Lord of the Rings is a 2003 Stern Pinball game designed by George Gomez featuring the Lord of the Rings movie license. It is widely regarded as one of Stern's masterpieces and a benchmark for themed pinball excellence, known for its deep ruleset including Fellowship, Two Towers, and Return of the King multiballs, the Valinor wizard mode, and ring destruction mechanics. The game achieved significant commercial success (estimated 5,100+ units produced) and ranks #14 all-time on Pinside, maintaining strong collector demand and secondary market value despite licensing complications with Warner Bros./Discovery that have prevented physical remasters.
No aliases
Lord of the Rings at Scrappleland has a ball save light indicator that doesn't accurately reflect ball save status
Lord of the Rings at this venue has ball save enabled, making it more accessible than machines like AFM
The trend of awarding wizard modes for collecting all multiballs originated in Lord of the Rings approximately 20 years ago
Lord of the Rings is ranked #14 of all time on IPDB
Discontinued pinball machine commanding premium secondary market prices ($8,000+). Used as example of theme-driven collectibility and value retention.
Pinball machine featuring 'Destroy the Ring' mode cited as memorable moment example
Commercial pinball game referenced for mode-selection lighting design pattern (eight lights for different modes) that inspired future Pokemon Pinball improvements
Machine at Scrappleland with reported issues: Gimli scoop malfunction, Vuk getting stuck, ball save light design flaw
Stern pinball game discussed as influenced by Austin Powers mechanical design; considered a Stern masterpiece
Stern pinball machine that introduced Michael to pinball's depth and rule complexity
No linked glossary terms
Lord of the Rings remaster would outsell Metallica remaster.
Valinor wizard mode requires beating all three multiballs, collecting seven gifts of elves, collecting all dwarf/elf/men rings, and playing all six modes
Lord of the Rings has six modes that unlock the final 'There and Back Again' mode
Path of the Dead multiball (Return of the King) takes the longest and most work to start compared to other multiballs
Destroying the ring endgame sequence is a must-play pinball moment
The Legolas ramp is the most satisfying shot mechanically on the game
Keith Johnson's Lord of the Rings rule set is one of the best rule sets in all pinball
Lord of the Rings is Stern's best game ever and worth $15,000 purchase price
The sound design on Lord of the Rings is amazing
Lord of the Rings is one of the games that kept Stern afloat
Lord of the Rings features narrative-congruent game mechanics that mirror movie plot progression
Lord of the Rings is currently in poor, barely-playable condition on NYC locations despite being a Stern masterpiece
Lord of the Rings sold 5,100 units and possibly exceeded Revenge from Mars' 6,878-unit sales record
Lord of the Rings whitewood is housed at the Strong Museum of Play in Rochester, New York
Lord of the Rings licensing complexity makes future re-release (Vault Edition, LCD update) impossible
Lord of the Rings may be one of the first pinball games to implement ball lock ejection mechanics
Lord of the Rings has a wood chopping rule set with linear value progression requiring 30+ minutes of play for modest scores
Lord of the Rings pinball machine is currently unavailable due to licensing expiration
Lord of the Rings has muted, faded playfield colors that negatively impact visual appeal despite strong code and layout
Valinor achievement in Lord of the Rings comes with a commemorative shirt for winners
Referenced in title as subject of an 'Ultimate Balrog' mod
2003 George Gomez-designed Stern game referenced for comparison; its motorized lift ramp mechanics echoed in Fall of the Empire's Hyperspace shot
Erica's first pinball machine purchased February 2022; catalyst for hobby immersion
Pinball machine with Ents mode and Attack of Shelob; used in finals, featured modified rules
Third of Mitch's four initial games
Pinball machine in Kat and Bruce's collection; Kat's personal favorite; first new machine she convinced Bruce to purchase; will never be sold from collection
Tournament machine with lightning flippers, no outlane posts; War of the Ents was Raymond's preferred starting mode
Mentioned as sister game to Simpsons Pinball Party; known for deep, complex rules (pre-purchase expectation Jason had).
