The Aussie Pinball Arcade
Aussie Pinball Forums => Pinball Reviews => DMD 1991 - Present => Topic started by: Strangeways on January 01, 2015, 08:42:40 PM
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It is unfamiliar territory for me, a restorer, to review a NIB game - but I thought I'd give it an honest attempt at reviewing a "The Walking Dead" LE that I unboxed with the new owner and friends. Now this is MY review, and it is NOT going to make everyone happy, or be the negative diatribe that people may expect. I may have to stick to restoring games - as it might not be everyone's "cup of tea"..
REVIEW TIME !
The game was delivered around 2 weeks ago at APR. It has been sitting here waiting for the Repair Kit from Stern as per their recent Bulletin. I was told NOT to play the game until the kit arrives. That is VERY disappointing, but almost expected from Stern's QA dept.. Off to a bad start..
But here is the game in the box ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/misc/TWD/TWD%20003.JPG)
Already out of the box. No, we didn't follow the instructions on unboxing..
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/misc/TWD/TWD%20005.JPG)
First thing we noticed was a metal rear panel on the headbox, a new bolt system for the head to bolt to the body and the metal leg protectors ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/misc/TWD/TWD%20006.JPG)
The right side of the game. artwork is amazing !
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/misc/TWD/TWD%20008.JPG)
A seriously detailed backglass (edit - it is a translite). The artwork is simply amazing !
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/misc/TWD/TWD%20018.JPG)
Setup - but not ready to play. A VERY nice package.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/misc/TWD/TWD%20020.JPG)
Playfield is really well set out and the graphics are incredible. The horror theme is very well transferred to the pinball by the artists.
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/misc/TWD/TWD%20022.JPG)
So what is the reason we can't play it yet ? The "Bicycle Girl" ramp SLAMS into the playfield and creates divots in the wafer thin clearcoat. So Stern's brainstrust sent us two very small foam pads with adhesive backing to fit under the ramp, so it does not slam into the playfield. There is a small patch of very thin mylar in situ - but that already had a hole in it from factory testing ! So we placed the foam on the ramp and also installed another TWO longer pieces of real mylar. Stern also sent out a replacement ramp protector to stop those nasty fly balls - or maybe to distract the owner from the two divots they have in their playfield ?
It is real amateur hour at Stern with these "fixes". The Easiest way to fix the problem was to place a piece of rubber or plastic on the metal suport in an upside down "U" shape. There's a cavity where the ramp itself hits a rubber stopper to stop the ramp from flying up too hard. Just do the same for when the ramp drops ? Maybe replace the spring in the mechanism ? A less powerful spring sounds too obvious.
Here's a picture of the old plastic piece that was on the ramp. I placed it under the actual ramp as a "brake". So easy to create something here - even a 3D Printer mod to place on the metal part ?
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/misc/TWD/TWD%20011.JPG)
Here is the mylar we added ;
(http://australianpinballrestorations.com.au/pictures/misc/TWD/TWD%20012.JPG)
The Cabinet
Amazing. Simply jaw dropping with the artwork. NOT "kid friendly", and definitely not for "non horror" fans. The metal plate on the headbox (rear) is a nice touch and the new bolt system to hold the head up is good thinking. Two rubbers are on the headbox so that when you lower the head, it had the rubber inbetween the headbox and the siderails - nice design !
The backglass is a translite. Should be a backglass.
The game is a horror theme, but the designer placed a colur changing LED in the Crosbow button. Um... pink and blue look VERY stuoid on this game. I'd be replacing the button with a black or red opaque button very quickly, and placing the factory button on the Stern Tinkerbell LE...
I give the cabinet a 9/10. Best cabinet artwork I've ever seen on a pinball.
Playfield
Amazing artwork. Attention to detail with clear plastics having "blood splatter" on them really gave the impression that "something" was butchered on the playfield. a really GREAT effect. ALL the artwork is amazing.
Design is almost good. Here's the BIGGEST problem with this game. In ALL pinball machines, the object is to progress through modes and achieve high scores. The objective of this game is to totally AVOID the Prison. Whoever "thought" that placing a magnet in a DIRECT line inbetween the flippers is a MORON !!! IF the magnet catches the ball and does not "flick" the ball into plastics or ramps... then it SLOWLY releases the ball - SDTM. EVERY TIME - WITHOUT FAIL. So remove the tilt on this game IF you want to play the game as if it was "normal". Initially, during the honeymoon period - it is funny - but then it is the most annoying piece of crap on ANY pinball machine I've played. I counted the ball being captured in a 4 player game - and out of the 12 balls - 10 were lost because of this STUPID design. Yes - occasionally - the magnet "flips" the ball, but the best strategy is to remove the tilt plumb, and shake the game while pressing the flipper buttons in the hope that the ball will be tossed or flipped rather than dropped SDTM. There's NO excuse for the moron that put the magnet there. Really dumbass. Then the SDTM "guide" off the Arena. The solution ? Place a Bally / Williams rubber post so that it stops the SDTM. WOW. Did ANYONE field test this table ?
(Note - It does drop the ball SDTM LESS with the code update to 1.19)
The Skillshot is cool. The pop bumpers are a blast. You CAN make a coffee while waiting for the pops to finish, and you will have the ball returned if the ball drains after a 20 minute wait for the ball to be released to the flipper (on the odd occasion it does not drop SDTM). I wish the brainiac that implemented this ball return worked on the magnet issues.
