Walking Dead is a pinball game originally designed by John Borg and Lyman Sheets for Stern Pinball in 2014. In 2025, Stern released Walking Dead Remastered, a Spike 3 platform remake featuring updated artwork, mechanical improvements (barn door, bicycle ramp, Well Walker scope), new voice talent, and Expression Lighting, though it launched with incomplete code and mixed market reception. The remaster was produced in 500 LE units at $12,999 and faced significant community criticism regarding design choices, cabinet materials, and perceived rush in development.
Walking Dead was the last major manufacturer two-flipper game release, released 12 years ago (~2010)
The Walking Dead remake is just as difficult and brutal as the original version
The speaker lights on the Walking Dead unit are not functioning due to a loose connector
The Walking Dead remake's skill shot now starts from the bottom, which differs from the original version
Referenced as example of Stern's disconnect between artwork and fan expectations for IP
Stern remaster; mentioned as part of pre-Sonic releases; context suggests recent or imminent release
Stern pinball machine in arcade; described as 'everybody loves'
Stern Pinball remaster of the 2014 Walking Dead title, released recently with significant launch issues
Stern Pinball machine based on The Walking Dead franchise; released late 2024 (September/November); 500 LE units at $12,999; features updated artwork, mechanical improvements (barn door, bicycle ramp, Well Walker scope), new voice talent, Expression Lighting; currently at 0.90 code version
Stern Pinball remaster; LE available for ~$14,000; 500 units total production with strong sales momentum
[Triage: The remaster initially released with incomplete code, but subsequent field feedback and updates led to it being considered 'rock solid,' representing a status change over time.]
[Triage: The Limited Edition Walking Dead game pricing decreased over time as inventory was sold down, reflecting market dynamics and sales progression rather than source disagreement about the same period.]
No linked glossary terms
Walking Dead LE units were selling for $9,500 on secondary market immediately after factory release
An actor's dialogue for Walking Dead was recorded in 2014 but couldn't be used in the original game due to licensing limitations; the same recording is being used in the remaster
Walking Dead remaster was released with incomplete code and wizard modes pending future updates
Walking Dead remaster is less polished than Metallica remaster; comparable to 'alpha' code quality
The barn shot is an effective strategy on Walking Dead based on John's success rate
Hitting a perfect post on Walking Dead is very dangerous for the ball
Shot positions move around on Walking Dead, making ball control between slings dangerous
Walking Dead door disable feature improves tournament reliability
The Walking Dead at The Flipper Room has prison doors that trigger on optos instead of a bash toy
Some Walking Dead rule variations allow starting modes during multiball
The well walker mechanic provides benefits once a ship goes off
Walking Dead remake art is more colorful than expected and went in an unexpected direction
Walking Dead is one of the best games Stern has ever made
The original Walking Dead launched over 10 years ago
Walking Dead remaster will use comic book art style to avoid actor licensing complications
Walking Dead remake is coming out with improved LCD screen and original topper design
Walking Dead's lack of Insider Connected features makes it a candidate for removal to make space for newer connected games
Walking Dead originally had show call-outs in the code that had to be removed due to licensing restrictions
Walking Dead's lower Pinside ranking is partially due to early ratings on poor code before post-revision improvements
Walking Dead was initially seen as a poor game but improved significantly through code development
Walking Dead was initially poorly received at launch but became well-regarded after code updates
Walking Dead received new code at Pinball Expo
Walking Dead has one of the most complex skill shots in recent years that can't be achieved via full plunge alone
Walking Dead's long ramps are a feature not commonly seen in recent pinball games
Walking Dead represents an improvement over previous Stern generation games
Walking Dead features innovative multiball stacking that requires skill to execute
The Well Walker toy implementation on Walking Dead is similar to the Wolverine toy and doesn't make direct contact with the ball
Stern Pinball remaster title in production; not observed on Factory Friday production line, raising timeline concerns
Pinball machine described as 'awesome game' in Neil's collection
Domino pinball remake/relaunch of the classic Williams/Stern machine, newly arrived for review with Spike 3 hardware
Stern remaster, launched without achievements initially, received them later after approval process.
