with newer hardware.

Aliases

No aliases

Relationships

  • affiliated_withSpike 3Spike 3 is the successor platform to Spike 2, with partial backward compatibility considerationsmedium
  • appears_inVenomVenom is built on the Spike 2 pinball platformmedium
  • manufacturesStern Pinball Inc.Stern Pinball manufactures and develops Spike 2 hardware platformmedium
  • affiliated_withSpike 3Spike 2 is the predecessor platform to Spike 3; provides comparison baseline for feature improvementsmedium
  • affiliated_withInsider Connected

Facts

  • attributeUsed in test fixtures for diagnosticshigh
  • attributePrevious generation platform before Spike 3high
  • attributeNot backward compatible with Spike 3 due to infrastructure differenceshigh
  • attributeGames upgradeable to Spike 3 boardshigh
  • attributeIncludes node boards and addressable RGB lightinghigh
  • attributeCompatible with Insider Connected infrastructurehigh
  • attributeStern's pinball hardware platformhigh

Claims (3)

  • factualmedium

    There is only one remaining Spike 2 game left for Flip n Out to stream in their tutorial series

    Source: Joel EngorthAerosmith Pinball Tutorial (Flip N Out Pinball, 2026)
  • opinionmedium

    Direct video capture from Spike 2 machines is challenging due to video frequency specifications

    Source: Joel EngorthAerosmith Pinball Tutorial (Flip N Out Pinball, 2026)
  • predictionmedium

    Spike 2 platform has discussed but not yet fully implemented internet capabilities

    Source: Jack DangerBatman ‘66 Pinball (0.92) 3.5 BILLION BONUS!

Recent Mentions (95)

  • Stern Pinball's software/hardware platform debuting with Aerosmith, features LCD screen technology

    Aerosmith Pinball Tutorial (Flip N Out Pinball, 2026)Apr 4, 2026
  • Stern's hardware platform launched 2017 with screen inside cabinet; Kurt has 20 of 21 total Spike 2 machines produced (missing Juls)

    Flog #29 De gameroom van Kurt in BelgiëMar 17, 2024
  • Current Stern pinball platform; dominant in UK location venues; proven reliable platform; being succeeded by Spike 3

    The Great British Pinball Podcast Episode 28Sep 1, 2025
  • Stern Pinball's hardware/software platform used in recent releases including Venom

    DPP #81 "Mike Barnard interview! Venom final review!"Nov 10, 2023
  • Stern's modern pinball platform; known for loud power supply fans on early units, improved in later production

    #80 RUSH delivery - The Classic Pinball PodcastMar 22, 2022
  • Stern's current pinball hardware platform; rumored to be phased out for Spike 3

    BREAKING STERN NEWS! A Kaneda Exclusive!Feb 11, 2024

Contradictions

  • Existing: Spike 2 games are not backward compatible with Spike 3 due to infrastructure differencesvsConflicting: Games are upgradeable to Spike 3 boards for backwards compatibility
    Unresolved
  • Existing: Spike 2 games are not backward compatible with Spike 3 due to infrastructure differences (mention 4)vsConflicting: Mention 1 states games are upgradeable to Spike 3 boards for backwards compatibility
    Resolved
    kept_existing · Mar 2, 2026
  • Existing: Spike 2 is Stern's previous generation platform (not compatible with Spike 3)vsConflicting: Mention 23 claims Stargate VPW (a Gottlieb 1995 game) is a Stern hardware platform subject of reverse-engineering, which is factually incorrect - Stargate is a Gottlieb game predating Stern's Spike platforms by decades
    Resolved
    kept_existing · Mar 2, 2026

Related Glossary Terms

No linked glossary terms

Spike 2 compatible with Insider Connected connectivity infrastructure; 17 titles planned for support
medium
  • appears_inMetallicaSpike 2 game featuring node boards and addressable RGB lightingmedium
  • appears_inGuardians of the GalaxySpike 2 platform gamemedium
  • appears_inGodzillaSpike 2 platform game candidate for Spike 3 conversionmedium
  • appears_inWalking DeadRecent Spike 2 title with new topper designmedium
  • affiliated_withStar Wars Fall of the EmpireSpike 3 game used as comparison point for Spike 2 capabilities; highlights processing power, memory, and display improvementsmedium
  • affiliated_withGeorge GomezStern's Chief Creative Officer who discussed Spike 2 platform longevity and design considerationsmedium
  • attributeSupports 70+ gameshigh
  • attributeLCD-based pinball operating systemhigh
  • statusEnormous installed basehigh
  • statusGames remain in active development status for potential updateshigh
  • statusNew service menu rolled out to existing titleshighfrom 2025-05-02
  • Stern's next-generation pinball hardware platform; expected to feature HD displays and advanced lighting; focal point of innovation hopes for competitive advantage vs Jersey Jack