Ramp shots are brilliant. I love the flow of the ramps. The Arena ramp does have issues with flyballs that needs to be addressed. Multiball CDC Ramp rewards are very good.
Bash toy is really good. There's a RED LED that lights up the guts. cool effect. Keep bashing the bash toy for Well Walker multiball - this is when you pound the prison as the ball is returned while the well walker mode is active. You can progress from the well walker multiball to the Prison multiball - but the ball return coil would be red hot while this is happening !
Bicycle Girl bash toy is great fun. Prison is a part of the game that needs to be finished - it is just random as to when the door opens, and when the magnet catches your ball to drain it for you.
Drop targets - Great placement and they help you progress through the modes. Crossbow is surplus. No real point other than after you shoot the ball, you can't see where the ball is because the crossbow takes too long to return back on to the apron.
Playfield with shipped code (Prison problem) - 4/10
Playfield with updated code (Prison problem seems to be partly alleviated with shaking the game, and flipping both buttons and the ball ALWAYS is thrown) - 8/10
Sounds - AWESOME ! I love the soundtrack, the music and the corpse grinding. The calls outs are very annoying. Some redneck trailer park drunk that makes no sense at all. In fact, with the shipping code (1.1), I had a 15 minute game and could not progress any further as there was nothing to shoot for, so I captured the ball on the left flipper and pulsed the right flipper for a status report, and it gave me an "Extra Baaalll"... Unreal.
Sound package - 8/10
Other strange things - There's a woodscrew doing nothing above the top pop bumper. Just sitting there - doing nothing except maybe keeping the ball away from resting there ? The "Extra Ball" Woodbury shot can sometimes bounce of the siderail and back into play, denying you of the Extra Ball. The piece of plastic over the entrance to the Bicycle Girl ramp needs to be re tightened every 20 or so games. It was completely loose ! I also had "Switch Error 60" in the diagnostic report - Switch 60 is "not used" !
The GOOD
Amazing art package
Great theme
Great soundtrack and sound effects
Playfield layout and design has potential, but needs simple code completion to be a winner
Fantastic player ONLY if you avoid the Prison
The BAD
Clearcoat is very very bad. Wafer thin. After 20 games it looks like the surface of an Orange peel.
The Bicycle ramp "fix" - Seriously ? Two little pads ?
Prison Magnet - Did ANYONE at Stern test the game BEFORE sending it out ? Why implement a DELIBERATE design fault to capture the ball and deploy it SDTM ?
Call outs - PLEASE have some characters from the show..
Modes - Siege and Horde - do they work ?
Before the code update - I renamed the game - "TWD SDTM LE". It was that bad.
CODE
Had a LOT of problems with the shipping code. The game "lost itself" a couple of times - nothing lit to shoot, and a status report gave me an Extra Ball !
Prison Magnet. This needs to be fixed, or simply disable the magnet to make the game playable again. I would recommend disabling the magnet until the code fixes this issue.
After 20 games on the old code, I could not score over 80 million. Two games after the code update and I could progress through modes and I have 108 and then 205 Million after 20 games.
VERDICT
A VERY good game AFTER some of the issues are addressed. Unfinished code is Stern's biggest hurdle and if I can spot serious issues after 20 games, why can't their testers pick up the problems ?
As a playing game - immensely enjoyable. I really like the flow and the ramps. Very well designed except for the Prison Magnet placement.
It is not a $10,000 game. It is a $7,000 game at best. For $10,000 - I would want the extras - topper, a spare playfield with a real clearcoat, a set of plastics, a set of ramps and a $1000 voucher for my next Stern purchase.
I rate the game as a 7/10. With simple code fixes - 9/10 - If the game was sold for $7000 - I would own it.
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Great review mate, appreciate the detail. I still want to get my hands on one of these for a few games (hopefully one that's been set up and dialed in properly given your observations) as the theme certainly attracts me.
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Great theme and it does look nice
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Great read, thanks for taking the time.
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Another tedious design issue is that the outlane posts can be moved as the plastics set was designed with the holes to allow for the screwdriver to access the posts screws. BUT you need to remove both ramps to access the screws ! So an operator wanting to make the game easier, needs to pull apart a few items before adjusting the posts.
This could be a big problem IF an operator sited the game and wanted a 5 minute fix to make the game easier.
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Great read, thanks for taking the time.
yep ^^^
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Excellent review thank-you. I was havin the SDTM problem with the magnet (on a location pro) but learnt how to time a little nudge as it released the ball. Now it seems to flick the ball a little to the left on release - not sure if this is due to the code or some physical change.
PS more reviews of other machines would be very welcome! ^^^
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What was the point in reviewing/playing the game with the shipped code when there was an update for the software available before you unboxed it, ::)
Why would you bother!!
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What was the point in reviewing/playing the game with the shipped code when there was an update for the software available before you unboxed it, ::)
Why would you bother!!
1 - I was unaware of any updates until I started digging for solutions for the prison magnet issues and the fact the game clearly has unfinished code.
2 - having a NIB game sitting for two weeks waiting for 2 pieces of foam kinda distracts from code issues.
3 - How long should I wait until it is an appropriate time to write up a review ? When the code is finally finished ? When will that be ?
Your comments only highlight the biggest issue Stern face with prospective buyers. Lack of testing and unfinished code. Why don't you contact Stern and ASK them why they present the game to the public unfinished ?