Stern remaster; rumored to launch post-Expo to avoid competing with Star Wars visibility
Forthcoming Stern Pinball game; Don speculates about its appeal relative to competing upcoming releases
Stern release; rumored LE available on secondary market around $11k; Don considering purchase; brand new game with accessories coming
John Borg design, praised as well-balanced with good shot options, initially controversial but improved with code updates
Stern pinball with Past Mode Bonus mechanic detailed in rules minutia section
Pinball game at IFPA 16 featuring Barn mode as dominant strategy; Raymond won by playing Barn while opponents struggled to access flip time
Modern pinball machine rented by Cassie during COVID that significantly advanced her understanding of rules and competitive gameplay
Pinball machine played by Rachel in tournament, feeders cause drain issues
Pinball game with player choice via shot (5 different modes by ramp/shot); players observed choosing barn mode strategically on stream
Stern game remake announced coming out with improved topper and LCD screen
Original well-regarded game being remastered; extensive analysis of Pro vs Premium/LE trims
Original Stern game lacking show characters/licensing; rumored for remaster; only hard horror game from Stern; features gore on DMD
Pinball game compared to Jaws for having clearer mechanics like horde mode
Stern example of licensing delays; three months without code updates due to licensor approval
Stern machine; shipped with ramp issue similar to Venom's airball problem; Stern provided plastic top piece fix
Pinball machine played at Nationals; set with no ball savers in multiball
Stern Pinball remaster/update; release timing on same day as Beetlejuice reveal discussed as strategic positioning question
Stern pinball game designed by John Borg; noted as one of his successful designs; developed with various time constraints.
2025 remaster release; nominated for Best Call-Outs
Pinball machine; part of speaker's short-play game lineup
Stern pinball initially underperforming until Lyman's rule redesign transformed it into favorite
Referenced during accessory discussion; previously used Sam Shaker motors
Tournament machine; not selected much due to difficulty; described as having hair-trigger slings
Referenced as example of pinball game with resource gathering mechanics (medicine, food, ammo)
TV show IP; had a pinball machine adaptation featuring actor who played Herschel
Stern game referenced in discussion of mode entry mechanics (non-standard ramp approaches).
Previous Stern pinball game featuring external side lights, mentioned for design comparison
Pinball machine at Pinball Republic discussed for its brilliant rule set requiring dangerous shots but allowing skilled play
Referenced pinball machine with discussion about design and difficulty compared to Ghostbusters
Pinball machine that Nick expresses interest in acquiring
Stern release shipping with incomplete code and artwork pending approval; LEs sold out across US and UK distributors; cabinet design changes tested for years; expected significant sales
Pinball game with crossbow feature variant; Tim owns; Rachel enjoys playing it at locations alongside Halloween
Stern pinball machine; featured in Zach Sharpe's collection (Premium model); gameplay feature: Walker Bombs is game-changer
Stern pinball with code by Lyman Sheets; referenced as landmark game that changed industry standards for rule design and complexity
Raw Thrills arcade game mentioned as potentially future review subject, features crossbow and zombie shooting
Stern Pinball machine featuring prison multiball, drop targets, well walker mechanic, barn shot, and mode-based rules; subject of tournament play in this stream
Stern Pinball game, official remaster scheduled for Tuesday release, features updated artwork, mechanical improvements (barn door, bicycle ramp, Well Walker scope), no Pro Edition planned
Stern Pinball Pro title; compared to Black Knight and Iron Maiden as hard $6K+ game; noted as deeper
Right-flipper-heavy game; contrast to Metallica; speaker previously owned at home; described as more comfortable for speaker due to hand mechanics
Stern remaster strategy; Kaneda predicts not primary revenue driver but margin-play for Stern
Pinball machine; #6 in 2024 rankings; off-site for three months except December; noted for appeal to experienced players only
Spike 3 platform remake of 2014 classic, Limited Edition 500 units at $12,999, featuring new art, toys, lighting, and crossbow/well walker enhancements
Stern pinball machine; Premium version now added to Stern Rewards Program
Stern pinball machine at Golf n Stuff with high play count (~43,000-45,000); lockdown bar showing visible wear; runs original code
Referenced as visual style comparison point for Texas Chainsaw Massacre design
Stern Pinball recent release, not played by streamer; discussed concerns about artwork palette
Pinball machine; Jason mentions seeing one for sale nearby and being tempted
Stern Pinball title mentioned; described as 'hate and loving games' - games with strong polarizing opinions
Modern pinball game at Texas festival; features Riot stack mechanic, can produce massive scores with proper stacking
Pinball machine referenced for having a specific tilt warning sound that was later reused in another game.
