Stern Pinball, a leading name in the pinball industry, has officially unveiled its second cornerstone game of the year: Transformers: More Than Meets The Eye! This highly anticipated release marks a significant return for the iconic franchise to the pinball arena, building upon Stern’s previous Transformers offering from 2011. The announcement was made on May 20th, coinciding with a dedicated Media Day event hosted by Stern Pinball.

A Legacy Renewed: The Transformers Pinball Saga

The original Stern Pinball Transformers game, a George Gomez design released in 2011, was a notable entry in the company’s catalog. It pioneered the integration of QR codes directly on the machine, linking players to a dedicated microsite for game rules, music, and behind-the-scenes development insights. Although that microsite has since been discontinued, the game itself was available in Pro and Limited Edition (LE) variants, with the LE model offering distinct Autobot-themed crimson, Decepticon-themed violet, and a split Decepticon/Autobot design.

Fifteen years after the initial cinematic adaptation, this new "More Than Meets The Eye!" model arrives to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the first Transformers movie. This contemporary design, spearheaded by Elliot Eismin with Elizabeth Gieske leading software development, adheres to Stern’s established "cornerstone" model, offering Pro, Premium, and Limited Edition versions. Notably, this iteration features a single Limited Edition variant, which cleverly echoes the split crimson and violet color scheme of its 2011 predecessor, albeit with the colors reversed.

Examining the Models: Pro, Premium, and Limited Edition

Stern Pinball has provided detailed visual representations of each model, allowing enthusiasts to appreciate the distinct aesthetics of the Pro, Premium, and Limited Edition versions.

The Pro Model

The Pro model serves as the entry point into the Transformers pinball experience. Its exterior features robust artwork that clearly delineates the Autobot and Decepticon factions. Detailed images showcase the left and right sides of the cabinet, the front view, and the distinctive backbox side artwork. The translite artwork and various cabinet details, including the plaque and bottom arch, are also prominently displayed, offering a comprehensive look at the foundational design.

The Premium Model

Stepping up in features and aesthetic enhancements, the Premium model builds upon the Pro version. Similar to the Pro, the Premium model’s exterior is adorned with vibrant artwork. Visuals capture the left and right sides, the front, and the backbox art, highlighting the cohesive design language across the Transformers universe. Key details like the translite artwork, plaque, and bottom arch are also presented, showcasing the elevated presentation of this tier.

The Limited Edition Model

The Limited Edition (LE) model represents the pinnacle of the Transformers: More Than Meets The Eye! pinball machine, boasting exclusive features and premium finishes. Its exterior design mirrors the split color scheme of previous LE models, with distinct Autobot and Decepticon visual cues. The LE features a mirrored backglass, adding a touch of luxury and depth. Detailed images of the cabinet artwork, numbered plaque, and bottom arch further emphasize its collectible status.

A noteworthy observation across all three models is the inclusion of warning text above the display panel’s keyhole, cautioning about high voltages and advising that service should only be performed by qualified personnel. This addition, likely catering to the growing number of home buyers, underscores Stern’s commitment to safety and professional maintenance.

Playfield Innovations and Differences

The core playfield design and artwork remain consistent across all three models, with variations primarily concerning the integrated mechanisms and decals.

Limited Edition Playfield Features

The Limited Edition model is a six-ball game featuring three flippers, including a specialized flipper positioned mid-way up the right side. The playfield is visually divided, with the Autobot faction dominating the left side and the Decepticons the right, a design choice that complements the cabinet’s color scheme.

A standout feature of the LE model is the integrated Expression dual-sided cabinet and speaker lighting system. This system provides dynamic lighting effects that sync with the game’s action, enhancing the immersive experience. Furthermore, the LE model includes laser-cut side rails for exterior cabinet lighting, creating a visually stunning spectacle.

The LE playfield is populated with four custom-sculpted character toys: Optimus Prime and Megatron at the top, Soundwave on the right, and Grimlock on the left. Megatron, in particular, is a highly interactive element; his upper body rotates, and his arm, equipped with a fusion cannon, can be articulated to fire locked balls. This mechanism offers a unique skill-shot opportunity, allowing players to aim the ball at specific targets. In front of Megatron lies a scoop, accessible via a jump ramp, guarded by a three-bank drop target. Optimus Prime is a static bash toy, with hits registered on his legs. Soundwave serves as a ball lock mechanism, with balls being diverted into his cassette deck and released after sufficient interaction with a target at his base.

Premium Model Playfield Enhancements

The Premium model shares the same playfield layout, artwork, and toys as the Limited Edition, with the key distinction being the absence of the integrated Expression lighting systems and interior cabinet art blades. While these premium visual enhancements are not factory-installed, they can be procured as add-ons.

Pro Model Playfield Modifications

The Pro model, as the most accessible version, features the most significant differences in its playfield. While the core layout and artwork are retained, the Grimlock and Soundwave toys are replaced with flat, printed plastic cutouts. Despite this alteration, the corresponding targets remain, ensuring these characters are still integrated into the game’s rules and objectives.

