Stern Pinball has officially unveiled its highly anticipated second cornerstone game of the year, "Transformers: More Than Meets The Eye!", a thrilling new pinball machine that aims to reignite the epic saga of the Autobots and Decepticons for both seasoned enthusiasts and a new generation of players. This announcement marks a significant moment for the pinball industry, especially given the enduring popularity of the Transformers franchise, which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. The game’s release taps into a growing trend of nostalgia-driven entertainment appealing to adults who grew up with these iconic characters.

This is not Stern Pinball’s first foray into the Transformers universe. In 2011, the company released a successful George Gomez-designed pinball machine that was groundbreaking for its integration of QR codes. These codes directed players to a dedicated microsite, offering detailed game rules, in-game music selections, and behind-the-scenes development information. While that microsite is no longer active, the innovation foreshadowed a deeper integration of digital and physical gameplay that Stern Pinball has continued to evolve.

The 2011 "Transformers" machine was offered in Pro and Limited Edition (LE) variants, with the LE model further subdivided into three distinct versions. These included an Autobot-themed crimson package, a Decepticon-themed violet version, and a third that split the theme with Decepticons on the left and Autobots on the right, complete with a dual-color lock bar. Fifteen years later, the battle between these iconic factions is back, this time celebrating the 40th anniversary of the original Transformers movie.

The new "Transformers: More Than Meets The Eye!" model is designed by Elliot Eismin, with Elizabeth Gieske leading the software development. True to Stern’s cornerstone game model, it is available in three distinct versions: Pro, Premium, and Limited Edition. This time, the Limited Edition comes in a single, highly collectible variant. Interestingly, it echoes the split color scheme of the 2011 LE model, featuring a crimson and violet paint package, albeit with the colors reversed.

A Detailed Look at the Cabinet Designs

Stern Pinball has meticulously crafted the exterior aesthetics for each model, ensuring a visually striking presentation that reflects the Transformers’ dual nature.

Pro Model

The Pro model, as the entry-level offering, features robust artwork that clearly delineates the Autobot and Decepticon factions. Images reveal a dynamic portrayal of the characters across the cabinet, backbox, and translite. The left and right sides of the cabinet showcase the ongoing conflict, with detailed illustrations of iconic Transformers. The front view presents a commanding presence, while the backbox side artwork continues the narrative. The translite artwork offers a classic depiction of the Transformers in action, and the model includes a plaque denoting its place within the product line. The bottom arch artwork further enhances the visual theme, with distinct Autobot and Decepticon motifs on either side.

Premium Model

The Premium model builds upon the Pro’s aesthetic, offering enhanced visual elements. The left and right sides of the cabinet present a more detailed and vibrant interpretation of the Transformers’ world. The front view and backbox side artwork maintain the high-quality graphics. Similar to the Pro, the translite artwork captures the essence of the franchise, and a plaque identifies the Premium version. The cabinet artwork is further elaborated, and the bottom arch features intricate designs that complement the overall theme.

Limited Edition (LE) Model

The Limited Edition model represents the pinnacle of visual design and exclusivity. Its crimson and violet split paint scheme immediately sets it apart, symbolizing the ongoing war between the Autobots and Decepticons. The cabinet artwork is rich and detailed, featuring laser-cut side rails that house integrated LED lighting, a signature feature of the LE version. The backbox side artwork is equally impressive, and the cabinet artwork boasts a premium finish. The LE model features a mirrored backglass, adding a unique reflective quality that enhances the visual depth. A sequentially numbered plaque underscores its limited production run. The bottom arch artwork on the LE model is particularly elaborate, reflecting its premium status.

A notable detail across all three models is the inclusion of warning text above the display panel’s keyhole. This text advises of high voltage presence and stresses that service should only be performed by qualified personnel, a practical addition likely aimed at both professional arcade operators and home users.

Playfield Innovations and Variations

While the external aesthetics differ, the core gameplay experience is designed to be consistent across all models, with variations primarily in the complexity and inclusion of certain physical features. All three models feature the same playfield layout and artwork, with differences arising from the mechanisms and decals installed.

Limited Edition Playfield

The Limited Edition model is a showcase of Stern Pinball’s most advanced features. It is a six-ball game with three flippers, including an additional flipper positioned midway up the right side of the playfield. The playfield is visually divided into Autobot (left) and Decepticon (right) zones, mirroring the cabinet’s color scheme.

A key differentiator for the LE model is the pre-installed Expression dual-sided cabinet and speaker lighting system. This system synchronizes with game events, creating an immersive visual experience. The LE model also features laser-cut side rails for external cabinet lighting, further enhancing its visual appeal.

