Stern Officially Reveals New Pokémon Pinball Machine

Knapp Arcade·article·analyzed·Feb 14, 2026

Analysis

claude-haiku-4-5-20251001 · $0.022

TL;DR

Stern officially launches Pokémon Pinball with three tiers; LE units immediately sold out.

Summary

Stern Pinball officially revealed Pokémon by Stern Pinball on February 12–13, 2026, marking a major IP licensing milestone for the pinball industry. The machine launches in three tiers (Pro $6,999, Premium $9,699, LE $12,999 limited to 750 units) with immediate sell-outs reported across distributor allocations. The game features Spike 3 technology, animatronic Pokémon characters, Insider Connected integration, and original animated series content, positioning it as a flagship cornerstone release with unprecedented cross-IP appeal.

Key Claims

Pokémon Pinball Limited Edition is limited to 750 units globally
high confidence · Official Stern press release explicitly states 'limited to 750 games globally'
Pokémon Pinball Pro production begins late February 2026 with operator priority; Premium production late March; LE production early March
high confidence · Knapp Arcade reporting on distributor information regarding staggered production timeline
Most distributors report complete sell-out of Limited Edition allotments with waiting lists
high confidence · Knapp Arcade article states 'Most distributors are reporting that they are completely sold out of their allotment of Limited Edition machines with a waiting list on top of that'
Stern's Pokémon teaser generated more media pickup than any recent Stern game
medium confidence · Knapp Arcade editorial observation: 'Stern's initial teaser trailer was picked up by more media outlets than any game I've seen from it in quite some time'
Game features 182+ original-generation Pokémon across four distinct habitats
high confidence · Press release describes 'four distinct habitats' with Pokémon discovery mechanics; aligns with known entity data

Notable Quotes

“Today we're proud to finally deliver the long-awaited Pokémon by Stern Pinball machine. This game is a true celebration of nostalgia, craftsmanship, and the enduring adventure of Pokémon – brought to life in a whole new way through immersive pinball gameplay, thrilling battles and the timeless excitement of catching Pokémon.”
Seth Davis, President & CEO of Stern Pinball @ February 12, 2026 (press release) — Official executive framing of Pokémon Pinball as a flagship celebration of the IP, emphasizing nostalgia and immersion as core design pillars
“Stern's initial teaser trailer was picked up by more media outlets than any game I've seen from it in quite some time.”
Knapp Arcade (editorial) @ February 13, 2026 — Independent industry observer noting unprecedented media interest in a Stern Pinball release, signaling cultural crossover appeal beyond traditional pinball enthusiasts
“Most distributors are reporting that they are completely sold out of their allotment of Limited Edition machines with a waiting list on top of that.”
Knapp Arcade (reporting distributor feedback) @ February 13, 2026 — Evidence of immediate scarcity and FOMO-driven demand dynamics typical of flagship LE releases, with supply constraints generating waitlists within 24 hours of announcement

Entities

Pokémon by Stern PinballgameStern Pinball, Inc.companyThe Pokémon Company InternationalorganizationSeth Davisperson Insider Connectedproduct Spike 3productLoserKid Pinball PodcastorganizationFox Cities Pinballorganization

Signals

?
licensing_signal: Pokémon Pinball represents Stern's largest IP licensing deal in pinball history with official Pokémon Company collaboration
high · Press release emphasizes collaboration with 'The Pokémon Company International' and features 182+ original-generation Pokémon with original animated series content integration
$
market_signal: Limited Edition units completely sold out across distributor allocations within 24 hours of announcement; waiting lists established
high · Knapp Arcade reporting: 'Most distributors are reporting that they are completely sold out of their allotment of Limited Edition machines with a waiting list on top of that'
$
market_signal: Pokémon Pinball teaser generated unprecedented media pickup compared to recent Stern releases
medium · Knapp Arcade editorial: 'Stern's initial teaser trailer was picked up by more media outlets than any game I've seen from it in quite some time'
$
market_signal: Pokémon LE priced at $12,999 (750 units); represents ongoing three-tier pricing model with $6,000 span between Pro and LE
high · Official MSRP: Pro $6,999, Premium $9,699, LE $12,999 with RRP pricing for international markets
?
announcement: Stern Pinball officially announces Pokémon by Stern Pinball with immediate availability across three tiers
high · Official press release dated February 12, 2026; teaser trailer released; design team interviews published same day

Topics

Pokémon Pinball Official Announcement & ReleaseprimaryLimited Edition Scarcity & Immediate Sell-OutsprimaryThree-Tier Pricing Strategy (Pro/Premium/LE)primaryProduction Timeline & Distributor AllocationprimaryInsider Connected Integration & FeaturessecondaryMechanical Features & Animatronics (Pikachu, Meowth Balloon)secondaryIP Licensing Significance & Media CoveragesecondaryStern Pinball Flagship Cornerstone Release Statussecondary

Sentiment

positive(0.88)— Overwhelmingly positive sentiment reflecting successful major IP licensing deal, unprecedented media interest, and immediate market demand validation. Knapp Arcade's tone is celebratory. No critical commentary or concerns voiced in the announcement itself. Minor note: phrase 'long-awaited' implies sustained community anticipation, reinforcing positive momentum.

