- JC
- Mar 19
- 3 min read
As of March 19, 2025, several new pinball machines have been released or announced for this year by various manufacturers. Here's a rundown of the latest and most notable new pinball machines based on available information:
Stern Pinball
- **Dungeons & Dragons: The Tyrant’s Eye**
- Released: January 3, 2025
- Details: Stern Pinball kicked off 2025 with this title, available in Pro, Premium, and Limited Edition models. It’s based on the iconic tabletop role-playing game, featuring thematic elements like battling the tyrant’s eye. More details can be found on Stern’s official site. This is their first cornerstone release of the year.
- **Metallica Remastered**
- Released: October 16, 2024 (still relevant in early 2025)
- Details: A modernized version of the 2013 classic, this machine includes updated electronics and gameplay enhancements. Available in Pro, Premium, and Limited Edition models, it’s a significant release that carries over into 2025 discussions.
- **Uncanny X-Men**
- Anticipated: Mid-2025 (rumored Cornerstone #2)
- Details: Following the success of their Marvel-themed games, Stern is rumored to release an X-Men '97-themed machine tied to the Disney+ animated series. Speculation points to a Keith Elwin design, possibly featuring the new Spike 3 system.
Jersey Jack Pinball
- **Elton John**
- Released: Late 2024, still prominent in 2025
- Details: Available in Platinum and Collector’s Editions, this music-themed pinball celebrates Elton John’s career with immersive gameplay. It’s actively in production and available through JJP distributors.
- **Next Title (Speculated)**
- Anticipated: Late 2025
- Details: Rumors suggest a new game designed by Mark Seiden, possibly themed around *The Matrix* or *The Muppets*. An announcement might occur around the Chicago Pinball Expo in October 2025.
Chicago Gaming Company (CGC)
- **Pulp Fiction: Bad Mother Flipper Limited Edition**
- Released: Production ongoing into 2025
- Details: A collaboration with Raw Thrills and Play Mechanix, this Quentin Tarantino-inspired machine is still being shipped. CGC’s slow production pace means it remains a key 2025 title.
- **Medieval Madness Remake**
- Anticipated: Mid-2025
- Details: After fulfilling Pulp Fiction orders, CGC is expected to produce another run of this classic remake, with demand potentially exceeding 1,000 units.
Spooky Pinball
- **Evil Dead**
- Released: Currently in production (2025)
- Details: Alongside *Texas Chainsaw Massacre* and *Looney Tunes*, Spooky’s latest horror-themed machine is being built in limited runs. Known for boutique production, it appeals to collectors.
- **Next Title (Speculated)**
- Anticipated: Late 2025
- Details: Rumors hint at a *Beetlejuice* theme, leveraging artist Christopher Franchi’s past work, though no official confirmation exists yet.
American Pinball
- **Barry O’s Barbecue Challenge**
- Released: Available in 2025
- Details: A quirky, original theme, this game comes in Standard and Limited Editions. American Pinball’s viability remains uncertain due to staffing cuts, but this title is on the market.
- **Cuphead (Rumored)**
- Anticipated: 2025 (uncertain)
- Details: Speculated as their next release, but production capacity is a concern following recent challenges.
Barrels of Fun Pinball
- **Labyrinth**
- Released: Shipping in 2025
- Details: This Houston-based startup’s debut game, based on the 1986 film, is now reaching customers. They’ve secured three additional licenses for future titles, with *The Fifth Element* rumored as a possibility.
Dutch Pinball Exclusive (DPX)
- **Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland**
- Released: 2025
- Details: A collector-focused machine from Dutch Pinball’s sister company, DPX, this title is in production for 2025. It’s designed for rarity and appeal to enthusiasts.
- **Back to the Future (Rumored)**
- Anticipated: Late 2025 or beyond
- Details: Strongly linked to Dutch Pinball, this oft-requested theme might face delays due to *Alice* production, or potentially shift to Stern if licensing changes.
Turner Pinball
- **Merlin’s Arcade**
- Announced: March 18, 2025
- Details: Turner Pinball’s second machine, following their debut with *Ninja Eclipse*, this game was revealed recently and is generating buzz among enthusiasts for its arcade-inspired theme.
Other Notable Mentions
- **Pinball Brothers & Pedretti Gaming**: Producing *ABBA* and planning a *Funhouse* remake for 2025, targeting the European market.
- **Multimorphic**: Continues to innovate with the P3 platform, though no specific 2025 title has been confirmed.
Trends and Rumors
- Manufacturers are leaning into popular licenses (e.g., *Dungeons & Dragons*, *X-Men*, *Back to the Future*) and remakes of classics (*Medieval Madness*, *Funhouse*).
- Stern is expected to release three cornerstone titles in 2025, with *King Kong* (by Keith Elwin) and a John Borg-designed game also rumored.
- Rising production costs due to import tariffs and labor issues might lead to price increases later in the year.
These machines reflect the current state of the pinball industry in 2025, blending nostalgia, modern technology, and fresh themes. Availability varies by region and distributor, so checking with local vendors or manufacturer websites is recommended for the latest stock and pricing. Which one catches your eye?
