Chicago, IL – February 13th, 2026 – Following a period of anticipation and licensing approvals, Stern Pinball today officially launched its highly anticipated "cornerstone" title for 2026: a pinball machine dedicated to the globally beloved Pokémon franchise. This marks a significant moment for both the pinball industry and the enduring Pokémon brand, which is simultaneously celebrating its 30th anniversary. The reveal event, held at Stern Pinball’s factory in Elk Grove Village, Illinois, provided an in-depth look at the game’s design, features, and the meticulous process behind its creation.

The Pokémon universe, an abbreviation of "Pocket Monsters," first captured the imaginations of players worldwide on 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 evolved into a cultural phenomenon, encompassing a vast array of media, including console and mobile games, anime series, feature films, comic books, trading cards, and an extensive merchandise empire. This landmark anniversary year is being commemorated with numerous global events, and the introduction of the Stern Pinball machine adds a unique, interactive dimension to the celebrations.

The journey to bring Pokémon to the pinball world has been a testament to collaboration and meticulous attention to detail. The development process was notably influenced by the stringent licensing requirements of The Pokémon Company International (TPCi), a joint venture formed from the merger of Pokémon USA and Pokémon UK. This oversight ensured that every aspect of the game, from cabinet artwork to playfield elements, authentically represented the Pokémon brand. In a first for Stern Pinball, the artwork for the cabinet, backbox, translite, and playfield was entirely developed by TPCi’s in-house art team, with Stern making specific, approved modifications for pinball-specific functionalities. This close collaboration, while ensuring brand integrity, also contributed to a slight delay from Stern’s typical early January release window, allowing for strategic placement at the Consumer Electronics Show.

The official unveiling to distributors occurred on Tuesday, followed by a dedicated media event the next day at Stern’s manufacturing facility. The event featured insights from key members of the development team. Game designers Jack Danger and George Gomez shared their vision for the game, detailing the integration of the Pokémon theme and the challenges and triumphs of bringing such an iconic brand to life in a pinball format. Tanio Klyce, the software lead, provided an overview of the game’s current ruleset and outlined planned future updates, signaling a commitment to ongoing player engagement and evolution of the gameplay experience.

A Deep Dive into the Pokémon Pinball Machine Models

Stern Pinball has released the Pokémon pinball machine in its signature Pro, Premium, and Limited Edition (LE) configurations, each offering a distinct player experience and feature set.

The Pro Model

The Pro model serves as the entry point into the Pokémon pinball adventure. While retaining the core theme and gameplay mechanics, it presents a streamlined experience compared to its more elaborate counterparts. Visually, the Pro model features vibrant artwork capturing the essence of the Pokémon world. The playfield, while robust, omits certain advanced mechanical elements found in higher-tier models. Notably, the Pro version does not include the Squirtle spinaround above the left inlane and features a simpler stand-up target for the Poké Ball instead of the lift ramp with a ball lock mechanism present in the Premium and LE versions. This design choice allows for broader accessibility while still delivering an engaging pinball challenge.

The Premium Model

Stepping up, the Premium model builds upon the Pro’s foundation, introducing enhanced playfield features and a richer visual presentation. The Premium model shares the same core playfield feature set as the Limited Edition, ensuring a deep and complex gameplay experience. However, it distinguishes itself by omitting the advanced Expression Lighting system that is a hallmark of the LE version. This model offers a compelling balance between advanced gameplay elements and a more accessible price point, making it an attractive option for dedicated pinball enthusiasts. The playfield and cabinet artwork are further enhanced, immersing players more deeply into the Pokémon universe.

The Limited Edition (LE) Model

The Limited Edition (LE) model represents the pinnacle of the Pokémon pinball experience, designed for collectors and enthusiasts seeking the most feature-rich and exclusive machine. Production of the LE model is capped at 750 numbered units globally, underscoring its collectibility. This model boasts the most comprehensive playfield features, including the highly sophisticated Expression Lighting System and Speaker Expression Lighting System, which synchronize with in-game events to create a dynamic and immersive visual spectacle. The LE also includes a full-color mirrored backglass, exclusive high-definition cabinet decals, custom LE Pokémon pinball armor, a custom designer-autographed bottom arch, an upgraded audio system, anti-reflection playfield glass, a shaker motor, and a sequentially numbered plaque, alongside a signed Certificate of Authenticity and a digital Insider Connected LE owner’s badge. The LE playfield itself is a marvel, featuring intricate details and mechanical elements designed to enhance the gameplay and thematic integration.

