Following a flurry of high-profile game launches in March, April 2026 presented a comparatively more tranquil period for the pinball industry. Despite the lull in major new releases, the latest edition of the Pinball Industry News PINcast, hosted by Martin and Jonathan, offers a comprehensive overview of the month’s developments, from significant audio updates and creative collaborations to community engagement and upcoming game reveals. The podcast, a staple for industry professionals and enthusiasts alike, delves into the nuanced happenings that continue to shape the pinball landscape.

Sonic Renaissance: Chris Granner Returns to Pinball Audio

A significant highlight of the April PINcast is the much-anticipated return of Chris Granner, a revered figure in pinball audio design, to the creation of sound packages for new machines. After a thirteen-year hiatus since his last original audio work for a pinball title, Granner has re-entered the studio to collaborate with Adam Grubman on the sound design for Turner Pinball’s upcoming game, Yukon Yeti. Granner’s previous contributions, such as the iconic soundscapes for Medieval Madness and The Lord of the Rings, are widely celebrated and have set a high bar for audio immersion in the hobby. His return signifies a potentially groundbreaking infusion of sonic artistry into a new generation of pinball machines. The impact of Granner’s involvement could extend beyond Yukon Yeti, potentially inspiring other manufacturers to invest more heavily in bespoke audio experiences, thereby elevating the sensory engagement for players. Industry analysts suggest that this collaboration could reignite a trend of prioritizing original, high-quality audio as a key selling point for new pinball titles.

Cardona Pinball Revitalizes a Classic with "Fish Tales" 2.0 Upgrade

Cardona Pinball has demonstrated a commitment to preserving and enhancing the legacy of beloved pinball machines with the release of its 2.0 upgrade kit for the classic Fish Tales. This comprehensive upgrade, christened Ultimate Fishing Challenge, introduces a wealth of new features designed to breathe new life into the 1992 Williams classic. The enhancements include entirely new game rules, modernized backbox and playfield LCD panels, updated sound effects, novel display animations, and freshly designed translite artwork. This initiative by Cardona Pinball addresses a growing segment of the pinball market that appreciates modern technology applied to vintage machines. By offering such an extensive upgrade, the company not only provides an enhanced gameplay experience for existing Fish Tales owners but also potentially increases the machine’s appeal to a new generation of collectors. The success of this upgrade could set a precedent for other third-party developers to create similar comprehensive revitalization kits for other popular older titles, fostering a sustainable ecosystem for classic pinball.

Stern Pinball Sponsors Comedy and Cultivates Community in Key West

Stern Pinball has embraced an unconventional sponsorship opportunity, aligning itself with the Q-West2 comedy festival in Key West, Florida, as a "lifestyle sponsor." This initiative saw the company deploying a selection of its latest pinball machines to a local bar, creating an interactive entertainment hub for festival attendees. High score tournaments were organized, leveraging Stern’s Insider Connected platform, which not only fostered friendly competition but also allowed players to earn a unique achievement badge. This strategic marketing move by Stern Pinball underscores a broader trend within the entertainment industry of cross-promotional activities that engage diverse audiences. By associating with a comedy festival, Stern is tapping into a demographic that may not be traditional pinball enthusiasts but is open to novel entertainment experiences. The integration of Insider Connected into the event highlights the platform’s growing utility in community building and competitive engagement beyond the confines of dedicated pinball events. The success of this sponsorship could encourage other pinball manufacturers to explore similar unconventional partnerships to broaden their reach.

Hexa Pinball’s "The Three Musketeers" Embarks on a European and US Tour

Hexa Pinball’s ambitious new title, The Three Musketeers, despite not making an appearance at the Texas Pinball Festival, has been actively showcased at various European and United States shows. This touring strategy allows the company to gather direct feedback from a wide range of players and distributors while building anticipation for the game’s wider release. The detailed itinerary of its tour, available through the PINcast, provides enthusiasts with opportunities to experience the game firsthand. This approach to product showcasing is particularly effective for newer manufacturers seeking to establish their presence in a competitive market. By prioritizing direct player interaction and on-the-ground demonstrations, Hexa Pinball is demonstrating a customer-centric approach to game launches. The company’s commitment to transparency regarding its touring schedule suggests a desire to foster open communication with its potential customer base.

Jersey Jack Pinball and "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child" Forge Magical Alliance

In a captivating collaboration, Jersey Jack Pinball has partnered with the Broadway production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. Movie actor Tom Felton, reprising his iconic role as Draco Malfoy, was featured in a promotional video discovering a specially installed Harry Potter-themed pinball machine backstage for the cast to enjoy. This partnership leverages the immense global popularity of the Harry Potter franchise to introduce pinball to a new and vast audience. The integration of a pinball machine into the theatrical experience offers a unique form of entertainment for the cast and crew, potentially generating organic buzz and positive associations with the Jersey Jack brand. This cross-promotional effort highlights the potential for the pinball industry to tap into established entertainment properties to expand its reach and appeal. The visual of a beloved actor interacting with a custom pinball machine is a powerful marketing tool, capable of capturing attention beyond traditional pinball circles.

Pintastic New England: Jersey Jack Pinball Teases Future Projects

The Pintastic New England show served as a platform for Jersey Jack Pinball to engage with the community and offer insights into their future product pipeline. In a panel seminar, industry veterans Steve Ritchie and Mark Seiden shared details about upcoming games. While specific details of these future projects were not fully disclosed in the PINcast summary, the fact that such a panel was held indicates Jersey Jack’s commitment to transparency and community engagement. These seminars often serve as crucial touchpoints for gathering player feedback and gauging market interest, informing future design and development decisions. The involvement of experienced designers like Ritchie and Seiden lends significant weight to any announcements made, reinforcing Jersey Jack’s position as a forward-thinking manufacturer. Such events are vital for maintaining brand loyalty and generating excitement within the dedicated pinball enthusiast base.

Wonderland Amusement’s Latest and "Monster League Hockey" Merchandise

Further adding to the month’s news, Wonderland Amusement provided updates on their second pinball title, alongside a software update for their debut machine. This indicates a steady development pace for the emerging manufacturer. Additionally, the opportunity for fans to acquire custom Monster League Hockey player jerseys was highlighted. This merchandise offering is a testament to the growing trend of manufacturers engaging with their fan bases through branded apparel and collectibles. Such items not only serve as a revenue stream but also foster a sense of community and brand ownership among players. The continued support for their initial game through software updates demonstrates Wonderland Amusement’s dedication to its product lifecycle and customer satisfaction.

The PINcast: The Industry’s Essential Update

The April 2026 edition of the Pinball Magazine and Pinball News PINcast, hosted by Martin and Jonathan, serves as an invaluable resource for staying abreast of the dynamic pinball industry. The podcast’s detailed coverage of these varied developments, from audio innovations and classic game revitalizations to strategic sponsorships and future game reveals, provides a comprehensive snapshot of the month’s activities. As the industry continues to evolve, with manufacturers innovating and collaborations bridging diverse entertainment sectors, the PINcast solidifies its role as the essential audio digest for anyone invested in the world of pinball. Its consistent delivery of in-depth reporting and industry insights positions it as "the podcast the pinball industry listens to," offering a crucial window into the ongoing narratives and strategic movements that define this niche yet passionate sector. The availability of past episodes on platforms like Spotify further enhances its accessibility, ensuring that the history and ongoing developments of the pinball industry are readily available to a global audience. The forthcoming months, with anticipated news from major events like TPF, promise further compelling content for the PINcast’s dedicated listenership.