    Episode 39: Is there a lack on Innovation in modern pinball?Aug 16, 2025
  • Stern's control system; praised for quality and design

    Episode 812: "Kaneda's Candid Take on Stern"Jun 19, 2023
  • Current Stern platform used in Jaws. Will face obsolescence when Spike 3 launches, though debate exists about severity of perceived gap vs. Spike 1-to-2 transition.

    Kaneda & Gengiz Discuss JAWS - AUDIOJan 7, 2024
  • Current Stern platform for Godzilla, Deadpool, Star Wars; inventory being managed for transition to Spike 3

    More Metallica Remake infoJun 27, 2024
  • Stern Pinball's previous hardware generation with 15.6-inch LCD screen; backward-compatible backglass with Spike 3

    Stern Pinball Star Wars Fall Of The Empire Gameplay Review - Is It Good?Sep 12, 2025
  • Platform/hardware generation; Aerosmith was first LCD game, reference point for post-COVID pricing shifts

    Episode 127 TribeMember MadnessSep 26, 2022
  • Stern's pinball platform hosting most recent games; host claims 26 of ~35 games over 10 years are quality with only 4-5 poor titles

    Episode 122 Tim Lee Sucks at Toy StoryJun 21, 2022
  • Stern Pinball's second-generation hardware platform, debuted 2016; decentralized node-based architecture; subject of entire technical presentation

    Exploring the Spike 2 System with Kyle Spiteri and The Pinball PirateMay 29, 2025
  • Stern pinball hardware platform; associated with prominent fan noise that Gonzo previously complained about in videos; D&D appears to use improved cooling/fan design

    First Look! Stern’s Dungeons & Dragons: The Tyrant’s Eye Pinball Machine Limited EditionMay 23, 2025
  • Stern Pinball hardware platform; currently not emulatable in Visual Pinball due to technical constraints

    Virtual Pinball using Oculus Quest + LinkJan 26, 2020
  • Hardware platform used in modern Stern machines; noted as being lighter than older systems

    Unboxing a pinball machine: Aerosmith Pinball MachineApr 11, 2017
  • Stern Pinball's current hardware platform used in Kong; architecture being incrementally upgraded with component improvements but no major overhaul to Spike 3

    Episode 30: King Kong Pinball Is Finally Here… But Does It Deliver?Apr 16, 2025
  • Stern's pinball hardware platform used by Metallica and recent games; Kaneda notes policy to not remake Spike 2 LEs despite general LE remake precedent

    Episode 1014: "The Agony and Ecstasy of Metallica R LE"Oct 21, 2024
  • Control board platform in Stranger Things machine; documentation indicates capacitor requirements vary by node board configuration

    This EPIC MOD Will Make You Fall in Love With Pinball!Feb 10, 2022
  • Stern Pinball CPU platform that Pinwoofer amplifier attaches to; used in recent Stern machines including Godzilla

    Is this the BEST version of Godzilla Pinball?!Aug 23, 2024
  • Stern Pinball's second-generation hardware platform; this review focuses on Spike 2 compatibility

    The Ultimate Stern Pinball Audio Upgrade - PinWoofer PowerWave Super Kit!Sep 13, 2024
  • Stern's LCD control system introduced on Batman 66; new technology that contributed to extended development timeline

    Episode 73 – Inside the mind of Lyman SheatsDec 10, 2018
  • Stern's LCD-based pinball platform; Insider Connected available on entire Spike 2 game catalog

    Godzilla Pinball Reveal!Sep 18, 2021
  • Stern Pinball hardware platform used for Batman '66; features LCD display; essentially eliminates storage and memory constraints compared to older systems.

