March traditionally brings fresh pinball announcements, and 2023 is starting to restore that familiar rhythm. Stern Pinball, Jersey Jack Pinball and American Pinball have each offered an early look at upcoming projects, although most details remain under wraps.
Stern Pinball: Foo Fighters setlist revealed
Stern has confirmed that rock band Foo Fighters will be the theme of its next machine. The company first outlined a slow burn rollout of news across the following week, although Facebook appeared to contradict part of that plan by indicating that the photographs and information would arrive on Stern’s website the next day.
The first reveal was the music selection. Stern published the Foo Fighters pinball setlist through its social channels, with songs spanning the band’s catalogue. The post was dated February 27, 2023.
The setlist announcement included a link to @FooFighters and an accompanying image: pic.twitter.com/CSKReYx9cD
The animations trailer has since appeared, but gameplay footage was not available at this stage.
Jersey Jack Pinball’s mystery project
Jersey Jack Pinball has shared only a teaser image so far, leaving fans to speculate about the licence. The Godfather and John Wick have led the guesses, while other observers believe it could be a Harry Potter pin.
Rumours identify Eric Meunier as the designer. There is also speculation that Steve Ritchie is supposed to be making another game, raising the question of when that project might be formally announced.
For now, the theme remains unconfirmed.
American Pinball teases Game #5
American Pinball’s next release is currently known as Game #5. The early teaser initially offered few clues, but an update identified the title as Galactic Tank Force, described as an original design rather than a licensed theme. Pinballnews.com reported the title and concept.
The cast includes Kerri Hoskins, known to Midway fans for playing Sonya Blade in Mortal Kombat 3 and Mortal Kombat 4, as well as appearing in other Midway games. The identities and roles of the remaining actors had not yet been explained.
At this point, the promotional material was available through American Pinball’s Facebook and Instagram channels. If the embedded video is unavailable, try this direct link.
What happens next?
There was still plenty to learn about all three machines. Jersey Jack and American Pinball were not listed with booths on the current Amusement Expo 2023 map, although either company could potentially appear through a distributor booth.
Galactic Tank Force was scheduled to appear at the Texas Pinball Festival. Whether the other games would be shown at Amusement Expo, a distributor stand or a later event was unclear.
New machines give collectors more choice, even when the high cost of a pinball table makes buying difficult. For readers planning a home arcade, our arcade machine buying guide covers the practical considerations, while virtual pinball machines offer another way to enjoy the format. You can also browse the wider arcade news and gaming blog for more industry updates.
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