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Beatles

gameactive88 mentionsFirst seen Aug 7, 2018Last seen Mar 17, 2026

Profile

The Beatles is a licensed pinball machine manufactured by Stern Pinball, released in 2018 as a premium remake celebrating The Beatles' 1964 first US visit. Designed by Joe Kamenkow with significant licensing investment, the game features tiered pricing models (Pro/Premium/LE/Diamond/Platinum variants), modern LED technology, and streamlined single-level design with strong audio feedback. The game achieved notable market presence despite ultra-premium pricing that limited accessibility, and has become a sought-after collector's item appearing in both arcade venues and private collections.

Aliases

Beatles LE

Relationships

  • designedJoe KamenkowJoe Kamenkow designed The Beatles pinball machinemedium
  • manufacturesStern Pinball Inc.Stern Pinball manufactured The Beatles pinball machinemedium
  • affiliated_withRachel BessRachel Bess contributed to rules design for The Beatlesmedium
  • affiliated_withChristopher FranchiChristopher Franchi provided artwork for The Beatlesmedium
  • affiliated_withGeorge Gomez

Facts

  • achievementSuccessfully impressed skeptical players like Keith Elwinhighfrom 2019
  • attributeLicensed Beatles IP from 1964 edition celebrating Beatles' first US visithighfrom 2019
  • attributeRemake or re-thing of classic gamehighfrom 2018
  • attributeTiered pricing with Pro, Premium, LE, Diamond, and Platinum editionshighfrom 2018
  • attributeMillion-dollar licensehighfrom 2018
  • attributePinball machine by Stern Pinballhighfrom 2018

Claims (10)

  • factualhigh

    Beatles pinball can toggle off magnetic saves to emulate classic pinball mechanics

    Source: Host 1 (personal experience with machine)#010.5 Music Pins Pt 2: Our Top 5 Music Pins
  • factualmedium

    Beatles licensing deal set precedent at $1 million upfront (groundbreaking at the time)

    Source: Christopher FranchiThe Super Awesome Pinball Show - Ep. 39 George Gomez Pt. 1
  • opinionmedium

    Beatles toppers are exclusive to Flippin' Out Pinball stream and not widely available after current stock depletes

    Source: Zach MenyThe Beatles Pinball w/ Zach Meny
  • factualhigh

    Beatles Gold editions are selling for approximately $8,000 in the secondary market

Recent Mentions (88)

  • Pinball machine Zahler dislikes

    Dirty Pool Podcast - Ep28 - Jason Zahler - The World's Best Pinball PlayerMar 17, 2026
  • Modern pinball machine; described as simple to learn; recommended to new collectors; Jeff Teolis owns one

    Ep 33: Big Flip TheoryMay 6, 2021
  • Pinball machine; Martin owns; wife liked the theme; acquired via trade-in of home-use Austin Powers

    Tribe Multiball with Tim and Rachel, Episode 20: Pinball Junk DrawerDec 4, 2021
  • Stern game; reskin of Sea Witch; art by Franchi; discussed as comparison for potential Harry Potter layout approach

    Episode 77: The Great Emu War of 1932! And other things pinball...Oct 22, 2020
  • Stern pinball machine with bright glowing playfield, used in Stern Pro Circuit Finals

    Episode 125 – Romper RoomMar 13, 2019
  • Classic pinball machine; integrated as second game variant in Centaur 2.0; has shallow but fun code, commonly used in modern tournaments

    PNP Ep. 535- A Venomous Centaur Goes On A Space Hunt 4 Masters of The Princess Bride!

Contradictions

  • Existing: 1,963 units produced (Episode 79)vsConflicting: 1,964 units produced (Episode 23)
    Unresolved
  • Existing: Single-level design (Episodes 13, 17)vsConflicting: Level-based mode design with progression (Episode 6)
    Unresolved
  • Existing: Production count of 1,963-1,964 unitsvsConflicting: Mention 5 cites 1,963 units for Orange Is The New Black (different game by Joe Kaminkow), conflating two separate games
    Resolved
    kept_existing · Mar 2, 2026
  • Existing: Stern game (Episodes 0, 2, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 18, 19)vsConflicting: Jersey Jack game (Episode 11)