    Batman ‘66 Pinball w/ Lyman Sheats and crew. Code V. 1.0!Dec 6, 2018
  • Hardware platform/control system for Stern pinball machines covered in this tutorial

    HOW TO REMOVE A PLAYFIELD FROM A SPIKE 2 STERN PINBALL MACHINEApr 4, 2021
  • Stern's pinball software platform; Jack discussed internet capabilities with Stern team; platform used in recent releases

    Batman ‘66 Pinball (0.92) 3.5 BILLION BONUS!Jun 1, 2018
  • Stern hardware platform targeted by Insider Connected ecosystem; will receive hardware retrofits and software updates

    Stern Pinball's Trojan Horse?Oct 6, 2021
  • Stern hardware platform; PinWoofer kit includes Spike 2 Dynamic LED Speaker Light Kit and components compatible with Spike 2

    My First Pinwoofer Experience/ReviewOct 3, 2024
  • Control board architecture referenced; PIN Stadium Neo compatibility mentioned as working with any Spike 2 system

    How to Install the Pin Stadium Neo: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles EditionSep 1, 2020
  • Earliest Stern hardware platform eligible for Insider Connected QR code kit integration

    Stern Pinball's Trojan Horse? Part TwoOct 7, 2021
  • Stern's hardware platform; Insider Connected will launch on Spike 2 LCD games

    Stern Pinball Insider Connected Overview and Thoughts (Ep.63)Sep 8, 2021
  • Stern Pinball's hardware platform on which Metallica Remastered is built

    Metallica Tutorial - Pinball GuideNov 9, 2025
  • Stern's pinball system platform, has lighting limitations compared to Jersey Jack's system; Spike 3 expected to be next evolution

    Episode 11: “X-Men vs. Avatar - FIGHT!”Sep 16, 2024
  • Stern's control platform; Cary notes in-game commercials haven't been seen in Spike 2 before now

    This Proves the Pinball Market has Shifted...Nov 14, 2023
  • Stern's hardware platform (LCD backbox panel) receiving Insider Connected integration

    STERN REVEALS ONLINE STRATEGYAug 26, 2021
  • Stern Pinball's electronic control platform; powers Metallica Remastered

    METALLICA REMASTERED REVEALEDOct 16, 2024
  • New backbox board demonstrated by Gary Stern; featured new LCD panel design and backbox lighting

    EAG INTERNATIONAL 2017Jan 19, 2017
  • New Stern control board with enhanced memory and processing power; expected to launch with Batman 66

    BATMAN 66 FEATURESSep 15, 2016
  • Stern pinball system referenced for startup time comparison; slower than AtGames Legends 4K (~30-60 seconds)

    AtGames Legends Pinball 4K Hands On DiscussionMar 18, 2024
  • Stern Pinball's technology platform; used in Black Knight: Sword of Rage and other modern releases

    I Traded My Uncanny X-Men Pinball for Black Knight – Big Mistake?Jan 31, 2025
  • Current Stern hardware platform; powers recent games (Deadpool, Godzilla, Mandalorian, John Wick); features LCD screens

    Inside Look: Stern Tour Interview with Mike VinikourJun 29, 2024
  • Stern Pinball's second-generation hardware platform; audio system described as underpowered compared to JJP equivalents

    Ultimate Jersey Jack Pinball Audio Upgrade - PinWoofer PowerWaveJ Super Kit!Jul 25, 2025
  • Second-generation Stern control platform supported by PinWoofer

    BDYETP 72: $2k Toppers, Lawlor Retires, Pinball as a Gateway + Guest Dan Dean from PinWooferNov 4, 2022
  • Stern platform with LED screen, expression lights; transitioning to Spike 3; Don speculates on inventory management strategy

    DPP #128 "Shark week is back! So is location play!"Jun 10, 2024
  • Stern's LCD game platform; all 17 titles eligible for Insider Connected integration (7 at launch, all 17 by end of 2021)

    The Pinball Show Ep 73: Getting Connected InsiderAug 30, 2021
  • Pinball control platform; Metallica LE ported to this system; requires significant light choreography rework vs. original Spike

    Triple Drain Pinball Podcast Ep 57: We Have Killed ALL Pinball Sales & Expo RecapNov 2, 2024
  • Stern platform spanning 18 games receiving coordinated OS updates for connectivity, home team features, and Wi-Fi improvements

    Pinball Magazine & Pinball News PINcast September 2022 recapOct 4, 2022
  • The Great British Pinball Podcast Episode 21Feb 16, 2025
  • Previous Stern hardware generation. Compared unfavorably to Spike 3 screen quality and color representation. Fall of the Empire marks transition away from this platform.

