Before video games took control of children's playscapes, pinball machines were the go-to format for arcade games, and the Makerball machine aims to bring those nostalgic systems back. Rather than fronting the exorbitant amount that it can cost to purchase an authentic, era-specific pinball machine, Makerball skips the middleman and lets consumers build their own pinball games.
With Makerball, the only limit to the game is the consumer's creativity. The basic kit comes with mechanical flippers, steel balls, wires and copper foil for creating electronic obstacles, several physical obstacles, and the structure itself. However, the fun is in building on top of those basics. With just a little bit of basic circuitry knowledge and some craftiness, consumers can turn the bare bones of Makerball into any game that they imagine.
Homemade Pinball Machines
'Makerball' Lets Consumers Create Their Own Custom Pinball Machines
Trend Themes
1. DIY Pinball Machines - Creating and customizing your own pinball machines is becoming a popular trend as it allows consumers to personalize their gaming experience.
2. Nostalgic Gaming - The resurgence of pinball machines taps into the nostalgia of adults who grew up playing arcade games and offers a unique alternative to modern digital gaming experiences.
3. Interactive DIY Kits - The popularity of Makerball highlights the trend of interactive do-it-yourself kits that provide consumers with the tools and materials to create their own customized products.
Industry Implications
1. Gaming and Entertainment - The pinball machine trend presents an opportunity for the gaming and entertainment industry to tap into the nostalgic market and offer more interactive, customizable gaming experiences.
2. Craft and Hobby - The DIY pinball machine trend opens up opportunities for the craft and hobby industry to provide materials, tools, and resources for consumers who want to build and customize their gaming machines.
3. Education and Learning - The Makerball DIY kit offers an innovative way for the education and learning industry to teach basic circuitry knowledge and foster creativity in building customized pinball games.