Jersey Jack Pinball machine; praised for narrative-driven design and thematic integration between mechanics and video storytelling
Referenced as A-tier theme example with strong mode design tied to narrative (destroying ring, ringwraith escape); contrasted with Star Wars' missed storytelling opportunities
Classic DMD-era Stern game; host's top wishlist item for vault/remake; host claims to have owned it six times
Erika's first pinball machine purchase in February 2022; she lists it as her number one favorite game.
Pinball machine; Jason references repeatedly buying due to theme obsession and personal identification
Pinball machine with sword ramp; George Gomez design; Jason notes LE has limited gameplay difference vs regular
Potential future pinball title; host mentions interest but market concerns about surprise announcement
Stern pinball machine rated by Jason as 10/10 theme, 10/10 gameplay, 10/10 rules, 8/10 visuals, 6/10 audio. Jason has owned it multiple times and cycles through buying/selling due to game length.
Popular Jersey Jack title; secondary market analysis shows 23 units for sale with prices 7k-11k; previously hard to find; Jason collector profile
Jersey Jack game by George Gomez; in Shane's collection; large screen with light show
Machine cited as host's dream theme; noted as expensive and rarely appearing for sale even in 2015
Classic game Kaneda cites as exemplary design that should be remade; used as standard for theme-to-mechanic integration
Discussed as potential remaster candidate; described as licensing nightmare
Jersey Jack Pinball release; deep rule set; large playfield; complex; second choice for Eric; discussed as potentially worth $12k if released by Stern today; considered for custom art/LCD upgrades.
Vintage game Kaneda obtained for $7,000; used as benchmark for value — claims no modern game at 2x price is better
Pinball machine owned by Martin Robbins; recently repaired with help from Lucas
Stern pinball game featuring swoopy wire form ramps; George Gomez referenced as design inspiration for Millennium Falcon shot in Star Wars
Stern pinball game by George Gomez, both hosts list it, Alex's wife Megan's gateway game
Licensed pinball title currently unavailable ('vaulted'); multiple speakers expressed wish for its return in 2020
Stern pinball designed by Gomez; non-clunky playfield; excellent ruleset following movies; praised by Bruce for balanced wizard mode
Reference for wizard mode accessibility philosophy; Kaneda notes ability to reach end modes without requiring marathon games
Classic Stern machine from Kaneda's past; coded by Keith Johnson; Kaneda's first pinball machine; used as comparison benchmark for well-designed rules
Stern Pinball machine; classic owned by speaker; considered irreplaceable
Pinball machine designed by Keith Elwin; formative game that inspired Eric Meunier to enter pinball design
Restored classic machine at Pinfest; brought by Scott/Holly; praised for quality restoration work; custom green coloring generated debate about originality vs. craftsmanship
Referenced as fan layout example; hosts note it ranks highly despite conventional layout
Film property selected by Stern over The Matrix for pinball licensing
Pinball game designed by George Gomez at Stern
Stern machine; two-flipper design; lost showdown poll to Iron Maiden 41% vs 59%; hosts note strong shot variety despite flipper limitation
Game where LED OCD or Afterglow is essential; ghosting is particularly visible if not installed
JJP game with code by Keith P. Johnson; referenced as example of praised code design architecture
Stern game noted as having flipper fade issues; mentioned as potential candidate for bushing upgrade
Original run pinball machine from early 2000s; now at Silverwall Saloon; features figurines and hard/soft plastic sets
Jersey Jack pinball game that Joe uses as positive comparison point for code depth and meaningful progression; Joe prefers LOTR over The Hobbit
Stern Pinball physical machine; also recreated as VPX Valinor Edition by VPW with retro 1990s artwork styling.
Pinball game with ring magnet mechanic; referenced as proven mechanical solution for ball capture
Unreleased pinball game; host expresses desire; George Gomez stated 'probably not happening'; licensing appears problematic
Referenced pinball title with Balrog toy; Gary Stern philosophy cited regarding featuring prominent bosses regularly rather than as end-goals.