Modern pinball game; Drew states he will acquire one way or other; describes as 'freaking awesome and great in every possible way'
Stern title; Scott Ian's Pro Edition traded, asking for Premium Edition equivalent value plus cash
Tournament pinball machine with drop target modes and prison multiball
Pinball machine featured in UK Open finals with crossbow shot that Rachel Risto has strategy for
Pinball machine player previously owned; considering bringing back to stream
Recent Stern pinball game receiving new color DMD upgrade
Original pinball table that Michael Jackson Moonwalking Dead pup pack is based on
Previously released Stern remaster referenced as comparison for playfield art style changes.
Stern Pinball machine; released 2014-2015; George references playing it 4 years prior with 4 viewers; had tilt-bob camera experiment
Pinball machine George owns, referenced as comparison for gameplay mechanics and design
Recent Stern pinball title praised for music quality and code implementation; used as positive comparison point for Batman 66
Pinball machine featured during final challenge match portion of stream
Stern Pinball game used in Pro/Premium Edition discussions
Game George would like to own again; mentioned in context of wanting to play with another person (Zoe)
Stern pinball machine with integrated coin/score accumulation system referenced as model for potential Aerosmith code improvements
Referenced as having four-ball maximum similar to LOTR 2003
Pinball machine in the streamer's personal collection; noted as the smallest collection they've had in a while
Pinball machine in host's collection; mentioned as not available for trading
Reference game used for difficulty comparison; mentioned as equally frustrating in design but still playable/enjoyable for some players
Stern machine; rated as one of hosts' favorite games ever made despite being 'ugly'; excellent rules and design
Stern pinball machine; referenced for comparison on callout quality. Hosts note Walking Dead has weak callouts.
Stern Pinball, described as 'ugly' but 'awesome,' subject of trade-in decision discussion
Stern pinball machine; host traded it away for Lethal Weapon 3 and Demoman
Stern Pinball announced remake; Kaneda speculates rumor that it may be codename for Ghostbusters instead.
John Borg design mentioned as example of varied layout approaches
Stern pinball machine referenced as notably difficult game for difficulty comparison with Tron
Borg-designed game with magnet mechanic; referenced for comparison to Munsters' magnet save design
Referenced in theme discussion as example of less appealing aesthetic
Stern Pinball game used as comparison point for shot layout design; mentioned as favorite despite aesthetic issues
Pinball game Jack plans to practice on Sunday at unknown location
Pinball game referenced in comparison regarding theme consistency and AV (alternate version) availability
Pinball machine at Dead Flip studio, played in previous week's stream
Stern pinball machine with known feed problem; discussed as having playfield issues
Pinball machine that received new code updates revealed at Pinball Expo
Mentioned as possible secret game selection; referenced as 'Awaken Dead' in one instance
Pinball machine referenced in stream banter; Nick makes comment about 'kill them zombies'
Stern pinball game that Richie Townsend was prepping for launch party, achieved ~32 average score
Pinball machine; host expresses preference for ball save feature on this title specifically
Stern pinball machine loaned for stream; opening game of 24-hour rotation
Stern pinball machine; featured as opening game for 24-hour stream rotation; gameplay discussed extensively with mode details (Barn Mode, Bloodbath)
Referenced as example of Stern game with animated dot animations
Stern Pinball remake coming within ~1 week of Beetlejuice announcement; perceived as having minimal community excitement
First Stern Pinball game using new Spike 3 cabinet design; subject of positive owner feedback regarding cabinet solidity
Pinball machine on display at SGDQ (Spooky Pinball title)
Pinball machine in the exhibit lineup at the end
Pinball machine visible in studio corner; mentioned by viewers
Pinball machine being donated to Dead Flip by Sam Stern; being picked up during Gary/Sam Stern visit
Pinball machine that Jack has on location; initially described as 'blah' but now considered 'solid'; son plays it and loves the game
Stern Pinball game with code by Lyman Sheets
Stern pinball machine in Dead Flip studio collection
Referenced as mechanical design comparison for bingo/drop target system
Stern/Zack Sharpe pinball game; reportedly problematic at launch but transformed by code updates
Stern game referenced as available at Logan Arcade
Pinball machine Jack Danger was testing/playing before Tron stream
Stern Pinball machine; referenced as current holder of DeadFlip's tilt record (previously held by Metallica)
Referenced as a modern game with standard flipper mechanics, used for comparison with Gottlieb Premier's challenging layout.