    "We Played it" | Star Wars: Fall of the Empire Reaction | Stern’s New Spike 3 Pinball ft. Don & JeffSep 12, 2025
  • Previous Stern hardware platform featuring traditional plywood cabinet construction now being sunsetted

    DPP #220 "This Old (pinball) House!"Dec 10, 2025
  • Stern's current pinball operating system; no public communication about its technical limitations; subject of lack of transparency in marketing Spike 3 successor

    Dirty Pool Podcast - Ep11 - Paris Pinball Addict: How The Pinball Industry Needs To ChangeJul 1, 2025
  • Stern Pinball hardware platform; Expression lighting system with armor reportedly cheaper to produce than Spike 2 itself; Jaws 50th believed to be final Spike 2 release

    Kaneda's Pinball Podcast Saturday Morning Spectacular Dec 13Dec 14, 2025
  • Stern's second-generation hardware platform powering LCD pinball games; features iMX6 ARM processor, node-based architecture, modular design

    Should you buy a NEW Stern Pinball Machine? - Pinball Expert and Chief Creative Officer George GomezOct 2, 2020
  • Stern Pinball's electronic control system platform used as technological foundation for Metallica Remastered

    Metallica Remastered Pinball Presented by Stern PinballOct 16, 2024
  • Stern's current gaming platform; future refreshes will be Pro/Premium only

    The Pinball Show Ep 144: The Big Jaws EpisodeJan 6, 2024
  • Hardware platform for Metallica Remastered; not upgraded to Spike 3 despite remaster concept

    The Pinball Show Ep 163: Metallica Remastered, Alice In Wonderland, Space Hunt, Harry Potter, Tony Hawk, Saw, Ninja Eclipse, & More!Oct 22, 2024
  • Stern Pinball computer system using modular node boards; explained in depth by George Gomez in recent YouTube video; firmware improvements addressing flash memory concerns

    The Pinball Show Ep 32: The Amish - A Lifestyle BrandOct 5, 2020
  • Stern Pinball's LCD-based system; uses low-voltage video output; streamers have been seeking direct HDMI capture solutions for over a year

    The Pinball Show Ep 26: Inside PinballAug 23, 2020
  • Stern's pinball platform; Venom runs on it; mentioned in context of capability for interactive tutorials.

    Triple Drain Pinball Podcast Ep 43: Our Top 5 Games & Expo Prep!Oct 12, 2023
  • Previous Stern hardware generation; Don suggesting Spike 3 cabinet redesign may accelerate adoption as existing Spike 2 collections become 'aesthetically outdated'

    We are Pinball WAP Episode 3 Stern John Wick LE WWE LE & Data East Pinball machinesJun 21, 2024
  • Stern's hardware platform; speakers suggest alternative strategy of selling Spike 2 Pro machines directly to Costco rather than home versions

    We Are Pinball #9 "Avatar and gangsta rap!"Aug 29, 2024
  • Stern Pinball hardware platform; 25+ games compatible with Insider Connected retrofit kits.

    Episode 48 - Insider ConnectedSep 16, 2024
  • Stern's second-generation hardware platform (2017+); enabled LCD displays and continuous code updates

    Episode 29 - Modern PinballMay 6, 2024
  • Current Stern hardware platform; in use for 10+ years; supports Batman 66, Metallica, and 70+ other games; not limiting factor for design but toolset aging

    Spike 3 and Home Pin with George Gomez | Stern Pinball's Chief Creative OfficerAug 7, 2025
  • Stern's hardware platform used for Metallica Remastered; features node boards, addressable RGB lighting (0-255 values), LCD displays

    Ep 152: Remastering Metallica Code with Raymond DavidsonNov 7, 2024
  • Stern hardware platform; used for X-Men; benchmark for ranking analysis

    Ep 147: Hands On Uncanny XmenSep 24, 2024
  • Stern's hardware platform showing 9.8% overall depreciation; focus category for market analysis

    This Month's Pinball Market Jan 2025 | Stern's Spike 2Jan 1, 2025
  • Previous-generation Stern platform; referenced for component comparison, audio harness compatibility testing, and existing installed base

    Star Wars: FotE by Stern Pinball. Unboxing Uncut. Streamed from Raccoon City Pinball.Oct 8, 2025
  • Previous generation Stern hardware platform that Star Wars Spike 3 significantly improves upon in processing power, memory, and display capabilities

    Stern Launches Star Wars Fall of the Empire PinballSep 12, 2025
  • Previous Stern hardware platform; compatible games likely to receive Spike 3 conversions if in continued production; Godzilla/Jaws candidates identified