Pinball game referenced in tournament setup discussion, mentioned as being set flat and wide outlanes for tournament play
Stern Pinball title discussed in context of extended edition content and potential re-release interest
Pinball machine in tournament; equipped with silicone rubber rings
Stern 2003 game customized by Squidmar with extensive miniature diorama work representing 'world under glass' philosophy
Pinball machine designed by George Gomez; features mechanics, flow, diverter, callouts; noted for phonetic 'jackpot' callouts
Pinball machine offered as alternative to Attack from Mars for Jorge's rotation
Keith Johnson-designed JJP game; cited as example of underrated designer work; mentioned as game Drew doesn't own but would like to
Fan layout pinball referenced as comparison point; highly approachable layout benchmark.
Pinball machine George referenced reaching wizard mode quickly, similar to GOTG experience
Referenced machine with similar LED flashing issues to Tron
Existing pinball machine; cited as superior example of fantasy-themed game with better value retention than D&D; Kaneda recommends buying secondary market units
Jersey Jack Pinball machine in Raymond's collection; features complex Gollum multiball mechanics with 'Triple Jackpot Seven' call-out
George Gomez design; classic title cited as having defined what players want; exception to his humor-driven design principle
Past Stern pinball machine referenced as example of a game with more impressive and dramatic mechanical toys (Balrog) than John Wick's bash toy.
Recent pinball release mentioned as example of game without widespread community complaints
Jersey Jack game cited by Kaneda as an example of satisfying, reusable mechanical toy (the ring).
Stern game designed by George Gomez; executive override of designer preference (Matrix); described as 'jewel in portfolio'
Pinball machine Dave restored for a customer in Bolton area; received full day-spa treatment with LED upgrades
Lord of the Rings pinball cited as superior in mechanical wow and more meaningful video implementation compared to Harry Potter expectations; priced at $5,500
Jersey Jack Pinball game; used as positive example of code progression design with accessible memorable moments and difficult end-game content
Pinball game title desired by Macho and community; not currently available from Stern
Cited as one of greatest Stern machines; exemplary use of film audio, callouts, and IP integration to enhance thematic experience
2004 Stern game; referenced as example of successfully acquiring original actor audio clips from source films
Referenced for George Gomez's wavy wire form design that slows ball speed
Stern pinball game; referenced as notably slow-playing compared to Avengers
Stern pinball machine; positioned as comparable to Jurassic Park among fan base; subject of friendly debate about 'perfect games'
First pinball machine in Jack's studio; did not initially hook him despite being housed in his animation studio
Stern pinball from 2004; cited as historical benchmark for quality and toy/moment design that modern games fail to match 18 years later
Classic Stern game by Pat Lawlor referenced for its incredible toys and mechanical wow-factor; used as baseline for mechanical design comparison
Game Jason repeatedly mentions wanting to own; represents his theme preference
Stern pinball game from 2003, which Jason is actively seeking to purchase in good condition to create custom pin sound mix
Referenced as example of exceptional custom DMD animations; praised as '20 out of 10 animation'; benchmark for animation quality in pinball
Host's most-owned machine (7-10 times), primary emotional attachment, deep code, described as favorite theme
Referenced as comparison point for theme integration and game quality in Jason's collection history
Stern Pinball Limited Edition; Kaneda's personal purchase 7 years ago at $7,000 now worth $11,900-$12,000—71% appreciation
Early 2000s Stern title on Spike platform being repaired by Dave, experiencing flipper issues and boot problems
Stern Pinball game cited as benchmark for thematic excellence and execution; used in Kaneda's comparative framework
Stern Pinball machine; host's favorite theme-based pinball game, used as comparison point
Referenced as game Jon Hey would invest in if able to purchase; plans to get 'Lord of the Rings number nine'
Stern Pinball game; first game Jon lusted after intensely; acquired after sustained search; influenced his understanding of gear acquisition
Classic Stern pinball game; mentioned as machine host purchased from Chuck Ernst, used to identify Ernst's Stern employment
Classic Stern game cited as high point in 2000s pinball production
Classic Stern game referenced in discussion about broken sword lock mechanism affecting gameplay
Referenced as benchmark for culturally relevant decades-long IP translating successfully to pinball