Related Glossary Terms

No linked glossary terms

George Gomez referenced The Beatles as example of streamlined design approach
medium
  • affiliated_withKeith ElwinKeith Elwin tested and approved The Beatles as successful vintage layout updatemedium
  • attributeFast competitive game with ~20 minute play time for top playershighfrom 2025
  • attributeSingle-level pinball game without significant mechanical featuresmediumfrom 2025
  • attributeClassic-style remake with modern flippersmediumfrom 2019
  • attributeSea Witch rules variant created by Deanhighfrom 2025
  • roleArtwork by Christopher Franchihighfrom 2025
  • roleRules design contributed by Rachel Besshighfrom 2025
  • roleDesigned by Joe Kaminkowhighfrom 2018
  • Source: Zach MenyThe Beatles Pinball w/ Zach Meny
  • factualhigh

    Beatles Diamond editions are trading at approximately $15,000 in the secondary market

    Source: Zach MenyThe Beatles Pinball w/ Zach Meny
  • factualhigh

    Beatles was designed in 2018 and modeled after the Sea Witch machine from the late 1970s/early 1980s

    Source: Zach MenyThe Beatles Pinball w/ Zach Meny
  • factualhigh

    Beatles pinball by Jersey Jack sold 1,964 units

    Source: Joe Kaminkow (seminar)Episode 79 – Orange Is The New Black
  • factualhigh

    Beatles license cost approximately $1 million and took multiple years to negotiate

    Source: Joe Kaminkow (mentioned by Sharp)Episode 74 – Zach Sharpe reveals Stern’s Secrets
  • factualhigh

    Dean Grover was the primary coder for Beatles

    Source: Zach SharpEpisode 74 – Zach Sharpe reveals Stern’s Secrets
  • factualhigh

    Beatles reached 40 million followers via official Beatles Facebook page vs. Stern's 185,000

    Source: Zach SharpEpisode 74 – Zach Sharpe reveals Stern’s Secrets
  • Jul 17, 2023
  • Gomez-designed pinball game; available on location at Spin It Records in Moncton; praised for spinner sound package and spinners modes

    PNP Ep. 504- Bond Stream + 2k Topper + Expo PINTERN+ FlippinTheScriptOct 22, 2022
  • Stern pinball machine; music theme; only 1,966 units initially produced; weak sales; Stern ran second production order; owned by Scott Larson

    Ep 74: 100k by Christmas?! with Zach MenyDec 10, 2021
  • Stern pinball game; gold edition delivered to Rock Fantasy venue on Thursday; subject of speculation about CES announcement alongside Munsters.

    Episode 123 – ClusterVUK 2, The QuickeningJan 3, 2019
  • High-priced pinball machine ($8,500+ for Gold model) based on The Beatles; plays well but brutally difficult due to missing post rubbers

    Episode 121 – Ashley’s AlleyDec 20, 2018
  • Stern LE; unsold inventory (3-4 units at distributor); most expensive license in history; layout reused from Keith Elwin's design; underperformed sales expectations

    Episode 122 – Baseball Bat to a Boxing MatchDec 26, 2018
  • Stern pinball machine; demo unit at Stern; Ken and Bill's surprise favorable impression; art by Christopher Franchi

    Episode 35 - The Super FanJan 22, 2019
  • Stern pinball title rumored to be in pipeline; allegedly re-themed Sea Witch; potentially Kapow title

    Episode 17 - Make Pinball Great AgainOct 10, 2018
  • Forthcoming Stern/Kapow pinball title; rumored to be Sea Witch playfield re-theme with potential spinning disc addition

    Episode 18 - I Heard a RumorOct 16, 2018
  • Pinball machine with scoring animations designed to homage Captain Fantastic; preferred by Bill over Primus; recent release

    Episode 26 - Pinball Conspiracy TheoryDec 4, 2018
  • Newly revealed Stern pinball machine with Sea Witch-based layout, EM-style theme, period-correct artwork by Christopher Franchi, and notably lacking a coin door

    Episode 20 - Monkey See, Monkey DoOct 30, 2018
  • Stern release that hosts initially underestimated but found impressive after deeper play; exemplifies hype cycle reversal pattern

    Episode 40 - Eat, Sleep, Bet PinballFeb 27, 2019
  • Stern Pinball classic remake with expensive licensing; George explained costly components and licensing fees; improved shot flow over original

    Ep 71 - Nuggets with George GomezSep 26, 2019
  • Stern Pinball retheme of Sea Witch; initially dismissive but appreciated after hands-on experience

    Episode 48 - Just Play The GameApr 16, 2019
  • Music-themed pinball game; Chuck considers it a great pin