Gameplay Mechanics and Thematic Integration

The gameplay of Stern Pinball’s Pokémon is designed to immerse players in the core experience of the franchise: exploration, collection, and battle. The game is structured around four distinct "biomes"—Desert, Forest, Lake, and Mountain—each representing a unique area within the Pokémon world. Players progress through these biomes by engaging in a series of challenges that mirror the journey of a Pokémon Trainer.

The core loop involves discovering, catching, and training Pokémon. The game mechanics encourage players to shoot illuminated targets to collect Poké Balls, which are then used at the Pokedex captive ball to capture Pokémon. Successful combos are rewarded with Poké Balls, and specific combo sequences can trigger Eevee evolutions, allowing players to add these versatile Pokémon to their team.

Major character shots, dedicated to iconic starters like Squirtle, Charmander, Pikachu, and Bulbasaur, initiate unique character modes when hit three times, offering distinct gameplay objectives and challenges. The infamous villainous organization, Team Rocket, plays a significant role, with their hideout located at the top center of the playfield. Spelling out "B-A-T-T-L-E" initiates the Meowth balloon sequence, which, upon successful shooting, leads to multiball. Currently, the game features one Team Rocket multiball, with plans for two additional multiball modes and a mini-wizard mode in future updates.

Winning battles across all four biomes unlocks the ultimate challenge: the Pokémon Arena mode, a true test of a trainer’s skill and the player’s mastery of the pinball machine.

The Pokémon Phenomenon: A 30-Year Legacy

The launch of the Pokémon pinball machine coincides with a significant milestone: the 30th anniversary of the franchise. The journey of Pokémon from its inception as two Game Boy titles in 1996 to its current status as a global entertainment juggernaut is a remarkable narrative. The brand experienced explosive growth in its early years, reaching a peak around the turn of the millennium. While popularity saw a natural ebb, it was reignited in 2016 with the unprecedented success of the augmented reality mobile game, Pokémon GO. This resurgence demonstrated the enduring appeal and adaptability of the Pokémon universe, making it a prime candidate for the immersive and interactive medium of pinball.

Stern Pinball’s decision to base their machine on the animated TV series, rather than solely on the game mechanics, taps into a broad and nostalgic fanbase. The inclusion of animated clips and custom voiceovers, particularly for Pikachu and Giovanni, further enhances this connection, evoking fond memories for long-time fans while introducing the game to a new generation of players.

Official Statements and Industry Impact

The release of the Pokémon pinball machine is seen as a strategic move by Stern Pinball, aiming to capture a significant segment of the gaming market and leverage the immense popularity of the Pokémon brand. Seth Davis, President & CEO of Stern Pinball, expressed his enthusiasm during the announcement: "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."

The integration of Stern’s award-winning Insider Connected platform is another key aspect of the release. This technology allows players to track their progress, achievements, and even the specific Pokémon they catch across different machines and locations. This feature not only enhances player engagement but also provides valuable data for Stern Pinball and arcade operators, fostering a connected global community of pinball enthusiasts.

The collaboration with TPCi underscores the growing trend of major entertainment franchises venturing into the pinball space, recognizing its unique appeal as an interactive and social entertainment medium. The meticulous licensing process, while presenting challenges, ultimately ensures a high-quality product that resonates with fans of both pinball and Pokémon.

Pricing and Availability

The Pokémon by Stern Pinball machine is available through authorized Stern Pinball distributors and dealers worldwide. The suggested retail prices are as follows:

• Pro Edition: $6,999 (US MSRP)
• Premium Edition: $9,699 (US MSRP)
• Limited Edition: $12,999 (US MSRP)

Each machine comes with Stern Pinball’s industry-leading one-year warranty, reinforcing the company’s commitment to quality and reliability.

The introduction of Pokémon pinball is more than just a new game; it’s a convergence of two iconic entertainment forces, celebrating a rich legacy while forging new interactive experiences for fans of all ages. As players step up to the playfield, they will not only be testing their pinball skills but embarking on a nostalgic journey through the vibrant world of Pokémon, proving that the allure of catching them all remains as strong as ever.