Referenced as past masterpiece example of quality bar manufacturers should meet in current releases
Referenced for magnetic ring mechanism that inspired speculation about Rush's time machine mech
2003 Stern Pinball machine based on Lord of the Rings license, subject of deep dive discussion
2004 Stern Pinball machine used as benchmark for superior storytelling and theme integration compared to Toy Story 4
Historical benchmark; $7,500 LE purchase cited as justifiable; mentioned as available for $10K on marketplace
Stern Pinball game; Jason's first machine, purchased via Wisconsinpinball.net for $5,900, later sold
Stern 2003 title; heavily worn, barely playable machine cited in NYC; over 20 years old; rarely maintained
Classic pinball game available at venue with ball save enabled
Stern game mentioned as example of stacking ball lock mechanism; hosts note occasional mechanical issues with lock functionality
Referenced as harder to license than Star Trek for remaster purposes
Stern Pinball machine described as having lock-kicking mechanics; potentially one of first games to kick out locked balls
Legendary pinball title; Jason mentions multiple acquisition stories and frustrations with buying process
Stern Pinball game; Jason desires remaster/remake; subject of previous discussion about custom sound card modifications
Stern game; cited as example of title not vaulted despite George Gomez's public commitment
Referenced in dream-theme discussion; Kaneda suggests Jersey Jack Pinball reimagining would outshine original machine
Stern title, $5,000-$6,000 secondary market range, marks shift to Pro/Premium/Limited Edition model
Pinball machine at Silver Ball Saloon that Kathy (Bruce's wife) refuses to rent; contentious for tournament inclusion due to long play time
Pinball machine played during Stomp; Ron Hallett offered $30 bounty for defeating ring in under 30 seconds; Steve Bowden won bounty with 29.4 second victory
Pinball machine previously at Metreon
Drew acquired this machine in trade for his Ghostbusters Stern
Pinball game; Drew streamed playing it with Ryan Kuyper; Drew achieved exceptional performance; features 'Destroy the Ring' and 'There and Back Again' modes
Pinball machine player mentions planning to stream next
Pinball machine designed by George Gomez, noted as highly regarded by the collector community
Fantasy IP property that Gonzo identifies as personal interest; Middle Earth map visible in recording location; used as reference point for understanding fantasy/RPG aesthetics
Pinball game with highly praised 'Super Jackpot' call-out voicing that influenced Ron's appreciation of the game
Game that overshadowed Ripley's Believe It or Not in community perception and play time
Stern Pinball 2003 game based on LOTR IP; features Fellowship/Two Towers/Return of King multiballs, Valinor wizard mode, ring destruction mechanics
Referenced as comparison for mode selection mechanics similar to Pirates
Pinball machine that was being streamed; mentioned in chat discussion about high scores
Pinball game mentioned in Pinbird tournament context (difficulty/challenge division)
Stern title; mentioned as having same knocker volume bug affecting audio levels as Iron Maiden
Pinball machine; featured in recent Rayda Pinball stream duel
Pinball game George is trading for (pending trade for Metallica Premium Edition)
Jersey Jack Pinball game; Keith Jeff Johnson credited as rules developer alongside other creators
Stern pinball title criticized for stock photo artwork and ramp mechanics similar to Batman 66's issues
Referenced as example of George Gomez design; mentioned in context of hard-hitting ramp mechanics
Ranked #8; Barnyard Tilt Topper featuring pulsing ring insignia; noted for excellent lighting and thematic cohesion
Considered deep game suitable for long-term ownership; strong theme integration; preferred for five-year ownership scenario
Stern pinball machine used as installation demonstration platform
Stern Pinball game at Europa Park arcade
Stern pinball machine being played; described as George Gomez's best effort; player achieves 462M point hurry-up during gameplay
#2 wizard mode (Destroy the Ring / Valinor); cinematic Mount Doom sequence; full coil explosion finale
Stern Pinball licensed game; cited as positive example of thematic narrative integration and character understanding in rule design
Featured at Dory Kevin Hill tournament; Saturday objective was start Fellowship Multiball, Sunday objective was start Two Towers Multiball
Stern game from 2001-2008 era; Kaneda's pick for Stern's best remake candidate; praised for immersive theme and code quality
Classic Stern game; Kaneda references in layout comparison analysis
Classic Stern game (2003) credited as originator of 'collect all multiballs' wizard mode qualification trend with Destroy the Ring mode
