Following a month brimming with the anticipation and release of several highly anticipated pinball titles, April 2026 presented a more measured pace within the industry. This shift in momentum has been meticulously chronicled in the latest installment of the Pinball Industry News PINcast, hosted by seasoned industry commentators Martin and Jonathan. The program, available for streaming and download, offers listeners a comprehensive, yet relaxed, overview of the significant developments and ongoing narratives shaping the pinball landscape.

Audio Maestros Reunite: Granner Returns to Pinball Sound Design

A notable highlight of the April PINcast is the return of Chris Granner, a luminary in the realm of pinball audio design, to the creation of sound packages for new machines. Granner, whose contributions have been instrumental in defining the sonic identity of numerous iconic pinball games, has not produced an audio package for a new release in thirteen years. His reappearance marks a significant event for enthusiasts and industry professionals alike. Granner is now collaborating with Adam Grubman on Turner Pinball’s forthcoming title, "Yukon Yeti." This partnership signals a potentially groundbreaking fusion of Granner’s established sonic artistry with Turner Pinball’s innovative game development. The impact of Granner’s return is expected to resonate deeply, as his signature soundscapes have historically enhanced player immersion and the overall memorability of pinball machines. Industry analysts anticipate that "Yukon Yeti" will likely set new benchmarks for audio quality and integration in modern pinball design, potentially influencing future sound development strategies across the sector.

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

In a move that speaks to the enduring appeal of beloved pinball machines, Cardona Pinball has launched a comprehensive 2.0 upgrade kit for the classic "Fish Tales" machine. This extensive enhancement package, branded as "Ultimate Fishing Challenge," aims to breathe new life into the 1992 Bally title, originally designed by Mark Ritchie. The upgrade is not merely cosmetic; it introduces a suite of significant functional and aesthetic improvements. These include entirely new game rules, designed to offer fresh challenges and replayability for both casual players and seasoned enthusiasts. Furthermore, the kit incorporates modern display technology with new backbox and playfield LCD panels, enabling more dynamic visual presentations and interactive elements. The soundscape has also been revitalized with new audio cues and effects, complementing the updated visual displays. Finally, new translite art has been developed to refresh the machine’s iconic visual appeal. The release of such an ambitious upgrade kit for a machine from the early 1990s underscores the growing trend of modernizing and extending the lifespan of classic pinball cabinets, catering to a market segment that values both nostalgia and contemporary gaming experiences. This approach not only preserves arcade heritage but also presents a sustainable business model for companies specializing in refurbishment and enhancement.

Stern Pinball Sponsors Comedy Festival in Key West

Stern Pinball has embarked on an unconventional sponsorship initiative, demonstrating a strategic diversification of its marketing efforts. The company has aligned itself with the Q-West2 comedy festival held in Key West, Florida, positioning itself as a "lifestyle sponsor." This collaboration saw a dedicated area at the festival populated with Stern Pinball’s latest game offerings. To further engage festival attendees, high score tournaments were organized, leveraging the company’s proprietary Insider Connected platform. Participants in these tournaments were eligible to earn a unique achievement badge within the Insider Connected ecosystem, adding a gamified incentive to the sponsorship. This move by Stern Pinball represents a deliberate effort to reach new demographics and broaden the perception of pinball beyond its traditional arcade confines. By associating with a cultural event like a comedy festival, Stern aims to introduce its products to a wider audience, potentially attracting individuals who may not typically frequent arcades or pinball expos. The use of Insider Connected for tournaments further reinforces the platform’s utility in driving engagement and community building, both within dedicated pinball circles and at broader entertainment events. The success of this sponsorship could pave the way for similar cross-industry collaborations in the future, highlighting pinball as a viable entertainment option in diverse social settings.