Also, can you explain to me how the code updates will address the out lane post adjustment ?
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What was the point in reviewing/playing the game with the shipped code when there was an update for the software available before you unboxed it, ::)
Why would you bother!!
1 - I was unaware of any updates until I started digging for solutions for the prison magnet issues and the fact the game clearly has unfinished code.
2 - having a NIB game sitting for two weeks waiting for 2 pieces of foam kinda distracts from code issues.
3 - How long should I wait until it is an appropriate time to write up a review ? When the code is finally finished ? When will that be ?
Your comments only highlight the biggest issue Stern face with prospective buyers. Lack of testing and unfinished code. Why don't you contact Stern and ASK them why they present the game to the public unfinished ?
Also, can you explain to me how the code updates will address the out lane post adjustment ?
As per your points
1 - We both know thats not true as your customer/friend was told about the code update before the machine was delivered
2 - You could of unboxed the machine when it arrived,I did with mine
3 - Right a review with the latest available code installed
Games shipped with unfinished code is what it is ,if it bothers you buy the game S/H in 12 months time the only way to stop it is not to buy sight unseen.
As far as the inlane post adjustment this is nothing new on some titles,AC/DC and Xmen to name a few ,its not that hard to loosen a few screws to get to them.Im sure even you could manage that.
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I am impressed.
This was a honest review.
I did play both the LE and the Pro and surprisingly never once got a magnet straight down the middle and the magnet threw the ball off in a random direction every time on both the Pro models and the one LE. It was the original shipping code as well. I am guessing that the magnet on the various games has an alignment or strength randomness to it/them.
Your review was straight from the heart and was technically sound.
I am not as mechanically harsh with the engineering of a game because the "imperfectness" of any pinball is what makes them unique and interesting and unusually attractive to me.
If a game doesn't have its quirky personality disorders, then it becomes just like any other.
I actually like a game that gives you a lot of "straight down the middles" because it wakes you up and makes you stay alert.
Any game that makes you swear at it often gets my tick of approval if that makes sense.
Even though I am a blatant Stern fan, I found the review to be very honest cause a real review has both goods and bads. When I do a review I try to be very light on the criticisms because I worry that someone might change their mind and not buy the game which I wouldn't want to happen but you can't have ya cake and eat it too.
A good review has both the goods and the bads.
Your review was very honest. Can't ask for anything more than that. ^^^
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I swear F...... B.... at all my machines even though they are not on FB.
The dimpling on Stern playfields is normal under shiny light and does not affect play.
The magnet STDG issue sounds similar to my Star Trek. I stuck a level across the playfield front and back and found one side about half a degree lower. I adjusted one leg and guess what! No more STDG.
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I swear F...... B.... at all my machines even though they are not on FB.
The dimpling on Stern playfields is normal under shiny light and does not affect play.
The magnet STDG issue sounds similar to my Star Trek. I stuck a level across the playfield front and back and found one side about half a degree lower. I adjusted one leg and guess what! No more STDG.
Exactly right ^^^ you have to dial all new games in :) you can't expect to pull a game out of a box and expect it to be 100% beleive it or not even the old Bally/Williams games had issues out of the box and the good thing about new games like JJP/Stern a code update can fix most issues *%* geez I had to change a Rom to get ball save on my WH20 lol
120 games in on my Walking Dead and maybe 5 SDTM %$% Prison MB is a blast killing walkers is fun :lol
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What was the point in reviewing/playing the game with the shipped code when there was an update for the software available before you unboxed it, ::)
Why would you bother!!
1 - I was unaware of any updates until I started digging for solutions for the prison magnet issues and the fact the game clearly has unfinished code.
2 - having a NIB game sitting for two weeks waiting for 2 pieces of foam kinda distracts from code issues.
3 - How long should I wait until it is an appropriate time to write up a review ? When the code is finally finished ? When will that be ?
Your comments only highlight the biggest issue Stern face with prospective buyers. Lack of testing and unfinished code. Why don't you contact Stern and ASK them why they present the game to the public unfinished ?
Also, can you explain to me how the code updates will address the out lane post adjustment ?
As per your points
1 - We both know thats not true as your customer/friend was told about the code update before the machine was delivered
2 - You could of unboxed the machine when it arrived,I did with mine
3 - Right a review with the latest available code installed
Games shipped with unfinished code is what it is ,if it bothers you buy the game S/H in 12 months time the only way to stop it is not to buy sight unseen.
As far as the inlane post adjustment this is nothing new on some titles,AC/DC and Xmen to name a few ,its not that hard to loosen a few screws to get to them.Im sure even you could manage that.
It would be a great idea to read the review in entirety, but to answer your assumptions ;
1 - No "we" don't know.. I spoke to the "customer" this afternoon, and he confirmed that he had a couple of conversations regarding the game with the distributor and yourself, and his comment to me was "I don't remember anyone mentioning the code update". If it was mentioned, it was never passed on from the customer to me - so I had NO knowledge of the code update until the next day when I mentioned the issues with the game - with the customer.
2 - I quote the customer - " I just got off the phone with the distributor and we will not be unboxing the machine until the ramp kit arrives". Customer has the last say. So NO, I could not have unboxed the game due to the hold up.
