Chicago, IL – February 13th, 2026 – After a period of anticipation heightened by licensor approvals, Stern Pinball today officially launched its inaugural "cornerstone" title for 2026: a highly anticipated Pokémon pinball machine. This marks a significant moment for both the venerable pinball manufacturer and the iconic global entertainment franchise, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. The game’s unveiling follows a closely watched reveal to distributors and a subsequent media event at Stern’s Elk Grove Village factory.

The Pokémon brand, a cultural phenomenon originating from Japan, has achieved unparalleled global reach across video games, mobile applications, animation, films, comics, and merchandise. Its genesis dates back to February 27th, 1996, with the release of Pokémon Red Version and Pokémon Green Version for the Nintendo Game Boy in Japan. Over three decades, the franchise has experienced remarkable growth and evolution, mirroring the dynamic nature of the pinball industry itself. Initial widespread popularity peaked around the turn of the millennium before a resurgence in 2016, largely driven by the augmented reality mobile game Pokémon Go.

Stern Pinball’s Pokémon machine draws its thematic inspiration from the beloved animated television series and has been developed under a license from The Pokémon Company International (TPCi). This strategic partnership underscores the meticulous attention to detail and brand integrity that has characterized the approval process, which has been notably thorough.

A Deliberate Launch: From Distributor Previews to Media Showcase

The introduction of the Pokémon pinball machine was a phased event, commencing with an exclusive preview for distributors on Tuesday. This was followed by a comprehensive media event the next day at Stern Pinball’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facility. The event provided an in-depth look at the game’s design and development. Leading the presentation were game designers Jack Danger and George Gomez, who shared insights into the creative process and the seamless integration of Pokémon lore into the pinball experience. Tanio Klyce, the software lead, offered a detailed explanation of the game’s current ruleset and outlined plans for future software updates, promising ongoing engagement for players.

A key aspect of the game’s development was the collaborative approach to its visual assets. In a departure from Stern’s typical practice, the cabinet, backbox, translite, and playfield artwork were primarily created by TPCi’s in-house art team. Stern Pinball provided crucial modifications and adaptations to ensure suitability for the pinball medium, reflecting a shared commitment to authenticity. This rigorous approval process, involving close scrutiny of all asset usage, undoubtedly contributed to the game’s launch timeline. Originally slated for an early January release, the Pokémon pinball machine’s debut was strategically aligned with the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), allowing for maximum exposure. Designers George Gomez and Jack Danger confirmed that TPCi representatives viewed a physical game for the first time only earlier in the week, underscoring the close collaboration and approval cycles. The machines showcased at the media event bore a "Pending licensor approval" watermark on their LCD screens, a testament to the final stages of this collaborative effort.

Celebrating 30 Years of Pokémon: A Pinball Milestone

While 2026 marks the 30th anniversary of the Pokémon franchise, with numerous global celebrations planned, Stern Pinball emphasized that this pinball machine represents the 30th-anniversary edition. This positioning aims to cement the game as a definitive collector’s item and a central part of the franchise’s commemorative year.

For enthusiasts eager to experience the game firsthand, Pinball News captured footage of the Media Open Day introduction and a detailed explanation of the rules, available for viewing online.

Three Editions to Capture the Market: Pro, Premium, and Limited Edition

In line with Stern Pinball’s established strategy for its major releases, the Pokémon pinball machine is available in three distinct models: the Pro, the Premium, and the highly collectible Limited Edition (LE). The LE model is capped at 750 numbered units worldwide, appealing to dedicated collectors and enthusiasts.

The Pro Model: The Foundational Pokémon Experience

The Pro edition serves as the entry point for players looking to embark on their Pokémon pinball journey. It features the core gameplay mechanics and thematic elements designed to capture the essence of the Pokémon universe.

• Cabinet and Artwork: The Pro model boasts vibrant cabinet art that immerses players in the world of Pokémon. The translite and backbox displays feature iconic characters and scenes from the animated series, providing a nostalgic visual experience.
• Playfield Layout: The Pro playfield is designed for accessibility while offering engaging gameplay. Key shots and targets are strategically placed to guide players through the game’s objectives, including capturing Pokémon and battling rivals. Notable features include a simplified Pokeball target, serving as a primary collectible mechanic.

The Premium Model: Enhanced Features for Dedicated Trainers

Stepping up from the Pro, the Premium model introduces a richer gameplay experience with enhanced mechanical features and visual elements, further deepening the player’s immersion.

• Playfield Enhancements: The Premium version incorporates additional interactive elements, building upon the Pro model’s foundation. This includes a more dynamic Pokeball target that functions as a lift ramp with a ball lock mechanism, adding a new layer of strategy for capturing Pokémon.
• Expression Lighting: While not as extensive as the LE, the Premium model may feature enhanced lighting effects that respond to gameplay, adding visual flair and reinforcing the game’s theme.