Primary example game used throughout episode to illustrate roadmapping strategy; Stern game with supply drops, prison mode, well walker multiball, and bloodbath mode
Pinball machine mentioned as Travis's first machine (Father's Day 2016 gift); starting point of his collecting hobby
Stern pinball machine mentioned by speaker as example of reliable build quality.
Mentioned in host's machine collection context; included in family's preference voting alongside other machines
Initially poorly received but code matured; horde mode, walker bombs, last man standing cited as excellent moments
Host's first pinball game; used as personal example of progression from 50 million to high-score scoring
Stern Pinball game; host speculates about Vault edition with comic book reskin
Pinball game; featured at Power 100 tournament; Escher won with strong performance on this game
Used as example game for bailout shot strategy; host cites upper well walker as a specific bailout target on left flipper
Previous Lyman Sheets programming work referenced for quality
Stern Pinball received surprise code update with major bug fixes, jackpot rebalancing, and system stability improvements.
Stern game; initially seen negatively but improved through code development; cited as example of designer John Borg's capability
Stern pinball game, LE version at 403 Club location, longest-enduring game at location
Stern pinball owned by Dennis; has topper installation challenges; owner added electrical control board to regulate shaker motor intensity.
Stern pinball machine that Tony plays regularly at 403 Club; set his two highest personal scores at venue; represents 'chopping wood' playstyle vs. shot selection strategy
Stern pinball machine; notoriously received poorly at launch but became well-regarded after code updates; demonstrates impact of software iterations
Pinball machine at Midway with non-functional auto-launch; used in Pinball NYC matches without auto-launch feature
Stern pinball game owned by Zach; recently installed with shaker motor modification
Pinball machine owned by Tony. Shaker motor modified with analog control board to reduce excessive vibration.
Stern game with poor initial code that improved post-revision; ranking hindered by early low ratings before code fixes; considered for future vaulting
Referenced as example of mode-driven pinball game with mode activation via drops
Sam system Stern pinball game; played by Dennis before rain; noted for quick boot-up vs Spike system
Stern Pinball machine; referenced as example of game that is both difficult and has unusual layout
Stern game rumored to be next remaster candidate despite weak initial sales; underwent code improvements to become 'very good game' over time
Referenced for magnet placement discussion (Well Walker magnet on LE vs Pro)
Stern Pinball title; Orby references its fish tank topper as one of his top 5 toppers of all time
Remake pinball machine; new art direction described as more colorful than expected
Stern Pinball remake, teaser released approximately 3 days before stream date, anticipated for late 2025
Stern pinball game; hosts mention they haven't played newer version yet; planned for future stream
Referenced for blood-spattered artwork style comparison to TCM aesthetic
Stern pinball machine; referenced as example of Stern-made mods; potential model for microtransaction approach in digital app
Stern Pinball ranked #3; features Lyman rule set; considered ugly by hosts but praised for smooth ramps and meaningful shots; taught hosts how to play
Older Stern game; Nick considering removal due to lack of Insider Connected; being pushed out by newer connected games with better features
Reference game for quality evaluation; described as 'one of my favorite games of all time' by Nick; visually unattractive but strong rules/gameplay
Rumored to receive Spike 3 remaster/remake for fall/Halloween release
Rumored Stern remake for 2025 Expo; Don believes this is more likely than Ghostbusters or Lord of the Rings remasters
Rumored Stern game; persistent rumor per Don