Stern Pinball machine; used as comparison point for theme execution and playfield design philosophy
Stern machine; described as one of Stern's best creations; preferred in This or That over Whirlwind and No Fear due to quality
Referenced as comparison point for ruleset complexity and narrative progression versus TNA's linearity
#10 ranked; features slingshot/left ramp with satisfying arrow-like ball trajectory; George Gomez design
Referenced as contrast example of serious-themed pinball machine
Stern 2003 release; established as benchmark for code quality and theme integration; preferred over The Hobbit without hesitation
#2 ranked shot: destroy-the-ring with magnet interaction and Gollum knockoff mechanic; Gomez design
Stern Pinball title ranked #4; features sword lock, ring shot, path of the dead, Shire elements; criticized for artwork quality
2003 Stern Pinball machine based on LOTR film franchise; widely considered Stern's masterpiece in rules/code
Stern Pinball (George Gomez design) ranked #8 by Zach; criticized for color palette and game length
Referenced for mode depth and long ball times similar to Spider-Man Vault
Stern classic; rated #1 game by host; epic scope and deep ruleset; compared against Hobbit and Iron Maiden
2003 Stern game; Colin's first personal machine purchase; features Valinor wizard mode; games take long time commitment
Stern Pinball game being played; subject of the video; host considers Destroy the Ring one of their favorite wizard modes
Stern Pinball game referenced for toy/mechanical quality comparison (washing machine ramp)
Position 2; Stern Pinball; designer George Gomez; features ring destruction wizard mode; excellent theme integration described as 'playing the movie'
Referenced Gomez design where toys (Balrog, ring) drove game architecture
Pinball machine at Dead Flip studio that introduced Jack Danger to the hobby; described as long-playing and hard to drain
Pinball machine referenced for extremely long Balrog mode requiring 45+ minute gameplay
Pinball machine at Dead Flip, set to simple/easy mode; discussed as alternative game option
First pinball machine brought to Jack Danger's animation studio by Brad Stark; did not initially captivate him
Mentioned as comparison point for Rush playfield design elements.
Historical example of severe flipper fade; fade was so severe it prevented players from making the ring shot
Pinball game with jackpot sequencing mechanic; Electric Playground considering topper concept integrating 'the eye' IP and jackpot celebration via video display and potential PinSound integration
Game Gomez designed after Gary Stern redirected him from Matrix; became one of Gomez's portfolio jewels; demonstrates value of executive override of designer preference
Jersey Jack Pinball game; frequently discussed as candidate for Vault edition but host criticizes as grindy
Pinball machine at local arcade where young players lost interest due to nonfunctional state; used as example of barrier to new player entry
Jersey Jack Pinball game; Don's favorite; 2003 era JJP release; priced around $11,000; multiball stacking mechanics and ring shot are key appeals
George Gomez design; ranked as Matt's favorite game of all time
Stern White Star era game; most desired Vault candidate by community but never vaulted; high secondary market prices (around $7,000+)
Jersey Jack Pinball game by designers Bowen Kerins and Eric Meunier; Tony's most-wanted game from Pinside top 50; described as best of White Star era from Stern; prices exceed new Stern Pro models
Existing pinball theme; host expresses obsession with TOKI character design; noted as existing favorite game
Game with valuable mods (Path of the Dead, Palantir); discussed in secondary market context
20-year anniversary Stern release candidate examined by Jason during speculation process; eliminated from consideration as mystery re-release
JJP version; ranked in Pinside top 10; selected by Dennis as journey pin with great flow and theme
Pinball machine designed by George Gomez; introduced to Jack Danger early in his pinball journey; selected by Gary Stern over Matrix due to movie release timing considerations despite Matrix licensing appeal
White Star era Stern game; considered one of best pre-2010 Stern titles; potential remaster candidate
Stern game mentioned as obvious remaster candidate based on gameplay quality and enduring IP popularity
Won 2000-2010 Hall of Fame category
Referenced for tournament brutalization resistance
Mentioned as another long-playing game in same thematic realm as Hobbit; described as great game
Pinball machine owned by Sean L.; weeks sometimes pass without playing despite ownership
White Star era Stern game; iconic movie IP; predicted to be highest-selling potential remaster; hosts praise layout and callouts; suggested to outsell Metallica remaster.