    Ep 53: Chowder LeagueMar 25, 2022
  • Game discussed in solid-state classification context; Carl questions why it wouldn't qualify while TNA does

    Alvin G Mystery Castle Pinball Gameplay Stream - OF DOOM!Jan 9, 2023
  • Pinball machine; hosts purchased a demo unit from Tilt Amusements

    #004 - The Beginner’s Guide to Buying Your First Pinball MachineJul 17, 2025
  • Stern game; Gold variant selling around $6,000 on secondary market; discussed as alternative to Fathom at similar price point

    episode 38 mayday,mayday.May 9, 2021
  • Stern pinball machine; hosts' favorite, described as gorgeous and great shooting

    Pinball Junk Drawer Episode 13Jan 24, 2023
  • Stern title at MGC; surpassed expectations with elegant design and fun left-loop shot repeatability

    Midwest Gaming Classic RecapApr 16, 2019
  • Stern Pinball machine based on The Beatles band, multi-tier pricing ($79.99 Gold, $25,000 Diamond), designed by Keith Elwin, significant industry discussion

    Episode 116 – Freezing in FloridaNov 13, 2018
  • Stern pinball title mentioned as example of re-released classic IP

    Ep 19: Fight NightOct 21, 2020
  • New pinball machine with yellow/gold artwork; featured on Head to Head Pinball Podcast; not yet played by Ron at time of recording

    Episode 117 – The Final CountdownNov 20, 2018
  • Recently acquired pinball machine in gold version; host received unit and replaced X-Men with it

    Ep 70: The Return of GOATzilla with Keith ElwinOct 11, 2021
  • Spooky pinball with pastel, vintage-looking cabinet art by Christopher Franchi; Mike finds it looks faded

    #006 Pinball Art Hot Takes: What Rules, What Stinks, and Why It MattersJul 24, 2025
  • Stern Pinball game, part of host's personal collection/preferred machines

    Stranger Things LE Pinball Gameplay with Zach Part 2Apr 21, 2020
  • Pinball machine at Golf n Stuff in rotation

    Tucson Pinball Podcast – Episode 67 – Disaster StrikesFeb 23, 2023
  • Pinball machine in hosts' collection; discussed as beautiful out-of-box; subject of subwoofer mod consideration

    Pinball Junk Drawer Episode 23Jun 10, 2023
  • Stern Pinball machine featuring Beatles-themed rules with modes, multiball, spinners, and a notorious center spinning disc; featured in tournament match

    Pinball Expo 2019 Flip Out Tournament Playoffs - Featured Match #2Aug 5, 2020
  • Hypothetical/rejected pinball machine project; Sharpe had licensed it for Williams circa 1993 but upper management declined to produce

    Episode 63 – Roger Sharpe tried to save Pinball twiceOct 8, 2018
  • Recent Stern pinball game featuring a modern version of the company's traditional spinning motor design (45 disc spinner)

    Mike Patzke and Vince Patzke - Pinball Expo 2023 - Pinball NewsOct 20, 2023
  • Upcoming Stern Pinball game; rumored to be released before Munsters; subject of million-dollar licensing deal per Joe Kamikow interview

    Episode 72 - Say It's So, JoeOct 8, 2018
  • New limited-run Stern pinball machine with 1,964 unit production; three tier editions (Gold/Platinum/Diamond); re-theme of Sea Witch

    Episode 74 - Beatles BlizzConNov 5, 2018
  • Recent pinball release; repositioned/refined throwback layout; not considered deep code game

    Episode 100 - CentenarianNov 3, 2019
  • Stern pinball machine in hosts' collection; Elvira will be a new playmate alongside this and others

    Pinball Junk Drawer Episode 62 - Merry Christmas 2024, Elvira and Stern VaultDec 25, 2024
  • Recent Stern pinball remake of classic game; George Gomez improved playfield design from original; expensive licensing (eight to nine Beatles songs); cost barrier to producing similar classics line

    FNO Pinball Ep 21: Star Wars The Pin w/ George Gomez (Designer) from Stern Pinball LIVE In StudioSep 24, 2019
  • Stern 2018, featured in Modern Pinball collection

    FLASHBACK: The Closure of Manhattan's Last Big Pinball ArcadeJul 18, 2022
  • Stern pinball remake cited as precedent for dual rule set option (updated and original) applicable to classic game remakes

    Episode 18 :: The Electric Bat CastJul 11, 2024
  • Jersey Jack pinball machine; recommended by hosts as shorter-play modern game suitable for casual/family play