A crucial difference lies in the Megatron toy. On the Pro model, Megatron is static; he does not rotate, and his fusion cannon, which fires balls in the LE and Premium models, is absent. Consequently, the associated ball feed mechanism and the wireform ramp in the center-left of the playfield are also removed. The Insider Connected scanner is also repositioned on the Pro model. Notably, the drop target bank and scoop remain, as does the Optimus Prime bash toy, ensuring fundamental gameplay elements are preserved.

Official Announcement and Media Day

Stern Pinball formally announced the release of Transformers: More Than Meets The Eye! on Wednesday, May 20th, coinciding with a Media Day event. During the event, Stern’s VP of Marketing, Matthew Guyer, emphasized the franchise’s broad appeal, particularly to a demographic of "40-something adults" who may not have been previous pinball enthusiasts but are drawn to themed merchandise. This strategic approach highlights Stern’s effort to broaden the pinball market.

The game’s design is reportedly based on over 70 episodes of the original Transformers television series, with an additional special mode dedicated to the 1986 feature film, including the iconic song "The Touch" by Stan Bush. Legendary voice actors Peter Cullen (Optimus Prime) and Frank Welker (Megatron and Soundwave) have reprised their roles, contributing authentic call-outs.

Stern Pinball released an official trailer for the game, which was showcased at Media Day. This was followed by gameplay demonstrations recorded by M. G. Brown, offering prospective players a glimpse into the action.

Official Statement from Stern Pinball

The official press release from Stern Pinball highlighted the game’s features and significance:

"The TRANSFORMERS franchise has captivated generations of people worldwide across toys, comics, television, film and merchandise. Now, fans can experience the legendary battle between Autobots and Decepticons like never before through immersive, action-packed pinball. TRANSFORMERS: More Than Meets the Eye by Stern Pinball is available now in Pro, Premium, and Limited Edition (LE) models.

In Stern Pinball’s TRANSFORMERS: More Than Meets the Eye, players join Optimus Prime and the Autobots in their mission to stop Megatron and the Decepticons from stealing Earth’s energy, conquering Cybertron, and dominating the universe. TRANSFORMERS: More Than Meets the Eye pushes mechanical innovation to new heights with a fully animatronic Megatron robot toy with an articulated fusion cannon that rotates and fires pinballs back at players. Soundwave’s cassette deck locks pinballs before launching them into high-intensity action while a custom sculpted Optimus Prime robot bash toy stands ready for battle, adding depth and spectacle to this world under glass that’s …MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE.

Players will experience the ultimate battle between Autobots and Deceptions, and can store Energon Cubes to power up, team up with the Dinobots, collect Transformers Tech Spec cards, and prepare for a climactic battle against Megatron. Players embark on missions inspired by major story arcs from the original 1984 TRANSFORMERS animated television series, and the machine integrates authentic video clips and story-driven missions that bring the brand’s legacy to life.

To celebrate the 40th anniversary of THE TRANSFORMERS: THE MOVIE, the game includes a special mode featuring the iconic song ‘The Touch’ by Stan Bush, custom call-outs from legendary voice actors including Peter Cullen (Optimus Prime) and Frank Welker (Megatron and Soundwave), and original music from Knights of Unicron.

Loaded with Stern Pinball’s cutting-edge technology, TRANSFORMERS: More Than Meets the Eye seamlessly blends physical and digital gameplay. Utilizing Stern Pinball’s award-winning Insider Connected platform, the machine introduces a brand-new Cyber Coin wallet system, where players can earn Cyber Coins to unlock exclusive challenge modes. The machine also features a special challenge mode, ‘Prime Training,’ where Autobots guide players through the art of pinball mastery, and for the first time, includes a head-to-head experience that allows two players to compete simultaneously in real time.

Limited to 750 games globally, the highly collectible Limited Edition model includes the updated Expression Lighting System™ and Speaker Expression Lighting System with TRANSFORMERS-themed game effects, a full-color mirrored backglass, full-color high-definition cabinet decals, exclusive custom pinball armor, a custom designer-autographed bottom arch, upgraded audio system, anti-reflection pinball playfield glass, shaker motor, a sequentially numbered plaque, a signed Certificate of Authenticity, and a digital Insider Connected LE owner’s badge on registration.

‘The TRANSFORMERS franchise has inspired generations with its timeless battle between good and evil,’ said Seth Davis, President & CEO of Stern Pinball. ‘With TRANSFORMERS: More Than Meets the Eye pinball, we’ve created a machine that dynamically changes before your eyes, delivers groundbreaking gameplay, legendary music, and the ultimate showdown fans have been waiting for.’"

The MSRP for the Pro model is listed at $6,999, with the Premium and Limited Edition models priced accordingly higher. Stern Pinball distributors and dealers worldwide are now taking orders.

Promotional Materials and Future Coverage

To further support the launch, Stern Pinball has released flyers for each model, providing a concise overview of their features and appeal. These flyers, along with comprehensive gameplay videos and detailed model breakdowns, are available for public review. Pinball News will continue to provide updates on the Transformers: More Than Meets The Eye! pinball machine, including in-depth gameplay analysis and community reactions. The release signifies Stern Pinball’s ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality, licensed pinball experiences that resonate with both long-time enthusiasts and new audiences.