    DPP #230 "Pokemon LE! Did you catch one?!"Feb 17, 2026
  • Stern hardware platform; subject of reverse-engineering projects by VPW and PinCreds

    Stargate VPW (Gottlieb 1995)Oct 10, 2025
  • Hardware platform for games in tournament; Guardians of the Galaxy runs on Spike 2

    Godzilla Super7 Stern Tournament - Free Gold Watch 9/5/2025Sep 8, 2025
  • Previous Stern Pinball cabinet design; relied on miter cuts, glue, and human assembly consistency; baseline for Spike 3 comparison

    Pinball Veterans vs Spike 3: Here's WhyDec 17, 2025
  • Stern's previous hardware platform; games remain in active development with no planned Spike 3 transitions

    Another new game from Stern in 2026?Dec 23, 2025
  • Previous Stern platform; used as comparison point for screen quality and audio capabilities; games still in active development

    DPP #205 "Fall of the Empire: A buyers guide"Sep 12, 2025
  • Stern pinball hardware platform that Batman '66 was first to implement with LCD display

    Wizards & Warriors Episode Presents "MasterClass" - Batman '66 (Stern) ft. Roland NadeauDec 16, 2025
  • Previous Stern hardware platform; compared to Spike 3 regarding feature improvements without price increases.

    Episode 50: Is Stern Pinball a victim of its own success?Jan 20, 2026
  • Stern's LCD-based pinball operating system; era being analyzed for games that will achieve classic status in 10 years

    EP 9 - Modern Day Pinball Classics?Sep 25, 2025
  • Previous Stern platform; expression lighting upgrade more difficult than Spike 3 implementation

    Star Wars and Walking Dead | Stern Pinball's Latest CreationsDec 5, 2025
  • Current platform for recent Stern games; hosts question if Spike 3 upgrades justify remasters.

    Episode 252 - A Warburton SuitAug 17, 2025
  • Stern pinball hardware platform; Black Knight Sword of Rage discussed as exemplary release

    Episode 433: Bird Arzoumanian of Pinball PeopleFeb 8, 2026
  • Previous Stern platform; compared to Spike 3 for processing power, memory, screen size, fan noise, and audio capabilities

    PNP 640- 5 Surprising Insights Post Star Wars Gameplay Vid+ EXPO UPDATE!Sep 17, 2025
  • Stern's hardware platform enabling independent headphone/master volume control and advanced audio management

    EP16 Eric EdwardsFeb 8, 2026
  • Previous Stern platform; serves as comparison baseline for Spike 3 upgrades

    #014 Star Wars Fall of the EmpireSep 12, 2025
  • Stern's pinball platform; new service menu will be rolled out to all existing Spike 2 titles

    Stern Tech School: New Service Menu NavigationMay 2, 2025
  • Stern's pinball machine platform; new service menu exists, full rollout pending team availability

    Ask Jack Anything: Episode 3Dec 9, 2025
  • Previous Stern platform; implied as similar in core design to Spike 3

    Episode 1156: "Stern is The Walking Dead"Nov 5, 2025
  • Stern pinball platform; LCD/connected generation; new Walking Dead topper uses this platform

    Ask Jack Anything: Episode 4Dec 31, 2025
  • Stern pinball hardware platform; referenced as compatible with Insider Connected connectivity infrastructure

    Drinks With Jack Featuring Gary Stern & Seth Davis (Part 3)Dec 22, 2025
  • Stern's hardware platform; 17 total titles planned for Insider Connected support by year-end

    Stern Insider Connected - Explained by George GomezOct 19, 2021
  • Previous generation Stern platform with enormous installed base. Not backward compatible with Spike 3 due to infrastructure differences.

    Drinks with Jack Featuring George Gomez (Part 2)Jan 9, 2026
  • Stern's pinball control platform; test fixture uses SPIKE 2 runtime environment for diagnostics

    Stern Tech School: Jurassic Park T-Rex RemovalOct 5, 2024
  • Stern's hardware platform; games remain in active development status for potential updates

    Ask Jack Anything: Episode 5Feb 2, 2026
  • Previous Stern platform; games are upgradeable to Spike 3 boards for backwards compatibility

    Ask Jack Anything: Episode 1Sep 24, 2025
  • Existing: Spike 2 is the previous generation platform before Spike 3vsConflicting: Spike 2 is described as the current platform in Episode 252
    Resolved
    kept_existing · Mar 2, 2026