The Limited Edition (LE): The Ultimate Pokémon Pinball Masterpiece

The Limited Edition model represents the pinnacle of the Pokémon pinball experience, offering the most comprehensive feature set and exclusive aesthetic enhancements.

• Advanced Playfield Features: The LE playfield includes all the enhancements of the Premium model, plus additional unique interactive toys and mechanisms. This can include special ramps, dynamic targets, and interactive elements that directly tie into Pokémon battles and capture mechanics, such as a Squirtle spinaround above the left inlane.
• Expression Lighting System: A standout feature of the LE is the integrated Expression Lighting System and Speaker Expression Lighting System. These advanced lighting technologies synchronize with gameplay events, creating a dynamic and immersive visual spectacle that enhances the thematic narrative.
• Exclusive Collectible Elements: The LE model is distinguished by a full-color mirrored backglass, unique high-definition cabinet decals, custom LE pinball armor, an autographed custom designer bottom arch, an upgraded audio system, anti-reflection playfield glass, a shaker motor for tactile feedback, a sequentially numbered plaque, and a signed Certificate of Authenticity. These elements combine to make the LE model a highly sought-after collector’s item.

Gameplay Mechanics: Catching, Battling, and Becoming a Master

The ruleset of the Pokémon pinball machine is designed to mirror the core experience of the Pokémon franchise, encouraging players to explore, collect, and battle.

• Biomes and Discovery: The game features four distinct "biomes"—Desert, Forest, Lake, and Mountain—each offering unique challenges and Pokémon to discover and capture. Players progress through these biomes by engaging in battles, training their Pokémon, and strategically choosing their team.
• Catching Mechanics: The iconic Pokeball serves as a central mechanic for capturing Pokémon. Players will utilize illuminated shots and scoop targets to collect these creatures. A Pokedex captive ball acts as a central collection point for earned Pokeballs.
• Combos and Evolutions: Executing lit combo shots awards players with Pokeballs. Additionally, eight secret combos are integrated into the gameplay, each initiating an Eevee evolution, allowing players to add these versatile Pokémon to their team.
• Character Modes: Major character shots, corresponding to Squirtle, Charmander, Pikachu, and Bulbasaur, will initiate unique character modes after being hit three times, offering varied gameplay objectives and challenges.
• Team Rocket Encounters: The notorious Team Rocket organization plays a villainous role in the game. Their hideout, marked by an "R" on the playfield, leads to the Meowth balloon, which, when targeted sufficiently, initiates a multiball mode. Currently, the game features one Team Rocket multiball, with plans for additional multiball modes and a mini-wizard mode to be introduced in future updates.
• Pokémon Arena: Successfully winning battles across all four biomes qualifies players for the ultimate challenge: the Pokémon Arena mode, a true test of a trainer’s skill.

Official Statement from Stern Pinball

Seth Davis, President & CEO of Stern Pinball, expressed his enthusiasm for the launch: "Today we’re proud to finally deliver the long-awaited Pokémon by Stern Pinball machine. This game is a true celebration of nostalgia, craftsmanship, and the enduring adventure of Pokémon—brought to life in a whole new way through immersive pinball gameplay, thrilling battles and the timeless excitement of catching Pokémon."

Broader Implications and Market Impact

The introduction of a Pokémon pinball machine represents a significant strategic move for Stern Pinball. By leveraging one of the world’s most recognizable and enduring entertainment brands, Stern aims to attract a broader audience to the hobby, including long-time Pokémon fans who may be new to pinball. The franchise’s 30th anniversary provides a timely and potent marketing opportunity, capitalizing on decades of nostalgia and a continuously evolving fan base.

The meticulous licensing process and the collaboration with TPCi’s in-house art team highlight a trend toward deeper brand integration in the pinball industry. This approach not only ensures authenticity but also potentially broadens the appeal of pinball machines to existing fan communities of licensed properties.

Furthermore, the inclusion of Stern’s award-winning Insider Connected platform in the Pokémon machine allows players to track their captured Pokémon, earn game-specific achievements, and engage with a global community. This feature enhances replayability and fosters a sense of ongoing connection with the game and the broader pinball ecosystem, aligning with Stern’s strategy to modernize and expand the reach of the pinball experience.

The Pokémon pinball machine is available through authorized Stern Pinball distributors and dealers worldwide. Pricing starts at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $6,999 for the Pro Edition, $9,699 for the Premium Edition, and $12,999 for the Limited Edition. These prices are subject to regional taxes and duties. Stern Pinball continues to offer its industry-leading one-year warranty on all its machines, underscoring a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.