Transcript

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News Stern Officially Reveals New Pokémon Pinball Machine k knapparcade February 13, 2026 Moments ago, Stern Pinball officially revealed its long-awaited Pokémon pinball machine. Fans of both pinball and the Pokémon IP have been anxiously waiting for a chance to see the game. Stern's initial teaser trailer was picked up by more media outlets than any game I've seen from it in quite some time. Most distributors are reporting that they are completely sold out of their allotment of Limited Edition machines with a waiting list on top of that. As with all Stern cornerstone releases, Pokémon will come in three trim levels, Pro ($6,999), Premium ($9,699) and Limited Edition ($12,999). This release, Stern will begin production with Pro machines. Pro production will start in late February with priority placed on operators and public locations. Pro production will run through early March when Limited Edition games starting then. Premium model production will occur in late March. Official Stern accessories for the game are not out yet, but they are supposedly coming very soon. I've heard good things about the topper. Pokémon by Stern Pinball Game Trailer - YouTube Stern Pinball Pokémon by Stern Pinball Game Trailer Stern Pinball Search Info Shopping / •Live • Pokémon Limited Edition Pokémon Premium Edition Pokémon Pro Edition Pokémon Limited Edition Playfield Flyers courtesy of MAD Pinball https://www.madpinball.com/ The LoserKid Pinball Podcast already has an interview with the game's design team up. Impressive! Check it out below: Pokemon by Stern Pinball \| Reveal Podcast - YouTube LoserKid Pinball Pokemon by Stern Pinball \| Reveal Podcast LoserKid Pinball Search Info Shopping / •Live • The Stern Pinball Media Day presentation on the game, courtesy of Fox Cities Pinball Pokemon Pinball Explanation \| Stern Pinball Media Day - YouTube Foxcitiespinball Foxcitiespinball Search Info Shopping / •Live • " DISCOVER, CATCH, TRAIN, and BATTLE in this Pokémon world under glass Travel around the playfield world as a Pokémon Trainer and DISCOVER Pokémon in their different habitats Shoot the Poke Ball lock to CATCH Pokémon Pokémon themed playfield including the Bulbasaur outer loop, the Squirtle ramp with whirlpool action, the Pikachu ramp with ball lock and animatronic Pikachu that reacts to playfield events and the Charmander outer loop with fire energy spinner. Become a Pokémon master by competing with RIVAL Trainers and battling Team Rocket TRAIN Pokémon to get them ready for RIVAL battles Win your RIVAL battles to compete at the Pokemon arena Battle the ball interactive Meowth Balloon bash toy to protect your Pokémon when it descends to the playfield arena." PRESS RELEASE "Stern Pinball Challenges Trainers to Catch Pokémon and Battle Their Way to the Top CHICAGO, IL – February 12, 2026 – Today, Stern Pinball, Inc., the largest manufacturer of pinball games in the world, in collaboration with The Pokémon Company International, revealed and released a new pinball machine – Pokémon by Stern Pinball. Since Pokémon debuted in Japan in 1996, Trainers around the world have embarked on countless journeys across the iconic entertainment franchise – all in pursuit of becoming a top Pokémon Trainer. Powered by Stern’s SPIKE 3 technology, this dynamic machine brings the thrill of catching, battling rivals and training Pokémon in the silverball arena for the very first time. Stern invites players to step up to the playfield and test their skills as Pokémon Trainers, battling rivals and facing off against the menacing Team Rocket in intense encounters. Pokémon by Stern Pinball is available now in Pro, Premium, and Limited Edition (LE) models. In Pokémon by Stern Pinball, Trainers embark on an unforgettable journey across four distinct habitats, discovering, catching, and bonding with many of their favorite Pokémon. Players will shoot the illuminated, mechanically animated Poké Ball to catch Pokémon, build their ultimate team, and complete their Pokémon Collection. The playfield also features beautifully crafted Pokémon-themed ramps, spinners, and targets. Watch as the animatronic Pikachu reacts to your gameplay, cheering you on every step of the way! Trainers can battle their way through rival trainers and compete in the arena through dynamic, custom battle sequences. Danger lurks as Team Rocket and their infamous boss, Giovanni, plot trouble. The interactive Meowth Balloon toy swoops down onto the battle arena to challenge the Trainer. Premium and Limited Edition games include an interactive electromagnet that adds chaos to the battle arena. Every element of Pokémon by Stern Pinball has been meticulously crafted with attention to detail, honoring the rich legacy of the beloved franchise. The machine integrates video clips from the original Pokémon animated series, immersing players in the world that started it all. Bringing the experience to life even further, custom voiceovers for Pikachu and the notorious Team Rocket leader, Giovanni, captures the spirit and humor that fans know and love. To complete the nostalgic journey, the game proudly includes the iconic “Pokémon Theme” song, a true celebration of the timeless Pokémon adventure. Utilizing Stern Pinball’s award-winning Insider Connected, Pokémon by Stern Pinball elevates