Game Zach maintains; recently updated with Titan bands and code updates; used for discussion of ramp design challenges
Stern pinball game referenced as comparison point for Ninja Turtles gameplay depth and shot design
Stern pinball machine with code by Lyman Sheets. Originally coded with call-outs from show but had to be removed due to licensing restrictions; Lyman had to rework code
Stern pinball game; one of Jason's first cards he thought of creating but got sidetracked; experienced significant code changes over time
Pinball machine currently rented from Mike Dimas by Albert; used in house staging despite potential buyer turnoff
Stern game cited as universally regarded as great despite divisive difficulty/design; best wizard mode referenced
Previous John Borg design referenced as precedent for character-mission-based gameplay structure replicated in Fall of the Empire
2025 Stern Pinball remake of original 2014 Walking Dead; built on Spike 3 platform with new artwork, animations, Expression Lighting, and cast voice-overs; lacks TV show clips despite platform capability
Referenced as precedent for quality control issues; Carrie mentions 'Walking Dead apron incident' involving copy-pasted artwork
Recent Stern Spike 3 release; first major game demonstrating Spike 3 cabinet interior/exterior expression lights; Don wants LE version
New Stern game featuring Spike 3 cabinet, first major release with restricted media access
Stern Spike 3 cabinet; remaster with giant screen, improved brightness, updated playfield art, expression lights; LE features two speaker sets; Don played at Kickback and found it fun with good shot acceptance
2025 Stern Pinball remaster (Spike 3) criticized for art direction, missing premium accessories, and high $13k LE pricing; features Lyman Sheets code and Expression Lighting
Referenced as comparison point for blood bath/instrument target mechanics on Rush
Stern 2025/2026 release; not hitting Metallica sales levels; underperfoming Walking Dead original expectations
Upcoming Stern release announced, first remastered Spike 3 system game, 500 LE units, mid-November LE production, end-November Premium production
2025 Stern Pinball remake of original Walking Dead (2014) using Spike 3 platform, featuring 18.5-inch LCD screen, external expression lighting, updated artwork by Robert Lasky, motorized well walker, and crossbow encoder; 500 LE units at premium pricing
Stern Pinball remake released 3 weeks prior to podcast recording; 500 LE units produced; polarizing art package; designed for competitive play with Lyman Sheets rule set
Stern remaster facing licensing complications; uses rotoscoped DMD on LCD; rushed production timeline; new licensing team created approval issues
Recent Stern release; exhibited at both CES and EAG Expo; first chance for many to play at EAG
Pinball machine; described as short ball time game; designed by John Borg
Stern Pinball 2025 release; redesign/remake of 2014 Walking Dead game; 500 LE units produced; features new art package, improved mechanics (barn door, bicycle ramp, Well Walker scope), Expression Lighting; John Borg designer
2025 Stern pinball remake with upgraded LCD screen, improved mechanics, new voice talent, better code, Insider Connect; released in Premium and LE configurations; subjects of this entire episode discussion
Recent Stern pinball release priced at $13,000; used as market pricing comparison point by Don
Stern Pinball code update 2025; praised for rule quality and dual-mode option (2014 classic vs. upgraded); voted best rules by one host
Stern two-flipper game from ~2010; referenced as design/feature baseline for comparison with Pokémon
Stern remaster underperforming; LE units depreciating from $13k to ~$10k within one week of launch, ahead of Pokémon release
Stern Pinball remaster; anticipated release within next several months; expected to disrupt market
Upcoming Stern game based on TV series; will have updated cabinet lighting; new design different from Ritchie version; Kaneda notes fewer old Walking Dead machines listed for sale
Mentioned as example of game consumers are satisfied with; no longer driving new purchases.