3 - OK. I'll delete the thread then ? I'll sit on the Stern support page and refresh the "code page" every half hour !@)
If Stern are happy to take the customer's money, then there should be NO PROBLEMS dealing with game reviews. POSITIVE game reviews = more sales. If you read my review, you would also notice that I mentioned the code update SEVERAL TIMES. You would also notice that I rated the code from a 4/10 - 8/10 once updated. Did you even read my review ?
Just on that - It is MY review. I really wanted to go through the process and enjoy it. It is 100% accurate ? To me, "yes". To others "no". I didn't write my review to please the Stern fanbois, or welcome the Stern bashers. This is the review of a passionate pinball person that had the opportunity to unbox a pinball for the first time in 30 years. Instead of restoring a game, I had the opportunity to try something different. If you cared to read my review instead of poking holes and replying with assumptions, you may have read my conclusion ;
"With simple code fixes - 9/10 - If the game was sold for $7000 - I would own it."
If anything, I'm promoting the game. I fail to see how posting absurd personal crap like "its not that hard to loosen a few screws to get to them.Im sure even you could manage that" is helpful ? Insulting me because I could not find that extra 1/10 to make the game a perfect 10/10 - WTF ?
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I am impressed.
This was a honest review.
I did play both the LE and the Pro and surprisingly never once got a magnet straight down the middle and the magnet threw the ball off in a random direction every time on both the Pro models and the one LE. It was the original shipping code as well. I am guessing that the magnet on the various games has an alignment or strength randomness to it/them.
Your review was straight from the heart and was technically sound.
I am not as mechanically harsh with the engineering of a game because the "imperfectness" of any pinball is what makes them unique and interesting and unusually attractive to me.
If a game doesn't have its quirky personality disorders, then it becomes just like any other.
I actually like a game that gives you a lot of "straight down the middles" because it wakes you up and makes you stay alert.
Any game that makes you swear at it often gets my tick of approval if that makes sense.
Even though I am a blatant Stern fan, I found the review to be very honest cause a real review has both goods and bads. When I do a review I try to be very light on the criticisms because I worry that someone might change their mind and not buy the game which I wouldn't want to happen but you can't have ya cake and eat it too.
A good review has both the goods and the bads.
Your review was very honest. Can't ask for anything more than that. ^^^
The problem was not that the ball was being "thrown" SDTM - that is totally random and I have no issue with that.
What was happening with the shipping code - on most occasions - the ball was captured and is held completely still by the magnet. After a short period of time, the magnet dis engages (not "throw" or "slingshot"), but literally was dropping the ball SDTM. AFTER the code update, I noticed the ball was captured but rarely dropped SDTM. By this time, I had read other reviews and found that you can flip both flippers and the magnet will "pulse" rather than "throw" the ball from the Prison magnet.
Either Magnet "throwing" the ball randomly, resulting in a SDTM is fine with me. But simply stopping the ball, and just standing there waiting for the ball to drop was annoying (Ver 1.0 code).
Anyway - thanks for taking the time to read my review - as you know, I'm not exactly Stern's biggest fan, but this game is very good.
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Did the distributor open the box then repackage and send to you Nino? AMD and Cashbox do this :) I highly recommend they do as Chicago is a long way away and things can come loose :) it's unfortunate that the distributor didn't mention code updates as rule number 1 is boot machine if boots ok then update code but if it's checked first AMD update code :)
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Great review, thanks for the detailed appraisal..That cabinet quality, the higher grade of decals with a slight textured finish and the nice touch with the rubber on the headbox are all welcome improvements. No doubt helped along with the current competition they have.
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Did the distributor open the box then repackage and send to you Nino? AMD and Cashbox do this :) I highly recommend they do as Chicago is a long way away and things can come loose :) it's unfortunate that the distributor didn't mention code updates as rule number 1 is boot machine if boots ok then update code but if it's checked first AMD update code :)
No - It was purchased from a Stern Agent and we unboxed it the day the kit arrived - The distributor was fantastic to deal with, and the customer has had previous GREAT experiences. Cashbox are no longer a Stern Agent / Distributor.
Code Updates may have been mentioned - but not to me. I'm not a Stern agent, I'm just helping out a friend by setting up the game and installing the ramp kit. I also was more than happy to accept the opportunity to have the game in my showroom to review and for potential customers to see "in person" and maybe have a game. Almost "free promotion" - even though the LE's are sold out, you can still buy PROs and the new Premium.
Keep in mind - I'm new to the Stern NIB "setup", so some of the finer details are part of the experience for me. I did assist with a Transformers unboxing (no code updates etc) - but previous to that - it was a Bally Space Invaders in 1980. So there are some things I need to learn.
Before anyone asks the question - I am NOT a Stern Agent or Distributor. It is a customer's machine and I'm more than happy to have the game in my showroom for members to drop in for a look. Who knows - maybe a few orders might go Stern's way &&
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Did the distributor open the box then repackage and send to you Nino? AMD and Cashbox do this :) I highly recommend they do as Chicago is a long way away and things can come loose :) it's unfortunate that the distributor didn't mention code updates as rule number 1 is boot machine if boots ok then update code but if it's checked first AMD update code :)
No - It was purchased from a Stern Agent and we unboxed it the day the kit arrived - The distributor was fantastic to deal with, and the customer has had previous GREAT experiences. Cashbox are no longer a Stern Agent / Distributor.