the experience by connecting Trainers and their adventures across machines and locations. When Trainers play Pokémon by Stern Pinball signed in with their Stern Insider Connected Account, the Pokémon they CATCH will be added to their Insider Connected Pokémon Collection, which can be viewed in the Insider Connected app. Trainers looking for an elevated experience will be able to enjoy the highly collectible Limited Edition model, limited to 750 games globally, which includes the updated Expression Lighting System™ and Speaker Expression Lighting System with Pokémon-themed game effects, a full-color mirrored backglass, full-color high-definition cabinet decals, a custom LE Pokémon pinball armor, a custom designer-autographed bottom arch, upgraded audio system, anti-reflection pinball playfield glass, shaker motor, a sequentially numbered plaque, a signed Certificate of Authenticity, and a digital Insider Connected LE owner’s badge on registration. “Today we’re proud to finally deliver the long-awaited Pokémon by Stern Pinball machine,” said Seth Davis, President & CEO of Stern Pinball. “This game is a true celebration of nostalgia, craftsmanship, and the enduring adventure of Pokémon – brought to life in a whole new way through immersive pinball gameplay, thrilling battles and the timeless excitement of catching Pokémon.” Pokémon by Stern Pinball is available through authorized Stern Pinball distributors and dealers around the world. Find out more and contact us for availability in your location on the game information page here. Stay up to date by following Stern Pinball on YouTube, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Pricing and Availability: Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (“MSRP”) and Recommended Retail Price (“RRP”): \*MSRP (US) and RRP (Europe) are for sales to end-users before any applicable VAT, GST, Sales Tax, Duties, Tariffs, or other taxes and are subject to change. Pro Edition: $US 6,999 (RRP – €6,699.00; £5,799.00) Premium Edition: $US 9,699 (RRP – €8,749.00; £7,599.00) Limited Edition: $US 12,999 (RRP – €11,999.00; £10,499.00) Pokémon by Stern Pinball games feature Stern’s best-in-class commercial quality reliability backed by a pinball best-in-class one-year warranty. About Insider Connected Insider Connected™ is Stern Pinball’s community network that allows players and owners to engage with pinball games in rapidly expanding ways. The platform unites pinball players worldwide and enhances the fun through a variety of useful online features. Insider Connected is included with every new Stern product and is available as an add-on for existing games. Registration for Insider Connected is available at insider.sternpinball.com or in the intuitive Insider Connected™ mobile app on iOS and Android. By tapping a device on any enabled machine, players can track and resume game progress wherever they play, earn new game-specific achievements, engage with the pinball community, and participate in promotions and Challenge Quests. In addition to offering benefits to players, Insider Connected allows Stern to serve its game owners worldwide by upgrading games, offering new features and quests, and extending the longevity of machines for years to come. About Stern Pinball, Inc. Stern Pinball, Inc. creates compelling entertainment that inspires a lifetime love of games, sparks passion, forges friendships, and connects people everywhere through fun, innovative, technologically advanced pinball games and experiences. Headquartered minutes from Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport in the heart of North America, the company creates, designs, engineers, manufactures, markets, and distributes a full line of technologically advanced terrestrial and digital pinball games, parts, accessories, and merchandise. Stern Pinball serves digital, consumer, commercial, and corporate markets worldwide. Recent Stern Pinball titles include The Walking Dead Remastered, Star Wars, King Kong, Dungeons & Dragons, Metallica Remastered, The Uncanny X-Men, John Wick, JAWS, Venom, Foo Fighters, James Bond, Rush, Godzilla, The Mandalorian, Led Zeppelin, Avengers: Infinity Quest, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Stranger Things, Elvira’s House of Horrors, Jurassic Park, Black Knight: Sword of Rage, The Munsters, The Beatles, Deadpool, Iron Maiden, Guardians of the Galaxy, Star Wars, Aerosmith, Ghostbusters, KISS, Metallica, Game of Thrones, The Walking Dead, Star Trek, AC/DC, Batman, and Spider-Man. A broad range of players enjoy Stern Pinball’s games, from professional pinball players competing in high-stakes global competitions to novice players discovering the allure of the silver ball for the first time. To join the fun and learn more, please visit www.sternpinball.com. About Pokémon The Pokémon Company International, a subsidiary of The Pokémon Company in Japan, manages the property outside of Asia and is responsible for brand management, licensing and marketing, the Pokémon Trading Card Game, the animated TV series, home entertainment, and the official Pokémon website. Pokémon was launched in Japan in 1996 and today is one of the most popular children’s entertainment properties in the world. For more information, visit www.pokemon.com. All trademarks and product names are the property of their respective companies."