The world of pinball, following a robust period of new game releases in the preceding month, experienced a more contemplative pace in April 2026. This measured tempo is the focus of the latest installment of the Pinball Industry News PINcast, hosted by industry veterans Martin and Jonathan. The April edition, released to an eager audience of enthusiasts and professionals, delves into a curated selection of significant events, product updates, and promotional activities that have shaped the pinball landscape. While the preceding month may have been characterized by a flurry of launches, April provided a crucial opportunity for deeper engagement with existing titles, strategic partnerships, and the ongoing evolution of pinball technology and community engagement.

A Resurgence in Sound Design: Chris Granner Returns to Pinball Audio

A significant development highlighted in the PINcast is the return of Chris Granner, a celebrated figure in pinball audio design, to the creation of sound packages for new games. After a thirteen-year hiatus from developing audio for brand-new machines, Granner has re-entered the arena, collaborating with Adam Grubman on Turner Pinball’s forthcoming title, Yukon Yeti. Granner’s previous work has been instrumental in defining the sonic identity of numerous iconic pinball machines, contributing significantly to their immersive qualities and player appeal. His return signals a potential for a new benchmark in auditory experiences within the pinball industry, a sector where sound design plays a critical role in enhancing gameplay and player engagement. The industry will be keenly observing how Granner’s distinctive approach to audio composition will shape the player experience on Yukon Yeti, potentially setting new trends for sound integration in future pinball designs.

Cardona Pinball Revitalizes a Classic with the Fish Tales 2.0 Upgrade

In a move that underscores the enduring appeal of beloved pinball machines, Cardona Pinball has unveiled a comprehensive 2.0 upgrade kit for the classic Fish Tales machine. This ambitious undertaking goes beyond simple cosmetic enhancements, introducing a suite of substantial improvements designed to breathe new life into the 1992 Bally classic. The Ultimate Fishing Challenge upgrade kit encompasses entirely new game rules, enhancing strategic depth and replayability. Furthermore, it integrates modern display technology with new backbox and playfield LCD panels, offering richer visual feedback and dynamic gameplay elements. Complementing these technical advancements are updated soundscapes and an entirely new translite art package, promising a significantly modernized and engaging player experience. The release of such an extensive upgrade kit speaks to the growing trend of preserving and enhancing vintage pinball machines, catering to a dedicated collector base and ensuring these classic games remain relevant and enjoyable for a new generation of players. The success of this initiative could pave the way for similar comprehensive revitalization projects for other revered titles in the pinball archive.

Stern Pinball Embraces Culture and Community with Q-West2 Sponsorship

Stern Pinball has demonstrated its commitment to engaging with diverse cultural events through a notable sponsorship of the Q-West2 comedy festival in Key West, Florida. Positioned as a "lifestyle sponsor," the company has strategically integrated its presence within this vibrant cultural gathering. The sponsorship saw a dedicated area populated with Stern Pinball’s latest game offerings, providing festival-goers with an interactive entertainment option. A key element of this activation was the hosting of high-score tournaments utilizing Stern’s Insider Connected platform. This initiative not only provided a competitive outlet for attendees but also served to further promote and integrate the Insider Connected ecosystem within a broader entertainment context. Participants in these tournaments were recognized with a unique achievement badge within the Insider Connected system, fostering a sense of accomplishment and community engagement. This sponsorship represents a forward-thinking approach by Stern Pinball, seeking to connect its brand with a wider audience beyond traditional pinball events and demonstrating the versatility of their games as social and entertainment hubs. The move highlights the company’s strategy of embedding pinball within broader lifestyle and entertainment trends.

Hexa Pinball’s The Three Musketeers Embarks on a Transatlantic Tour

The new The Three Musketeers pinball machine from Hexa Pinball, while not featured at the Texas Pinball Festival as initially anticipated, has been actively showcased at various European and US-based industry events. This ongoing tour has provided significant exposure for the title, allowing a broad spectrum of players and operators to experience its unique gameplay and thematic elements. Hexa Pinball’s proactive approach to exhibiting their machine at multiple shows underscores a strategic effort to build momentum and gather crucial player feedback. The PINcast provides an avenue for listeners to discover the current and future locations where The Three Musketeers can be played, facilitating continued engagement and interest. This sustained promotional effort is vital for newer manufacturers seeking to establish their brand and game designs within a competitive market, ensuring wider visibility and market penetration.

Jersey Jack Pinball Forges a Magical Alliance with Broadway’s Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

In a captivating collaboration, Jersey Jack Pinball has partnered with the acclaimed Broadway production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. This partnership sees a specially designed Harry Potter-themed pinball machine installed backstage, providing the cast with a unique form of entertainment. The promotional impact of this alliance was amplified by a new video featuring actor Tom Felton, reprising his iconic role as Draco Malfoy, interacting with the backstage pinball machine. This cross-promotional effort leverages the immense global popularity of the Harry Potter franchise to introduce pinball to a wider, culturally diverse audience. The integration of pinball within the theatrical environment offers a novel way to connect with entertainment consumers and potentially cultivate new enthusiasts for the hobby. The visible presence of a high-quality pinball machine within such a prominent entertainment venue underscores the increasing recognition of pinball as a premium entertainment experience.

Jersey Jack Pinball Reveals Future Game Insights at Pintastic New England

Further details regarding Jersey Jack Pinball’s upcoming game development pipeline were shared during a panel seminar at the Pintastic New England show. Industry luminaries Steve Ritchie and Mark Seiden, key figures within Jersey Jack Pinball, provided insights into their future projects. While the specific details of their revelations remain a point of intrigue for pinball aficionados, their participation in such forums indicates a commitment to transparency and community engagement. These discussions offer valuable glimpses into the company’s creative direction and technological advancements, fostering anticipation within the enthusiast base. Such events are crucial for maintaining dialogue between manufacturers and their player community, influencing design choices and building brand loyalty. The industry watches with keen interest as Jersey Jack Pinball continues to innovate and expand its impressive portfolio.

Wonderland Amusement and Custom Merchandise Round Out the News

The April PINcast also touches upon developments from Wonderland Amusement, including news regarding their second title and a software update for their inaugural game. This ongoing output from the manufacturer signifies their commitment to expanding their presence in the pinball market. Additionally, the opportunity for enthusiasts to acquire custom Monster League Hockey player jerseys was highlighted, catering to the merchandising and fan-engagement aspects of the hobby. These details, while perhaps smaller in scope, contribute to the comprehensive overview of the pinball industry’s diverse activities and community-driven initiatives.

The April 2026 edition of the Pinball Magazine and Pinball News PINcast serves as an essential resource for staying abreast of the dynamic and ever-evolving world of pinball. Hosted by Martin and Jonathan, the podcast consistently delivers a measured and insightful exploration of industry happenings. As the year progresses, with major events like the Texas Pinball Festival and others on the horizon, the PINcast promises to continue its role as a leading source of news, interviews, and analysis. For those seeking to remain fully informed about the pinball industry, the monthly PINcast offers an indispensable platform, solidifying its reputation as the podcast that the pinball industry itself listens to.

Listeners can access this month’s PINcast directly or explore the extensive archive of previous editions via the provided links. Furthermore, the Pinball Industry News PINcast is available on Spotify, offering streaming and download options for all 98 previous episodes, along with subscription services for automatic notifications of future releases. This multi-platform accessibility ensures that the valuable insights and updates shared on the PINcast are readily available to a global audience of pinball enthusiasts and professionals alike. The continued commitment to producing such content underscores the dedication of Pinball Magazine and Pinball News to fostering a well-informed and connected pinball community.