Code Updates may have been mentioned - but not to me. I'm not a Stern agent, I'm just helping out a friend by setting up the game and installing the ramp kit. I also was more than happy to accept the opportunity to have the game in my showroom to review and for potential customers to see "in person" and maybe have a game. Almost "free promotion" - even though the LE's are sold out, you can still buy PROs and the new Premium.
Keep in mind - I'm new to the Stern NIB "setup", so some of the finer details are part of the experience for me. I did assist with a Transformers unboxing (no code updates etc) - but previous to that - it was a Bally Space Invaders in 1980. So there are some things I need to learn.
Before anyone asks the question - I am NOT a Stern Agent or Distributor. It is a customer's machine and I'm more than happy to have the game in my showroom for members to drop in for a look. Who knows - maybe a few orders might go Stern's way &&
Cool no worries :) yeah I know about Cashbox but they where when I got Tron and ACDC :) I'm sure he'll enjoy his new LE it looks great.
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Did the distributor open the box then repackage and send to you Nino? AMD and Cashbox do this :) I highly recommend they do as Chicago is a long way away and things can come loose :) it's unfortunate that the distributor didn't mention code updates as rule number 1 is boot machine if boots ok then update code but if it's checked first AMD update code :)
No - It was purchased from a Stern Agent and we unboxed it the day the kit arrived - The distributor was fantastic to deal with, and the customer has had previous GREAT experiences. Cashbox are no longer a Stern Agent / Distributor.
Code Updates may have been mentioned - but not to me. I'm not a Stern agent, I'm just helping out a friend by setting up the game and installing the ramp kit. I also was more than happy to accept the opportunity to have the game in my showroom to review and for potential customers to see "in person" and maybe have a game. Almost "free promotion" - even though the LE's are sold out, you can still buy PROs and the new Premium.
Keep in mind - I'm new to the Stern NIB "setup", so some of the finer details are part of the experience for me. I did assist with a Transformers unboxing (no code updates etc) - but previous to that - it was a Bally Space Invaders in 1980. So there are some things I need to learn.
Before anyone asks the question - I am NOT a Stern Agent or Distributor. It is a customer's machine and I'm more than happy to have the game in my showroom for members to drop in for a look. Who knows - maybe a few orders might go Stern's way &&
Cool no worries :) yeah I know about Cashbox but they where when I got Tron and ACDC :) I'm sure he'll enjoy his new LE it looks great.
He will - he is popping in tomorrow and we will have a few games no doubt.
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Great review Nino
As everyone knows if 10 people reviewed the same machine there would be 10 different opinions. Thankyou for your honest opinion.
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Did the distributor open the box then repackage and send to you Nino? AMD and Cashbox do this :) I highly recommend they do as Chicago is a long way away and things can come loose :) it's unfortunate that the distributor didn't mention code updates as rule number 1 is boot machine if boots ok then update code but if it's checked first AMD update code :)
+1
I'm with you Pete
while I've opened most NIB's myself that I've brought in the past
I have had Joe and Gibo open several games to check (Luci motor) ,
update (Luci & TF code), install stern fix kits (TF combo) before shipping to me.
KJWHF Amusements in WA thats the best place to buy NIB Stern's IMO,
as far away as WA is, Joe still has the best after sales service.
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KJWHF Amusements in WA thats the best place to buy NIB Stern's IMO,
as far away as WA is, Joe still has the best after sales service.
Yep!
It was interesting reading your review Nino as I have a TWD LE too!
I haven't really had any issues with balls going SDTG.
Something I have noticed with mine is that most of the ball returns to the flippers are right on the end of the flippers.
For me, this has made the game a little frantic to play and kind of keeps me on edge a bit as I keep thinking that I'm going to loose the ball.
I'm loving it though. #*#
I'm thinking of shortening the Bicycle Girl ramp and putting a longer ramp flap on to get around the rubber on the ramp thing.
I not sure, have to look at it a little closer.
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KJWHF Amusements in WA thats the best place to buy NIB Stern's IMO,
as far away as WA is, Joe still has the best after sales service.
Yep!
It was interesting reading your review Nino as I have a TWD LE too!
I haven't really had any issues with balls going SDTG.
Something I have noticed with mine is that most of the ball returns to the flippers are right on the end of the flippers.
For me, this has made the game a little frantic to play and kind of keeps me on edge a bit as I keep thinking that I'm going to loose the ball.
I'm loving it though. #*#
I'm thinking of shortening the Bicycle Girl ramp and putting a longer ramp flap on to get around the rubber on the ramp thing.
I not sure, have to look at it a little closer.
Since the code update - The owner and I spent some time observing the issue - and we agreed it has been resolved. There are a number of other changes - I think some of the modes reward more points. Obtaining the Well Walker multiball and then belting the Prison gives the 4 ball multiball and then the game racks up SERIOUS points. I've obtained over 50 "kills" a few times now. I still can't work out "Horde" mode yet. No show stopper - the game is very very good the way it is. Best score is still 205 Million and I have had 3 games around the 185 Million.
I had a customer's daughter play the game - and she loved it.
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Good to hear it's code updated and you guys are having fun with it.
Just been watching the whole season 4 again of The Walking Dead show on disc set.
After watching the DVD set and playing the game, you realise what a great job they did on the Stern pinny.
I have heard KJWHF are great Stern agents.
But WA is a long way away so I stick with Bruce and Michael from Sydney AMD.
It seems all these Stern guys give great customer support. Stern USA would be impressed.