Central to the LE playfield are four custom sculpted toys: Optimus Prime and Megatron at the top, Soundwave on the right, and Grimlock on the left. Megatron is a fully animatronic figure with an articulated fusion cannon capable of rotating and firing pinballs. Soundwave serves as a ball lock mechanism, with its cassette deck opening to release balls after sufficient hits on a target. Optimus Prime is a static bash toy, with hits registered on his legs. Grimlock, the Dinobot leader, is also a prominent sculpted figure.

In front of Megatron is a scoop fed by a short jump ramp, protected by a three-bank drop target. The presence of these targets is crucial for accessing the scoop and adjacent stand-up targets.

Premium Model Playfield

The Premium model shares much of the LE’s playfield functionality and visual design, including the same artwork package and key toys: Optimus Prime, Megatron, Soundwave, and Grimlock. It also features the three-flipper setup and the Autobot/Decepticon division.

However, the Premium model does not include the integrated Expression lighting system for the cabinet and speakers, nor the laser-cut side rails for external lighting. These features are available as add-ons for other models but are standard on the LE. The interior cabinet art blades are also absent from the Premium version as a standard feature.

Pro Model Playfield

The Pro model, while maintaining the same overall playfield layout and artwork, makes several concessions in terms of physical features to achieve a more accessible price point. The most noticeable omissions are the sculpted Grimlock and Soundwave toys, which are replaced by flat, illustrated plastic cutouts. Despite the absence of the physical toys, their corresponding targets remain, ensuring they are still incorporated into the game’s rules and objectives.

Furthermore, the Pro model features a static Megatron toy, lacking the articulation and ball-firing cannon found on the LE and Premium versions. This means the mechanisms for rotating Megatron and feeding balls through his cannon are not installed, and the wireform ramp that feeds into it is also absent. The Insider Connected scanner is also positioned differently on the Pro model compared to the other two.

Despite these reductions, the Pro model retains the Optimus Prime bash toy and the three-bank drop target and scoop mechanism in front of Megatron. The inclusion of laser-cut ramps on all models ensures a consistent playfield experience across the range.

Game Mechanics and Objectives

The core gameplay loop across all "Transformers: More Than Meets The Eye!" models revolves around engaging with the Autobot and Decepticon factions, collecting Energon Cubes, teaming up with the Dinobots, and collecting Transformers Tech Spec cards. The game is designed to incorporate elements from the original 1984 animated television series, featuring video clips and story-driven missions.

A significant highlight, celebrating the 40th anniversary of "The Transformers: The Movie" (1986), is the inclusion of a special mode featuring the iconic song "The Touch" by Stan Bush. The game also boasts custom call-outs from legendary voice actors, including Peter Cullen as Optimus Prime and Frank Welker as Megatron and Soundwave, alongside original music from Knights of Unicron.

Stern Pinball’s Insider Connected platform is integrated across all models, enabling players to track their progress, earn Cyber Coins for exclusive challenge modes, and engage in a "Prime Training" mode where Autobots guide players through pinball mastery. The game also introduces a head-to-head competitive mode for two players.

Media Day and Official Launch

Stern Pinball held a Media Day on Wednesday, May 20th, coinciding with the game’s reveal. While recording of the introductory remarks by Matthew Guyer, Stern’s VP of Marketing, was not permitted, the company emphasized the appeal of themes like Transformers and Pokémon to a demographic of adults in their 40s, many of whom may not be traditional pinball fans but are drawn to themed merchandise.

Attendees were given hands-on time with the machines, and gameplay videos were captured by correspondent M. G. Brown. The game’s trailer, also showcased at Media Day, provided a comprehensive overview of its features and theme.

Official Statement and Pricing

In their official announcement, Stern Pinball highlighted the "Transformers: More Than Meets The Eye!" game’s ability to deliver an immersive and action-packed pinball experience. Seth Davis, President & CEO of Stern Pinball, stated, "The TRANSFORMERS franchise has inspired generations with its timeless battle between good and evil. 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 Limited Edition model, restricted to 750 units globally, includes exclusive features such as the Expression Lighting System, a mirrored backglass, custom armor, an upgraded audio system, anti-reflection playfield glass, a shaker motor, and a sequentially numbered plaque.

The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the Pro model is $6,999, with the Premium and Limited Edition models priced higher, reflecting their enhanced features and exclusivity.

The release of "Transformers: More Than Meets The Eye!" underscores Stern Pinball’s strategic approach to leveraging popular intellectual properties to attract a broader audience to the world of pinball. By blending nostalgic themes with innovative gameplay and cutting-edge technology, the company aims to ensure the enduring appeal of this classic arcade entertainment.