I don't like mosfets - they are static sensitive and way too 'fussy' for applications like pinball drivers IMO.
How many times do you have trouble with a TIP36C? Almost never!!!!
Mosfets were, and still are used because they are cheap and will switch very high currents without needing a heat-sink.
Just my $0.02
you have a point there, they are VERY fussy, I just like the idea of switching high currents with no heat-sink and bugger all drive.
but for reliability you can't go beat a Darlington transistor