Worth noting, that I have never had any of my brand new in box Stern games inspected prior to them being sent out and have never had a issue with a game after setup and games have been faultless for ages. It speaks volumes for the quality of the games these days.
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KJWHF Amusements in WA thats the best place to buy NIB Stern's IMO,
as far away as WA is, Joe still has the best after sales service.
Yep!
It was interesting reading your review Nino as I have a TWD LE too!
I haven't really had any issues with balls going SDTG.
Something I have noticed with mine is that most of the ball returns to the flippers are right on the end of the flippers.
For me, this has made the game a little frantic to play and kind of keeps me on edge a bit as I keep thinking that I'm going to loose the ball.
I'm loving it though. #*#
I'm thinking of shortening the Bicycle Girl ramp and putting a longer ramp flap on to get around the rubber on the ramp thing.
I not sure, have to look at it a little closer.
Since the code update - The owner and I spent some time observing the issue - and we agreed it has been resolved. There are a number of other changes - I think some of the modes reward more points. Obtaining the Well Walker multiball and then belting the Prison gives the 4 ball multiball and then the game racks up SERIOUS points. I've obtained over 50 "kills" a few times now. I still can't work out "Horde" mode yet. No show stopper - the game is very very good the way it is. Best score is still 205 Million and I have had 3 games around the 185 Million.
I had a customer's daughter play the game - and she loved it.
That's a good score Nino around the 200 million :) can't remember if I've mentioned it here but the shot through the tunnel orbit then through the pops which comes around to the left flipper then slam the ball with the flipper and it'll rocket up the arena ramp it's a blast and as far as I'm concerned it's the best and fastest combo in any pinball I've played :) I added the Woodbury sign but I can see why Stern didn't lol see below.
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/05/92a612615bcb93fc207f7c4d4882a852.jpg)
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I like the Barn orbit shot that if hit VERY hard, slams into the RHS pop bumper and then gets belted across the rollovers and into the Bonus Multiplier. It might not sound like much, but it is a fun and unique shot. I think my favorite shots are both ramps during multiball - try doing it with all four balls and every single lamp and flasher going off ! The sounds are just incredible.
Oh - and know I know why the Well Walker is so pissed off !
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^^^^ lol well walker :) can you bash it out or glass off??
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^^^^ lol well walker :) can you bash it out or glass off??
Had to remove the glass to retrieve the ball. The "stuck ball" routine didn't move the lazy bugger..
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Had that problem too..
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Just found a Pro version of this on site and plugged $4 into it for a 2 player game.
Has to be one of the most hum drum games ive ever played... it is incredibly lack lustre.
$8000 to buy....
I walked away after $4... walking dead alright
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Here's a Stern video about the making of The Walking Dead :) most of the design team featured :) This title is one of there best games ever made and highly desirable!
https://www.facebook.com/sternpinball/videos/10153953558179244/
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Just found a Pro version of this on site and plugged $4 into it for a 2 player game.
Has to be one of the most hum drum games ive ever played... it is incredibly lack lustre.
$8000 to buy....
I walked away after $4... walking dead alright
I've played the LE and I like it but I have heard some bad reviews on the Pro.
Has anyone here done a direct comparison?
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Just found a Pro version of this on site and plugged $4 into it for a 2 player game.
Has to be one of the most hum drum games ive ever played... it is incredibly lack lustre.
$8000 to buy....
I walked away after $4... walking dead alright
I've played the LE and I like it but I have heard some bad reviews on the Pro.
Has anyone here done a direct comparison?
I once owned the pro and it's an awesome game :) never played the LE but I've heard the opposite where LE owners said the toys aren't worth the extra coin go the pro :) but that's pinball everyone has a different view on games. When I sold my pro I could have sold another 5 :) crazy popular.
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The premium/le has this cross bow thing that seems to trap the ball on the apron and you have to shake the hell out of the game and go through ball searches. Its a real deal breaker for me. Also I find a lot of air balls especially flying off the ramps that also ruined game play for me. This occurred more times than not.
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Pro is faster. Played the LE as well & never had a issue with the cross bow shot after playing it 20 plus times.
Maybe that LE needed an adjustment ?
I like the artwork on the Pro. Red and gore zombies work a lot better for the artwork but both models are awesome.
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I just didn't get it... not sure why this is meant to be a great game.
Single bumper 2 ramps and nothing much more to shoot for.. wheres the game?
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The premium/le has this cross bow thing that seems to trap the ball on the apron and you have to shake the hell out of the game and go through ball searches. Its a real deal breaker for me. Also I find a lot of air balls especially flying off the ramps that also ruined game play for me. This occurred more times than not.
That crossbow mech was defective from the beginning. Had a mate in the US with a similar problem so you are not alone in that observation.
In the end he had to disassemble it from the machine and send the entire crossbow mech back to Stern for a replacement.
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Being a fan of the show I had high hopes for this one. Only played the LE so not sure if the cut down pro is different, but pretty ho-hum.
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It is not a crossbow! it is a " frikin lazer cannon" but on AP it is much cooler %$%
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It makes it sooo much better if u love the show and love zombies.
The Pro plays real fast & loose and that's why killing zombies at a fast rate is soo much fun.
Cranked up, the game is soooo much more entertaining. I love the Pro. It's a looker and a fast player if u give it time and learn the game objectives. The DMD animations are very very good.
Play the game where u can hear the callouts loudly and study the game rules & it comes alive achieving things in order but being such a fast wide open game, that's the challenge.