Stern pinball game with comprehensive rules by Keith Johnson
Stern pinball game; Jack Guarnieri convinced Gary Stern to remake as special limited edition in 2009; features acclaimed art by Jerry Vandersteldt
Classic Stern game designed by Keith Johnson; cited as example of deep rules and excellent license use
Stern pinball machine in Flippin' Out Pinball collection; described as 'very heavy stern'
Stern pinball game mentioned as vault wishlist candidate by community
2003 Stern pinball machine in the arcade
2003 Stern Pinball game based on LOTR license; benchmark title with deep ruleset, multiple multiballs, and Valinor wizard mode
2003 Stern Pinball game that was extensively modified with miniature diorama and custom artwork
Modern Stern pinball machine at museum with Color DMD
2003 Stern Pinball title at The Break
Pinball machine title discussed humorously in sketch; fan (Franchi) wishes for 'vault' version; George Gomez joked about licensing complexity
Stern Pinball game ranked #2; features Keith Johnson rule set praised as one of best in pinball; played on White Star system; long gameplay; magnetic ring toy
Cited as great game potentially unsuited for tournament play; referenced in design philosophy discussion
Pinball machine in Ryan's collection; deep rule set that draws players via theme despite complexity
Stern White Star game (October 2003); co-designed by Gomez/Johnson; sold 5,100+ units; possibly exceeded Revenge from Mars sales; whitewood in Strong Museum; licensing blocks re-release
Referenced as example of perceived value problem at $14,000-$15,000 price point; host received critical feedback for previous episode criticism
Stern machine; called 'maybe the greatest Stern machine of all time' with worst art package; Kaneda suggests remaster as better alternative to AC/DC
Source material for both Aragorn and Smaug characters in tournament
Fan layout exemplar; referenced as approachable and successful design despite conventional layout; comparison for Venom's appeal potential
Stern game designed by George Gomez after Matrix proposal rejection; described as working out very well; George Gomez noted he has no prior knowledge of LOTR
Gomez-designed classic; vault release rumored as possibility for 2022 Gomez project
Classic rumored Vault candidate (SAM system); highly sought by collectors; licensing would need renewal
Finalist in Stern Showdown, considered classic DMD-era Stern game from 2003
Friend's machine that Michael is maintaining/overseeing.
Tournament-contentious pinball machine; longest-playing game at Rochester's Stomp tournament (40 minutes, 3-player); subject of extended debate about tournament inclusion
Stern Pinball game; runner-up in Stern Showdown tournament; noted for popularity at release but criticized for long ball times and repetitive audio
Pinball game exemplifying layered design approach; referenced by Davidson as example of accessible with hidden depth philosophy
Pinball machine purchased by Bowen in 2006; still in his collection
Commercial pinball game cited by Scott as example of excellent mode-based design philosophy that influenced Legends of Valhalla mode structure.
