Great news Adam. Ball times generally will increase once you get used to the game. I never use the 'dead bounce' method but for this game it is a must. It is the main way of trying to gain control of the ball during game play. Dead bounce from the left orbit post, both scoops and I'm still testing other areas. Remember you can adjust the outlane posts position, although hasn't really helped and increase the number of balls per game. I've increased to 5 balls atm so I can learn what shots are necessary for the various modes. Stay Puft mode is hard to get to for me and I haven't completed it yet.