Upcoming Stern title noted as follow-up to Star Wars; implies continued Spike 3 rollout strategy
Stern upcoming remaster; Kaneda concerned about price increase and underwhelming reception
Predicted Stern remake with LE and Premium tiers; expected to depreciate value of original Walking Dead LE to ~$7,000 or less
Upcoming Stern release; Kaneda mentions price increase concern and suggests it will not sell well given current brand perception
Stern Pinball 2025 release with 500 LE units at $13,000 MSRP; features Lyman Sheets code and Spike 3 platform; predicted to sell out instantly
Recent Stern release; criticized as strategic error; used copies sell cheaply
Stern game streaming Friday; criticized for AI-generated-looking graphics and overly bright art package
Stern remaster; available for purchase; only 5 pages of discussion on Pinside; criticized as commercial failure
Stern title rumored to have sold only 200 LE units; example of poor premium-tier performance at $13,000 price point
Referenced for crossbow mechanic comparison; mentions record crossbow shot value at 500 million
Original Stern game designed by John Borg and Lyman Sheets; rumored for remaster in 2024; subject of debate over relevance and secondary market value retention
Stern pinball with code by Limey Sheets; Zach describes it as 'the biggest masterpiece code in pinball'
Stern title; early code reputation damage lasting in Pinside rankings; example of difficult game failing to recover
Referenced as game with prominent bash toy mechanic (well walker) for comparison to King Kong gong
Stern Pinball game from 2014; last major game coded by Lyman Sheets as primary programmer
Pinball machine; Jackson created alternative backglass design for his personal machine to make it age-appropriate for his son
Modern Stern pinball game; one of Acciari's three favorite games; game he selected for pin golf despite not having played it before
Stern game with dark artwork; Josh's daughter Charlotte resistant to playing due to theme
Stern pinball game Jerry avoids/refuses to learn due to complicated stacking mechanics
Game used in pin golf pre-tournament at Cabin Fever; Johannes scored poorly on this as opening hole in three-game final
Stern pinball machine; Dwight played during Ghostbusters design; inspired multi-path mode selection mechanic later used in Ghostbusters.
Stern pinball; cited as example of game that improved significantly through code updates post-release.
Stern pinball game; initially frustrating for Bowden but became favorite after new code and Premium version with weapon mechanic
First major Spike 3 release; cabinet design sparked community concerns about material cheapening and construction methodology
Stern Spike 3 remake; follows Star Wars; will feature LCD display with potential video assets; based on Metallica Remastered blueprint
Recently released Stern remake with $1,000 topper and new zombie head shooter knob ($200); expression lighting available Premium/LE only
Stern remake; played at media day; praised for shooting mechanics despite host's theme disinterest
Recent Stern Pinball release; market reference point for LE depreciation ($4K-$5K losses)
Zen Original confirmed as NOT coming to Pinball FX; Chris and Jared both believe 'that ship has sailed'
Existing Zen title; hosts note could be perfect for Pinball M with amplified blood effects
Pinball FX VR table featuring impressive zombie animatronics and interactive elements; example of strong VR implementation
Stern pinball machine designed by Lyman Sheets; cited by Josh and Zach Sharp as pinnacle of his work; known for challenging risk-reward mechanics and difficult gameplay
10-year-old Stern game; secondary market example showing $4,700 pricing for modded version
Initially unpopular but resurrected through Lyman Sheets' code work; demonstrates code importance to game success
Stern pinball; designed by John Borg with Lyman Sheets code; community member notes Sheets' code made the game special and drove his engagement with pinball
Original Stern Walking Dead (unspecified variant) included in machine list
John Borg-designed game cited as one of his acclaimed titles; remastered version exists on Spike 3
Stern Spike 3 platform remake of 2014 original; 500 LE units at $12,999; Premium at $9,699; improved artwork, Well Walker animation, additional voice actors, Expression Lighting
Stern remake receiving Governor's Fish Tank topper ($1,000), zombie head shooter knob ($200), various lighting systems; code v0.8 adds voice calls and light shows.
