There we’re whispers back in June this year that Stern, the longest running pinball manufacturer in the world we’re hinting at the launch of yet another themed pinball machine. Word on the street was that this time round it was to be X-Men, pinheads and Marvel fans across the world waited with baited breath.
In July our suspicions we’re confirmed, the next pin off the production line over in Chicago was indeed to be X-Men and it was coming out in not one, but three different versions. Two LE (Limited Edition) versions in either the red colour way with magneto side art, the blue colour way with Wolverine side art and lastly the X-Men Pro edition.
The main difference between the LE editions and the Pro is that the LE has a few extra play field features such as spinning disk and night crawler pop ups. I feel the Pro represents better value for money with the LE Editions commanding a retail price in excess of £6000 rather that the £4795 of the Pro edition.
As a pin collector, I can honestly say I prefer the style of the Stern X-Men Pro pinball machine. I prefer a clear play field as it gives you a better chance of hitting the ramps and features. My first pinball was Circus Voltaire by Bally, made back in 1997, which has wonderful space allowing for a real flow when you play. I am a bit fan of bright artwork on my pins, deep games and lots of multi-ball features so when we unpacked the X-Men Pro and started her up, I was so excited to hit the Magneto multi ball within a very short space of time.
The X-Men Pro is one of the best Stern pinball machines I have played on in a long time. As a die hard fan of the 90‘s Bally/Williams machines, I have been won over by Stern's new release. They have done a fantastic job of producing a thoroughly enjoyable game with real longevity for the home player.
Home Leisure Direct - Stockist of Official UK Stern Pinball Machines
Retailer of CE Certificated Stern Pinball Machines
Written By: Michelle Beresford