Lit up in the dark, the Pro transliteration and playfield looks great.
Substituting a few bright white LEDs on the Pro to a few colour changing LEDs is the go.
Change about 20 percent in different locations and again, it is even better.
The topper lit up is unreal.
Diverse titles across the collection makes it fun for everyone that visits and the more new Sterns the better in my books. If you like Borgys style of scoring, this also helps.
Cranked up, it becomes a cool horror show of gore.
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Oh I don't mind the show... we normally wait for the series to come out on DVD and watch them over a few weekends.
Yes - the playfield lighting really misses the mark on this game. Why Stern would consider all cold white inserts on a game that is based around blood and rotting flesh is beyond me. It would have looked far more visually appealing if it had deep red upper PF going through to a deep green at the apron. When they make a game that is based around entering the pearly gates of heaven, stark white lighting would be the way to go... not zombies.
The game retails in Australia at $8100.. im assuming that this is not including delivery, so lets call it $8500 delivered. Its a chunk of cash.
Unfortunately, its not a chunk of pinball. Its so scaled back to basics that you have to use quite a bit of imagination to elevate this to anywhere near exciting. In all honesty, its a bit of a lemon...... my 15 yr old son who played it with me thought it was dull and boring.
Had it retailed for $3995 you could tell yourself that's the price you pay for a basic machine and you get what you pay for.
At over $8K you are either telling yourself its something that its not... have more money than sense or are happy with anything so long as it has flippers and a ball.
Its a great theme that fails to deliver.
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The show was good but it has gotten to the point of jumping the shark in season 6, plot lines are getting stupid.
The game is good but not brilliant, there are heaps of better games around.
Played the LE and the Pro and I prefer the LE.
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John Borg told me the bright white LED lighting on the Pro is to simulate the floodlighting at the Prison etc etc.
If the Aus dollar was at its ACDC levels the Pro would be $6300 to $7000.
Alas the shit dollar has pushed it to $8100 with shaker.
Allow $200 to $300 delivery if charged for a repeat buyer.
Those are MAX RRetail prices.
If u have a many year established relationship & u are a repeat buyer who drops off the cash & doesn't need a tax invoice, like any industry, the pricing gets better !
Haven't watched the show for the past 18 months so will have to get the latest release DVDs and have a look.
But you have to admit, if u like zombies, The Walking Dead Pinball is the zombies collector treasure of treasures.
Just don't play it too late at night or u will attract the Walkers !
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The premium/le has this cross bow thing that seems to trap the ball on the apron and you have to shake the hell out of the game and go through ball searches. Its a real deal breaker for me. Also I find a lot of air balls especially flying off the ramps that also ruined game play for me. This occurred more times than not.
The crossbow is a hindrance when working (1 in 10 games) - I think the Pro is a better game as it does not have the crossbow.
The problems we have seen on most LE's is that the crossbow can't find home and then gently moves forward, blocking the ball from entering the assembly. When it does work, you press the button on the LDB and there's a delay before it fires (button works perfect in test and woodbury mode). Most of the time the ball flies out of the crossbow (late) and belts into the bash toy or a post rubber and ends up SDTM. Even if it worked 100%, I still think is an addition that offers nothing to the game. A pointless "extra".
I just didn't get it... not sure why this is meant to be a great game.
Single bumper 2 ramps and nothing much more to shoot for.. wheres the game?
What code did the game have ? Early code was a complete catastrophe, and later code is much much better. Two ramps shots are great. Prison multiball is a blast, and the well walker mutliball is dead easy. Cascade multiballs, and "kill" as many zombies as possible. The game is "violent" - just look at the blood splatter detail on the clear plastic protectors all over the playfield.
I gave this game plenty of time to grow on me, but I was impressed straight after the first code update (Magnet SDTM issues).
The show was good but it has gotten to the point of jumping the shark in season 6, plot lines are getting stupid.
The game is good but not brilliant, there are heaps of better games around.
Played the LE and the Pro and I prefer the LE.
Stopped watching after Episode 4. Completely lost direction. Meaningless violence rather than a good old fashioned "horror" show. No storyline, just a boring co existence with Zombies. I'm sure there will soon be a scene like "American Werewolf
Vikings, Sleepy Hollow and The Originals has gone way past TWD - and none of those are considered Horror TV series.
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Using exchange rate variations as an excuse for poor value for money is a cop-out.
The price is what it is now not when AC\DC was on the market.
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What code did the game have ? Early code was a complete catastrophe, and later code is much much better. Two ramps shots are great. Prison multiball is a blast, and the well walker mutliball is dead easy. Cascade multiballs, and "kill" as many zombies as possible. The game is "violent" - just look at the blood splatter detail on the clear plastic protectors all over the playfield.
You may have a point here. I got stuck into the game straight away with a few ramp to ramp shots etc. My son lost his first ball real quick and got ball save but then lost that almost immediately.
His score was in the millions.. I was on 11000!
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The show was good but it has gotten to the point of jumping the shark in season 6, plot lines are getting stupid.
The game is good but not brilliant, there are heaps of better games around.
Played the LE and the Pro and I prefer the LE.
24
CSI
Sopranos
Walking Dead
How often do the first three get brought in pinball discussion? All shows that had a loyal fan base at the time which the writers then proceeded to take for granted, thereby burning their own bridges.
