On January 5, 2015, Stern Pinball announced their newest game of the year, WWE Wrestlemania! Stern is calling players into the ring as WWE superstars embarking on an amazing quest to become the WWE worldwide heavyweight champion. Players train their wrestlers and then are able to compete in a series of matches leading them on the road to Wrestlemania.
Both of the WWE Pro and Limited Edition machines feature an innovative upper pinball playfield wrestling ring. With flipper buttons, the players control two “Slammer” slingshot-style kickers in the ropes of the ring. Completing the three drop target bank starts a new wrestling match. Players rack up points and are able to “pin” opponents in the ring by shooting into a kick out hole. By keeping the ball in the ring and hitting as many targets as possible players will advance through the match. There are multiple ramps to guide the ball throughout gameplay, while amazing lightshows highlight the all LED playfield. The ten licensed songs include intro music for wrestlers that players choose. WWE announcers Jerry “the King” Lawlor and Michael Cole add a lot to the play by play excitement.
Hulk Hogan (wrestling legend) will individually autograph each of the numbered WWE Legends of Wrestlemania Limited Edition (LE) machines on a bottom arch mounted gold plaque. This collectible must be limited to only 400 autographs. The LE game art features classic WWE stars, including Hulk Hogan of course. Actual WWE wrestling action is projected on the LE’s replica “Titantron” playfield level 5.7 inch LCD directly above the ring. The ball is always wild when it comes into contact with the LE’s exclusive “Chaos” spinning DISC while a third “Wham! Arm” flipper allows players to knock the ball off a wire ramp.
The WWE Wrestlemania pinball machine is the first machine to feature Stern’s recently announced SPIKETM electronics hardware system. This new technology reduces product intricacy and simplifies manufacturing, resulting in more reliable and easier-to-service games. WWE Wrestlemania comes equipped with five computers in it that each control different parts of the game. All players will most certainly appreciate the higher quality sound, increased illumination effects and a more engaging overall game experience.
The Pro model has an MSRP suggested retail price of $5,495, though pricing for the Limited Edition version has not been announced as of yet.