    Episode 27 :: The Electric Bat CastJul 26, 2025
  • Stern Pinball game; replacement unit acquired by Christopher Franchi with node board connectivity issues

    The Super Awesome Pinball Show - S1 E22 - American PinballJan 4, 2021
  • Upcoming licensed pinball machine by Kapow; Sea Witch reskin with spinner; pricing: $10-15k (Pro), $18-25k (Premium), $50k (LE)

    A Bad Case of the SmurfberriesOct 25, 2018
  • Stern Pinball title; referenced as example of minimal licensed track allocation vs. Rush's 16-song package

    BDYETP 65: Rush Pinball Impressions, Multimorphic New Hires, Manufacturer and Game Room UpdatesJan 9, 2022
  • Pinball machine referenced as successful example of single-level, old-school-style layout with modern flippers

    Triple Drain Pinball Podcast Ep 32: Who Is Driving This Bus?!Mar 1, 2023
  • Premium-only title; fantastic game but forgotten by casual players due to lack of pro version for location visibility

    Ep 24: Happy Holidays!Dec 18, 2019
  • Stern game with complex mechanics (11 drop targets, 4 flippers, multiple magnets); used as comparison point for Bond 60th's relative simplicity despite 2x price difference

    Episode 198 – Solid Full RedJan 10, 2023
  • Referenced as comparison for optical spinner mechanism used in Electric Magic toy on Led Zeppelin Premium/LE

    Episode 293: Timmy Page SextonDec 16, 2020
  • Stern pinball game with significant licensing restrictions; Beatles members initially prohibited from speaking; Thompson pitched samples to change licensors' minds; Cousin Brucie recorded as radio announcer; approved by Beatles widows and surviving members.

    Episode 272: Jerry ThompsonAug 2, 2020
  • Jersey Jack premium game; Tremonti notes secondary market pricing prevented his ownership

    Episode 371: A busy Mark TremontiSep 7, 2023
  • Recent George Gomez design based on Sea Witch layout by Mike Kubin; modernized with improved loop shots and 9 Beatles songs

    Episode 185: 2019 Stern Pro Circuit recapMar 15, 2019
  • Pinball machine recently upgraded with new Titans and custom mods by host

    Pinball Junk Drawer Episode 90 - American, Texas And The Curious Case Of The Missing BallJan 29, 2026
  • Stern 2018 (Gold variant); recently acquired by hosts but not on either top 5 list; plays like classic machine with magnetic save toggle option

    #010.5 Music Pins Pt 2: Our Top 5 Music PinsAug 21, 2025
  • Beatles-themed pinball machine in Dutch Pinball Museum collection

    Ekdom in de Morgen op Radio VeronicaFeb 4, 2025
  • Stern Pinball game; received new 'Classic Mode' code update mimicking 1979 Sea Witch scoring rules

    The Pinball Show Ep 108: Bye Buddy, Hope You Find Your Home TeamAug 9, 2022
  • Stern Pinball game; described as the most expensive pinball license ever paid; pricing referenced as comparison for potential Harry Potter costs

    Triple Drain Pinball Podcast Ep 37: Holy Crap, Harry Potter!May 17, 2023
  • Licensed Beatles-themed game by Stern using redesigned Sea Witch layout; debuted at IAPA, launched in NYC and London pop-up store

    Pinball Industry News: November 2018 Re-capDec 2, 2018
  • Stern Pinball game pushed back from Pinball Expo to January 2019 release; potential debut at EAG London show; Kapow title.

    Pinball Industry News: August 2018 Re-capSep 2, 2018
  • Pinball machine by Stern; Petey criticized it, suggesting Wang Chung would have been a better theme

    Episode 189: Pinside PeteyApr 1, 2019
  • Stern Pinball machine based on 1960s Beatles; Keeler won launch tournament in December; game signed by Cousin Brucie; now featured at front of Rock Fantasy retail space

    Episode 231: Stephen Keeler, Rock FantasyNov 9, 2019
  • Stern pinball machine referenced as example; features instant multi-ball opportunity on third ball.

