Stern Pinball took to the showroom floor at CES 2023 with a number of luxury connected pinball machines. Rather than simply being analog or digital pinball machines, the latest devices from Stern blend the two into one. These pinball machines feature a traditional pinball floor with flippers, side buttons, and a ball-launching mechanism, but with the addition of a 16:9 digital display on the back panel.
This display can be used to play a variety of digital games while playing physical pinball. This includes the ability to compete with other players online, to track scores on global leaderboards, to complete daily, weekly, and special event challenges, and more. The connected features were developed with Insider Connected, a comprehensive technology initiative from Stern Pinball.
The connected pinball machines retail for an MSRP of $7,000 USD. Each device features a popular theme, such as Star Wars, Jurassic Park, and 007 James Bond.
Connected Pinball Machines
Stern Pinball Showcased its Latest Online Pinball Machines at CES 2023
Trend Themes
1. Connected Pinball Machines - Merging the physical and digital experience creates opportunities for companies to tap into new markets by combining traditional products with online features and gaming capabilities.
2. Gamification Arcade Machines - Incorporating gamification into physical products such as arcade machines creates opportunities to engage customers and increase customer loyalty through interactive features and rewards.
3. Online Competitions - Enabling online competitions and global leaderboards give businesses the chance to expand their audience reach by creating a sense of community and encouraging user-generated content.
Industry Implications
1. Gaming Industry - The incorporation of digital features and online capabilities creates a unique opportunity for the gaming industry to bridge the gap between traditional gaming and online gaming.
2. Arcade Game Industry - Gamifying physical products like arcade machines, pinball machines, and other arcade games can disrupt the industry and increase customer engagement through interactive features and rewards programs.
3. Theme Park Industry - Integrating connected pinball machines with popular themes, such as Star Wars and Jurassic Park, creates a new entertainment opportunity for theme parks to attract new customers and increase revenue streams.