Stern is making a G1 Transformers pinball machine

Stern Pinball is building a new Transformers pinball machine based on the original 1984 animated series. The company teased the new table today and set a full reveal date for May 20.

The machine uses the classic "More Than Meets the Eye" branding. Original Peter Cullen voice lines play over a glowing Matrix of Leadership.

This is not the first time Autobots and Decepticons have ended up under glass. Stern previously released a Transformers machine in 2011. That table leaned heavily into the live-action Michael Bay film aesthetic and mixed movie models with original designs. It included a large Megatron vehicle toy that fired pinballs and an Optimus Prime figure positioned over a ramp. The older machine also had separate Autobot Crimson and Decepticon Violet limited editions that changed the entire color scheme of the cabinet, right down to the powder-coated legs and side armor.

This new release leaves the live-action universe completely. It embraces the Generation 1 cartoon style that Hasbro has prioritized across its recent merchandise lines.

Three tiers of pricing

Stern will sell the machine in its usual three configurations. The base Pro model costs $6,999. The Premium version jumps to $9,699. The Limited Edition model tops out at $12,999.

The differences between Pro and Premium models usually involve physical playfield mechanisms. Pro models tend to replace complex moving parts or physical ball locks with static plastics and virtual locks to keep costs down and improve reliability for arcade operators. Premium models get the full mechanical ruleset designed by the team. The Limited Edition tier includes the Premium playfield mechanisms but adds exclusive cabinet art, upgraded sound systems, and a numbered plaque.

The machine will also integrate with Stern's Insider Connected platform. This system lets players scan a QR code on the lower apron before plunging their first ball. It tracks high scores globally, unlocks digital achievements for completing specific game modes, and helps players find other connected machines on location. Operators can also use the system to remotely monitor the machine's diagnostic health and coin drops.

Leaving the movies behind

Pinball manufacturers have spent the last few years mining 1980s and 1990s nostalgia with heavy success. The demographic that grew up with these cartoons now has the disposable income to buy arcade equipment for their basements. Tables based on Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Jurassic Park, and Venom all adopted custom comic or animated art styles rather than relying on live-action movie assets. A Generation 1 Transformers machine fits right into that strategy.

Using the cartoon license also frees the designers from the muddy, complex visual noise of the live-action films. Pinball playfields need clear visual language so players can track a silver ball moving at high speeds. The bright, distinct primary colors of the 1984 character designs are much better suited to playfield artwork and insert lighting. Red and purple LEDs will likely dominate the playfield to represent the two warring factions.

The exact playfield layout and character roster are still unknown. A Transformers pinball machine practically demands some kind of physical transformation gimmick on the playfield, whether that means ramps that shift positions or toys that change from vehicles to robots during multiball modes. We will see how Stern handles the mechanics when the countdown ends next Wednesday.