For aficionados of pinball and the mystical world of Dungeons & Dragons, a spectacular, albeit pricey, piece of arcade art has arrived that’s bound to catch your eye.
Pinball machines hold a special place in my heart. They remind me of an earlier era yet have managed to endure, becoming even more dazzling with time. I’d love to have one at home. Imagine not having to shell out quarters at the local arcade every time. But let’s be real, the cost to own one—especially a dazzling machine like the new Dungeons & Dragons-themed unit—is quite steep. Stern Pinball, a powerhouse in the pinball industry, has pieced together this masterpiece, which you can get a sneak peek of in the video below.
In collaboration with Hasbro and Wizards of the Coast, this machine celebrates Dungeons & Dragons’ 50th anniversary. It promises an “epic and thrilling journey” into the forgotten realms, filled with legendary foes like a red dragon, a gelatinous cube, a mimic, Sammaster the lich, Xanathar the beholder, and an owlbear. You’ll also travel to iconic places, including spots in Faerûn such as Arabel and Westgate. And let’s not forget the special voices bringing it all to life: Critical Role’s own Matthew Mercer, Laura Bailey, Marisha Ray, and Luke Gygax, son of Gary Gygax, the game’s co-creator.
A surprising voice in the mix is none other than Gerard Way from My Chemical Romance. Honestly, I’m not sure how he ended up on this project, but it’s a fun trivia piece for any pinball machine owner. But before you rush to buy, brace yourself for the price.
The entry-level Pro edition starts at $7000. Opting for the Premium model will cost you $9700. If you’re feeling extravagant, the Limited Edition, limited to a mere 740 units, will set you back a whopping $13,000. Though this machine is undeniably cool, I think I’ll admire it from afar.