Featured on Monday Night Papa TV where Alek competed
George Gomez game featuring mechs, diverter, memorable callouts ('Jackpot one! Jackpot two!')
Pinball title; community comparison for playfield design complexity
George Gomez design; straightforward fan layout; beloved and successful commercial title
Game mentioned as location play option available at venues like Wedgehead
Stern game released 3 years after Sharky's; used as comparison point for design progression and flipper reliability; reviewer praised over Sharky's
Deep ruleset game Alex owned; part of his journey to build fantasy-themed collection.
Game Alan previously owned; now regrets not installing lightning flippers on it; example of long-playing modern game that would benefit from modification
Premium Stern Pinball game designed by Gomez; one of four consultant contracts Gomez held before joining full-time in 2011
Later Stern release cited as dependent on High Roller Casino's industry-saving role; represents major IP licensing success
Keith Johnson-programmed game cited as example of deep, complex rule sets; features unobtainable Valinor wizard mode
Erica's first pinball machine purchased February 2022; highly valued in her collection; does not intend to sell
Pinball machine that was Erika's first purchase; described as her favorite game in her collection
George Gomez design (2003); estimated 5,100 units + 500 LEs; ranked #14 all-time on Pinside; highest-rated game of 2003-2007 era
Stern Pinball game released pre-NASCAR; major commercial hit that put Stern on stable financial footing, enabling risky NASCAR investment
Recommended gateway game with cool gimmicks for new player engagement
Pinball machine owned by DeAngelo for 10-12 years; listed as one of his two permanent collection keepers
Abbas family's favorite pinball machine; purchased as part of collecting hobby alongside Stern games.
Classic Stern pinball game; physical machine licensing unlikely in near-term due to Warner Bros./Discovery complications; Zen may create digital version via Embracer's Middle Earth Enterprises IP access
Stern Pinball game; discussed as example of game with demanding Valinor wizard mode requiring extensive mode completion
Stern licensed game cited as example where theme creates game identity; gameplay comparable to Sopranos but theme drives collector value and resale demand
Referenced as layout-similar to Sopranos but significantly more desirable; people 'hunt down' and 'have hard time letting go of'; implies superior ruleset/theme harmony
Jersey Jack pinball machine; host describes as 'wood chopping game' with linear scoring and modes requiring significant time investment.
Classic Stern game referenced as comparison for complexity and long-play experience; also mentions Valinor wizard mode as rarely-seen mode
Stern game designed by George Gomez; Josh acquiring due to reputation for depth and Valinor wizard mode complexity; cited as one of few games with genuinely satisfying endgame
Josh (co-host) expresses desire for remaster as 'number one' wish list item
Referenced as example of wire form design (seesaw habit trail) that slows ball speed through shape calculation—design principle applied to Kong's mechanics.
Stern Pinball reference point; George Gomez design; Eric compares casting/character challenges in multi-film narrative to Harry Potter
Referenced as example of thematic gaming moments; fighting the Balrog cited as memorable experience
Stern LE up 5%, selling at $14,000 level
2004 classic pinball machine used as comparison point for LED technology advancement in Harry Potter
Pinball machine cited as Jeff's favorite example of iconic audio moments and design
2003 Stern game referenced for kinetically satisfying motorized lift ramp mechanic echoed in Fall of the Empire
Reference point for code complexity; Avengers Infinity Quest potentially exceeds it in complexity
George Gomez design; example of center ramp implemented as jump shot; contrasts with traditional ramp design
Stern game at 81 Arcade South Dakota where Alex's pinball interest began through play with Megan; marked their initial pinball engagement
Pinball game in Gonzo's top rankings; designed by George Gomez
Classic George Gomez design that Don wants remastered by Stern with HD screen and new modes; played at Benton facility; Don suggests JJP alternative approach
Stern game; top-selling Stern title in UK with ~50 units sold; strong theme recognition
Current Stern pinball game available through Pinballsales.com
Stern game on which Hudson worked in production capacity with Kevin O'Connor and John Yalvese