    Episode 233: Part of the Machine, Rock & PinballNov 12, 2019
  • Rumored upcoming Stern pinball license; potential fall or January release date; mentioned by host as speculative

    Episode 147: All about Music City Pinball and NashvilleAug 7, 2018
  • Stern Spike 2 game; ranked 99 on Pinside; throwback playfield variant with higher pricing

    Episode 29 - Modern PinballMay 6, 2024
  • Licensed pinball game referenced as successful throwback; noted to be reskin of Sea Witch; indicates community appetite for theme-driven retro mechanics

    Episode 65 - Die on this Hill: Wheel of FortuneJan 13, 2025
  • Licensed pinball machine recently acquired by High Score Pinball Arcade

    Episode 303: Melissa Cerquin, High Score Pinball Arcade ownerApr 18, 2021
  • Stern pinball machine in Jamie's collection; acquired as upgrade trade from Austin Powers game; considered a good acquisition/upgrade choice

    Pinball Junk Drawer - Episode 79Dec 12, 2025
  • Single-level pinball game; George references as example of streamlined design approach similar to home editions

    Spike 3 and Home Pin with George Gomez | Stern Pinball's Chief Creative OfficerAug 7, 2025
  • Limited edition (1,964 units); $7,800 MSRP; pricing criticized as premium-for-license; distributor inventory remains available

    Ep 23: Rick, Morty, and Star Wars Topper!Dec 6, 2019
  • Stern classic-style remake; Keith initially skeptical but impressed after playing; demonstrates successful vintage layout update with modern flippers

    Ep 12: Keith Elwin!Jul 1, 2019
  • Pinball game created by Joe Kaminkow using $1M personal investment

    Pinball Expo 2025 - What To Expect From Founder Rob BerkSep 5, 2025
  • Single-level pinball game without significant mechs; discussed as example of fun game not needing unnecessary mechanical features

    EP 17 - Were You Fooled By These Pinball Myths?Jan 8, 2026
  • Pinball machine created by Joe Kaminkow with $1 million personal investment; significant achievement in licensing and pinball design history

    Pinball Expo 2025 with Owner Rob BerkSep 26, 2025
  • Jersey Jack game allowing mode selection from first ball; cited as example of not offering multiball immediately to maintain moment scarcity

    The Electric Bat Cast Presents :: Pinpals Episode 1Sep 5, 2025
  • Recent Stern pinball game featuring Sea Witch rules variant created by Dean; fast competitive game (~20 minutes for top players); Rachel Bess contributed to rules design; Christopher Franchi artwork

    Episode 31 :: The Electric Bat CastNov 24, 2025
  • Stern pinball machine; acquired by Jake in Taiwan workshop collection in February

    Episode 428: Pinball in TaiwanOct 4, 2025
  • Hosts' home machine; receiving mod upgrade with Beatles video loop TV

    Pinball Junk Drawer Episode 86 - Lumberjack Relaunch, What's More Annoying Game and a Scottish "Beer"Nov 27, 2025
  • Stern Pinball game; host mentioned being on leaderboard with score just under 5 million on Insider Connected.

    024 - Our Favorite Albums of 2025Dec 1, 2025
  • 2018 Stern studio game; remake/re-thing of classic; million-dollar license; tiered pricing (Pro/Premium/LE/Diamond/Platinum)

    Episode 74 – Zach Sharpe reveals Stern’s SecretsDec 17, 2018
  • Stern licensed pinball machine featuring The Beatles IP

    Stern Pro Circuit ChampionshipFeb 24, 2020
  • Major licensed title released by Stern (1964 edition celebrating Beatles' first US visit)

    Episode 96 – Gary SternJun 17, 2019
  • Praised for level-based mode design and clear audio feedback that communicates progression without visual confirmation

    Episode 84 – Tales from JailMar 18, 2019
  • New Stern release with $15,000 NZD price point, warm white LEDs, Sea Witch-inspired layout; low-res footage shown at IAFA; collector interest tempered by pricing

    Episode 70 – ROTORDAVE has a better Pinball collection than youNov 19, 2018
  • Pinball machine by Joe Kamenkow; 1,963 units produced

    Episode 79 – Orange Is The New BlackFeb 11, 2019
  • Licensed premium title priced at £12,000 in UK; example of extreme pricing Neil uses to illustrate market concerns

    Episode 83 – Neil McRae’s Bright Pinball FutureMar 11, 2019
  • Ultra-premium Stern game priced higher than Elvira; Joe notes nobody in his area bought one, preventing access

    Episode 110 – Bustin’ Makes Me Feel GoodSep 23, 2019
  • Resolved
    accepted_new · Mar 2, 2026
  • Existing: Beatles is a Stern Pinball machinevsConflicting: Episode 11 references Jersey Jack game with mode selection; Episode 12 references example from different manufacturer
    Resolved
    accepted_new · Mar 3, 2026