Hexa Pinball’s "The Three Musketeers" Continues European and US Tour

Hexa Pinball’s latest creation, "The Three Musketeers," has been on an extensive tour, showcasing the game at various European and United States exhibitions. While the game did not make its debut at the Texas Pinball Festival, its presence at numerous other shows has allowed a wider audience to experience the title. The PINcast provides listeners with an update on the game’s current exhibition schedule, encouraging those interested to seek out its next location. This touring strategy is a common and effective method for independent manufacturers to generate awareness and gather feedback for new games. By directly engaging with players at these events, Hexa Pinball can gauge public reception, identify areas for potential refinement, and build anticipation for the game’s eventual commercial release. The continued exhibition of "The Three Musketeers" suggests a sustained effort to maximize its exposure and capitalize on the enthusiasm generated at these gatherings. The details of its future appearances are a crucial piece of information for pinball enthusiasts eager to play the game.

Jersey Jack Pinball Partners with Broadway’s "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child"

Jersey Jack Pinball has forged a unique partnership with the critically acclaimed Broadway production of "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child." The collaboration features a custom "Harry Potter"-themed pinball machine situated backstage at the theatre, accessible to the cast and crew. Movie actor Tom Felton, known for his portrayal of Draco Malfoy in the "Harry Potter" film series, has been featured in a promotional video, demonstrating his engagement with the game and his rediscovery of the Wizarding World through pinball. This partnership represents a significant cross-promotional opportunity, leveraging the immense popularity of the "Harry Potter" franchise to introduce pinball to a new audience. The presence of a custom game for the cast further enhances the brand synergy and provides compelling visual content for marketing. The integration of pinball within the immersive world of Broadway theater underscores the game’s potential as a form of entertainment that complements other live performance art. This initiative highlights Jersey Jack Pinball’s commitment to innovative marketing and its ability to secure high-profile collaborations.

Jersey Jack Pinball Teases Future Projects at Pintastic New England

Further insights into Jersey Jack Pinball’s future development pipeline were revealed during a panel seminar at the Pintastic New England show. The session featured contributions from industry veterans Steve Ritchie and Mark Seiden, who provided details regarding the company’s upcoming game releases. While specific titles and themes were not fully disclosed in the PINcast summary, the involvement of Ritchie, a legendary pinball designer, and Seiden, a key figure in JJP’s operations, suggests that significant and potentially groundbreaking projects are in the works. This type of insider information shared at public events is invaluable for maintaining community engagement and building anticipation among dedicated pinball fans. The fact that details of upcoming games are being shared at such events indicates a transparent and community-focused approach by Jersey Jack Pinball, fostering a sense of shared excitement and investment in the company’s future.

Wonderland Amusement’s Latest Developments and Custom Merchandise

Wonderland Amusement is also making its mark on the industry, with the PINcast touching upon the company’s second original title. In addition to this new release, details were provided regarding a significant software update for their inaugural game. This indicates a commitment to ongoing support and enhancement of their product line, a crucial factor for customer satisfaction and long-term brand loyalty. Furthermore, an opportunity for enthusiasts to acquire custom "Monster League Hockey" player jerseys was highlighted. This offering caters to the passionate fan base, providing tangible merchandise that connects players to the game’s thematic elements and fosters a sense of belonging. Such merchandise initiatives are increasingly important for building brand identity and generating ancillary revenue streams within the pinball industry. The combined focus on new game development, software support, and fan-centric merchandise demonstrates a well-rounded strategy from Wonderland Amusement.

Conclusion: The April 2026 PINcast as the Industry’s Essential Update

The April 2026 edition of the Pinball Magazine and Pinball News PINcast serves as an indispensable resource for anyone invested in the pinball industry. Hosted by Martin and Jonathan, the program meticulously unpacks these diverse developments, from the return of audio design legends and classic game revitalizations to innovative marketing strategies and future game teasers. The PINcast library, readily accessible online, along with its presence on Spotify, ensures that these crucial industry updates are available to a global audience. As the year progresses and more major pinball expos and events unfold, the monthly PINcast promises to remain the definitive source for staying informed about the dynamic and ever-evolving world of pinball. The podcast’s consistent delivery of comprehensive news and insightful commentary solidifies its reputation as the publication the pinball industry itself listens to, offering a vital pulse on current trends, emerging technologies, and the creative endeavors shaping the future of the game.