TWD pin is only talked about because the show is still running.
Once it ends, the pinball itself as a typical middle of the road Stern title will be quickly forgotten about.
Using exchange rate variations as an excuse for poor value for money is a cop-out.
The price is what it is now not when AC\DC was on the market.
Yep. swinks Stern price watch thread has shown there is little correlation between the product price rises and in many cases is outpacing global currency fluctuations.
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The show was good but it has gotten to the point of jumping the shark in season 6, plot lines are getting stupid.
The game is good but not brilliant, there are heaps of better games around.
Played the LE and the Pro and I prefer the LE.
24
CSI
Sopranos
Walking Dead
How often do the first three get brought in pinball discussion? All shows that had a loyal fan base at the time which the writers then proceeded to take for granted, thereby burning their own bridges.
TWD pin is only talked about because the show is still running.
Once it ends, the pinball itself as a typical middle of the road Stern title will be quickly forgotten about.
Using exchange rate variations as an excuse for poor value for money is a cop-out.
The price is what it is now not when AC\DC was on the market.
Yep. swinks Stern price watch thread has shown there is little correlation between the product price rises and in many cases is outpacing global currency fluctuations.
Sopranos is a game that is requested often. Right up there with Family Guy and Simpsons, and a lot easier to source.
CSI - Absolutely an "A" Grade Stern. Well thought out ruleset - easy to pick up but notoriously difficult to beat. Awesome design, but the theme is not that popular nowadays. I really rate this game - never gave it a second look until I read up on the game. You don't watch the artwork, you watch the ball. I'd say this is my favorite Stern.
Not every Stern hits the mark, and we always over rate our favorite themes or games. I've never played 24 - I'd play one if I could find one. Playboy is an underrated machine that when reconditioned correctly, looks and plays really well.
I really like TWD - theme is awesome and the table itself is great.
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The show was good but it has gotten to the point of jumping the shark in season 6, plot lines are getting stupid.
The game is good but not brilliant, there are heaps of better games around.
Played the LE and the Pro and I prefer the LE.
24
CSI
Sopranos
Walking Dead
How often do the first three get brought in pinball discussion? All shows that had a loyal fan base at the time which the writers then proceeded to take for granted, thereby burning their own bridges.
TWD pin is only talked about because the show is still running.
Once it ends, the pinball itself as a typical middle of the road Stern title will be quickly forgotten about.
Using exchange rate variations as an excuse for poor value for money is a cop-out.
The price is what it is now not when AC\DC was on the market.
Yep. swinks Stern price watch thread has shown there is little correlation between the product price rises and in many cases is outpacing global currency fluctuations.
Sopranos is a game that is requested often. Right up there with Family Guy and Simpsons, and a lot easier to source.
CSI - Absolutely an "A" Grade Stern. Well thought out ruleset - easy to pick up but notoriously difficult to beat. Awesome design, but the theme is not that popular nowadays. I really rate this game - never gave it a second look until I read up on the game. You don't watch the artwork, you watch the ball. I'd say this is my favorite Stern.
Not every Stern hits the mark, and we always over rate our favorite themes or games. I've never played 24 - I'd play one if I could find one. Playboy is an underrated machine that when reconditioned correctly, looks and plays really well.
I really like TWD - theme is awesome and the table itself is great.
100% agree Nino:) Sopranos is a super fun game and great theme-TWD will be like Tron always sort after for years to come, the latest code made it a top 10 table. It's an incredibly popular game here and overseas as its a real players game :). Crap players may not enjoy it as the rules are deep and you need to think about each shot typical Lyman code just awesome. So many great Sterns out there and now GB coming :)
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If the Aus $ was at 1.13 and now it's .71 cents USA, that's a huge difference.
If the ACDC was $6300 and the current is $7850 or $8100 depending on what offer u get from AMD, based on the Aus dollar alone, the current price is WELL under what the Dollar says it really should be.
Simple math says the current price is about $1500 cheaper than the price the exchange rate would dictate.
It's not only pinballs which have increased. I bought two jet skis two years ago for $16,990 which were about two grand off each for a cash buy for the pair.
The current price is $20,990 because of the $.
Pinballs are still well priced using the dollar comparison. A lot changes in 4 or 5 years.
The Pro is priced always as the best value for money but people are too hung up on the small shiny bits on a LE and pay too much. Never a deal on a LE but always a deal on a great Pro.
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Great looking at some old threads. Wouldn't pay more than $7k for a walking dead. Pretty soon you won't be able to buy the topper for it at $7k lol.
I have owned the premium for a couple of years now and it's a great game with code 1.60. Floow, rule set and fun factor make it a great game. Air balls not much but yes the fast shot to arena ramp is crazy airballing at times.
Crossbow is reliable and responsive on mine and I don't get many cheap Sdtm from the pops and none from prison. Scores I average in the 100mil and top in the billions.
It's a keeper for me and prices guys, premiums are going for $14-15k now WTF. Crazy prices these days indeed.
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Greg's Walking Dead LE has never left my Showroom, and I occasionally play it. I think Greg paid $12.5K or thereabouts... I've been offered $16K on more than one occasion. No topper.
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Greg's Walking Dead LE has never left my Showroom, and I occasionally play it. I think Greg paid $12.5K or thereabouts... I've been offered $16K on more than one occasion. No topper.
Beautiful game the LE and as we all know they nailed this game with the code, always going to demand a very high price :)