Stern's fourth 2025 release; excellent gameplay undermined by expired theme, rushed development, and placeholder code at launch
Referenced as source code design element integrated into Fall of the Empire by Raymond Davidson
Rumored Stern remaster with John Borg; part of speculation about his overextended schedule; targeted for Walking Dead Remastered variant
Original 2014 Stern pinball game designed by John Borg and Lyman Fet
Game with standard flipper mechanics compared to offset Gottlieb flippers; mentioned alongside Whirlwind as easier-to-control alternative
Game commentators wanted to play instead of Attack from Mars; mentioned as newer game with different rules
Pinball machine being played in another group during this match
Stern remake; mentioned as poor execution in design compared to Beetlejuice's attention to detail
Pinball machine at venue in extensive pinball catalog
Stern Pinball game used in Ontario Provincials final seeding round
Stern Pinball remake of 2014 original; running on Spike 3 platform; subject of Walt's extensive criticism regarding animations, color palette, character roster, and design execution
Stern Pinball game using new Spike 3 cabinet; reportedly 'rock solid' based on field feedback received by Cary
4 units at Pinball at the Beach
Recent Stern title with busy playfield artwork making shot flow unclear; cited as counterexample to Pokemon's clean art UI design
Stern remaster; appears rushed; limited content additions (voice actors only); original layout retained; negative sentiment toward necessity of remaster
Stern Pinball release; LE units selling on secondary market at ~$9,500; features new screen and upgraded sound system
Stern LE title; poor market performance; price depreciation but seemingly low sales volume overall; Don avoided purchasing despite initial FOMO
Stern Pinball release rumored for fall; may be accelerated due to weak Star Wars performance
Stern remaster with 500-unit LE; cited as recent example of LE not selling out immediately; market signal of saturation
Rumored upcoming Stern title mentioned in speculation section
Stern remaster rumored for Pinball Expo reveal
Forthcoming remaster set for release, code by Lyman Sheets considered his best work
Stern remaster rumored for late October/November 2025 release, likely timed for Halloween; hosts discuss potential graphic novel vs. TV show storyline direction; market concern about impact on original Walking Dead resale value
Stern's remaster of Walking Dead with controversial orange/blue art package, mechanical improvements, new voice talent; LE limited to 500 units
Stern remaster; not released at Expo Saturday as expected; Ralph questions whether timing matters given Spooky momentum and pre-order lists
Stern remaster of original Walking Dead; subject of 'Woodgate' controversy over cabinet construction changes; experienced by Ralph with CPU board failure and subsequent successful support
Recent Stern Pinball release; same codebase as original; subject of tutorial by Surge from Pin Pals; featured in local tournament where Ralph competed.
Spike 3 game with design controversies ('Cabinet Gate'); features HDF cabinet materials; includes Woodbury street sign sourced from community mods; George Gomez addressed concerns publicly
Pinball title Ken owns; he changed default setting from three balls to five balls to access Last Man Standing wizard mode
2025 Stern release; brightened artwork update from original; mixed reception; artwork appears similar in-person to pictures
Stern Pinball remaster of original Walking Dead; uses Spike 3 platform; LCD screen with graphic novel painted animations; priced $12,999 LE / $9,699 Premium
Stern Pinball remaster with new rollover switches, prison multiball, crossbow shots; features Spike 3 conversion
Released with incomplete code missing wizard modes and extra features (2-3 months away); uses static LCD UI with DMD-sized horizontal strip rather than full redesign; reuses dialogue recorded in 2014 that was originally unused
Stern remaster with bright color scheme, Expression Lights on rails, hardware upgrades; mixed reception on aesthetic choices
Stern Pinball Spike 3 remaster released November 4, 2025; 500-unit LE production; Premium £9,699, LE £12,999; features daytime/nighttime mechanic with bright color palette per AMC licensing requirements
Stern remaster featuring redesigned playfield/cabinet art, mechanical improvements (barn door, bicycle ramp, Well Walker scope), Michael Rooker voice talent
Game mentioned as part of Halloween-themed releases; seen at Colorado Game Exchange suite
Rumored Stern release; mentioned alongside Pokemon and Transformers as unconfirmed future titles
Stern Pinball game; not sold out; no detailed gameplay coverage by hosts
John Borg-remastered game; cited as evidence Borg handles remasters for Stern.