Stern game designed by George Gomez; Erika praises its artwork quality
Referenced as comparison game; host mentions playing it yesterday and adjusting to mechanics
Pinball machine present at MAGFest, contributed by other operators
Game referenced at Grazley Garage; apron cards being transported as gift to Rob Luscombe
Referenced as comparison for multiball mode strategy and advance-planning mechanics
Game in Mike's collection since approximately 3 years prior; mentioned as unchanged since last room tour
Stern 2003 George Gomez design; 5,100 units; ranked #14 all-time; extensively restored with full LED conversion
Premium Stern pinball in Gonzo's collection; ranked above Star Trek TNG; being retained
Classic Stern game designed by George Gomez; Gonzo speculates about potential future remaster and notes missed opportunity if not fully leveraging TV clips
Pinball machine; comparable in weight to Labyrinth
Stern pinball title; Falcon ramp on Star Wars compared to ring shot mechanical architecture
Pinball game by Gomez for Stern; subject of Precision flipper modification review; suffers from flipper fade during extended gameplay
Stern game designed by Gomez; used as example of prestigious license; triggers confidence concerns about future Stern regional releases
George Gomez-designed iconic game; served as Jack Danger's introduction to pinball; mentioned as example of George's design capability; influenced Danger's career trajectory
Game taught host by person named Kyle; highlighted as effective for learning strategy and multiball stacking
Available at Jason Cosman's house; first opportunity for Robert to play game he'd never encountered before
Stern game designed by George Gomez; benchmark for themed pinball excellence; contextual reference for Hobbit licensing decision
Referenced as exemplar of theme integration and call-out design
Stern licensed title with Granner audio; he references viewing YouTube playthrough to refresh memory for podcast
Referenced as exemplar of emotionally resonant pinball design that successfully recreates iconic film moments in pinball format
Host suggests would buy NIB at $15k as example of theme with strong appeal
Machine with sentimental value to host; mentioned as source of frustration with code/playfield difficulty.
Referenced as pinball game with voiceover quality concerns
JJP game, inspiration for Wizard of Oz rules, Joe's favorite machine though never owned due to cost
Kaneda's first pinball machine (2004, George Gomez design); benchmark for Stern's past excellence
Referenced as strong candidate for remake on modern platform
Stern Pinball release from ~22 years ago cited as example of better game depth under glass compared to Pokemon expectations
Stern Pinball title being played; features Fellowship, Two Towers, and Return of the King multiballs, valanor wizard mode, ring destruction mechanic
Jersey Jack game; cited by Kaneda as best pinball experience with mechanical wow factor
Jersey Jack Pinball game; first game that got Eric into pinball; he owns one in his home
Jersey Jack Pinball game referenced for multiball design and slingshot sound design (lacks slingshot sounds)
Game featuring two modes per movie; example of IP-consistent mode design with real-time rule updates
Colin's first pinball purchase, favorite theme, can play very long if not set up hard
Classic game mentioned as potential target for remake
Premium Stern game used as comparison point; host notes multiple units appearing for secondary sale due to D&D competition
Pinball machine designed by Gomez as contractor for Stern
Stern pinball game designed by George Gomez in his garage development cabinet.
Stern title demonstrating remake/re-release strategy with refreshed artwork/features
Pinball machine being played throughout stream; manufacturer not specified but commonly associated with Stern
Cited as example of deep ruleset with Valinor wizard mode that very few players achieve; hosts use as comparison point for Munsters discussion
Referenced as example of well-designed unique modes with different playfield strategies
Classic title Kaneda suggests should have been remastered on Spike 3 for stronger launch impact
Classic Stern game designed by George Gomez; high secondary market demand, astronomical prices in Australia
Discussed as host's favorite game; noted for theme integration and call-outs; mentioned playfield art variations across production runs
Game used as example of proper lighting design matching theme
Stern game; reached Battle Royale final; defeated ACDC in semifinal (61%); described as number one seed on Pinside; known for long gameplay sessions (45+ minutes)