Stern Spike 3 game at Punk Rock Pinball HQ; pin golf objective was Well Walker multiball; also produced black screen during streaming tests
Stern 2025 release; characterized as sales flop despite quality gameplay
Stern Pinball remaster; hosts reference availability through distributors in weeks; positioned as alternative to Spooky's limited production
Stern pinball remaster discussed for art direction and color palette
Stern release; 500 LE units; features letterboxed DMD on LCD screens rather than full video content; released with 'license approval pending' disclaimer; first public gameplay by Retro Ralph after Stern missed scheduled reveal date; disappointing community reception
Stern title designed by John Borg; awaiting release (possibly held for later); expected before Halloween; possible substitute for other IP release
Upcoming John Borg design expected within month; consuming design time concurrent with Star Wars and other projects
Stern remaster on display at both CES and EAG Expo; many players experiencing it for first time at EAG
Stern game where trapping is not as viable, mentioned as example of on-the-fly play style
100% confirmed next Stern game after Star Wars; may include show clips; potential for rebooted theme relevance discussion
Stern game by Lyman designer; reference point for accessible but deep ruleset
Predicted as next Stern game (August/September 2025), competing with speculated Ghostbusters release
Stern title referenced for unknown artist credit
Rumored Stern remake with significant community heat; original criticized for dated gameplay and scale issues
Stern Pinball game being demonstrated and tournament-tested at Pinball Expo
Stern game; described as 'one of the worst selling Stern machines of all time' and 'terrible business decision'
Stern game that received transformative code update; referenced as precedent for whether code can salvage a flawed game
Stern game; eliminated in Round 3 by Lord of the Rings (54% vs 46%); known for difficulty and tight shots; praised by competitive players; Ryan's personal favorite
Stern game referenced as underperformer; accessories criticized as cheap and generic
Mentioned as upcoming Stern game after Star Wars; over-production is discussed as deterrent to collector purchases
Stern LE used in design comparison; visually inferior to Beetlejuice according to Kaneda
Recent Stern Pinball release; used as comparison point for quality concerns
Stern Pinball remaster awaiting license/approval; Kaneda expresses lack of interest; only new animations on old structure
Stern game; expected launch within 4-week window; potential Spike 3 launch vehicle; questionable cultural relevance vs Metallica Remastered
Upcoming Stern game; Kaneda speculates it will have more Spike 3 features than Star Wars
Stern Pinball title; mentioned in context of remaster strategy and John Borg design
Forthcoming Stern remake; expected to further damage brand reputation with thousands of original Walking Dead owners
Recent Stern release; characterized as immediate financial flop with $1,500+ instant depreciation; 70% of full game effort per Gomez; evidence of Stern's strategic failure
Stern precedent for late-year remaster releases
Cited as key learning tool for teaching restraint/timing in flipping strategy
Upcoming Stern release; rumored to not meet expectations; not appearing at Expo; predicted to underperform
Stern release; rumored to have sold only 200 units due to pricing concerns
Upcoming Stern release expected at Stern Army Party; anticipated pricing $13,000-$13,600 for LE; original LE was $5,500
Predicted John Borg game in Stern's roadmap
Upcoming game; predicted to not command 2x original price despite remaster
Referenced as positive example of code evolution and choreography that creates emotional engagement; barn mode praised
Cited by Keith as inspiration for Iron Maiden's rules framework
Referenced as template for Iron Maiden's rule structure and ball time expectations
Example of Stern promise violation; stated no Premium variant, then introduced Premium; caused collector backlash and value damage
Recent Stern release; LE priced at $13,000 but already selling for $11,500 with poor demand; 500 units produced; topper design criticized
Spike 3 remaster coming to Pinball Expo; reported to add no new mechanical features, only visual updates
Stern release cited as example of LE depreciation failure; contrasted with Pokémon's expected preservation of value.
Stern remaster; Kaneda claims sales are 'abysmal' despite contrary industry claims; underperformance raises questions about remaster strategy
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