Stern Pinball’s Mustang, released in April 2014, captures the raw power and iconic imagery of the Ford Mustang, aiming to translate the thrill of American muscle car culture into a dynamic pinball experience. Designed during Stern's SAM system era, Mustang presents a fusion of automotive passion and pinball mechanics, appealing to both car enthusiasts and players seeking fast-paced action.

History and Background

Manufactured by Stern Pinball, Mustang emerged from the design studio of John Trudeau, who conceptualized the game around the globally recognized Ford Mustang brand. The visual identity was crafted by a team of artists: John Youssi, responsible for the playfield and plastics artwork; Greg Freres, who designed the backbox sides and cabinet front; and Camilo Pardo, contributing artwork for the translite and lower cabinet sides. The auditory experience was shaped by David Thiel and Vince Pontarelli, handling music and sound design respectively, while software development was led by Jack Benson, Lonnie D. Ropp, Tanio Klyce, and Waison Cheng. Mechanics were engineered by John Rotharmel, and animations were created by Mark Galvez. Jerry Thompson provided callouts, enhancing the game's interactive atmosphere.

Production commenced in April 2014, with the Pro edition being the first to roll off the assembly line. Notably, a limited run of 50 commemorative Pro models was produced on April 17, 2014, to celebrate the Mustang's 50th anniversary. These special editions featured a unique plaque on the speaker/DMD panel. Following the Pro, both the Premium "Boss" and Limited Edition models were released in May 2014, expanding the Mustang lineup and offering varied features and collectibility. The game was advertised with all LED general illumination and control lamps, a feature becoming standard in modern pinball manufacturing.

Signature Features and Design

Mustang pinball machines are immediately recognizable by their automotive theme, prominently featuring Mustang branding and imagery. A key element across all editions is the inclusion of miniature Mustang car models. The Pro edition incorporates one of five randomly selected 1/24 scale Mustang toy cars positioned above the GEARS targets, adding a thematic toy element to the playfield.

The Premium "Boss" and Limited Edition models elevate this feature with a rotating turntable mechanism. Instead of a static car, these editions feature a 1/24 scale Boss Mustang model on a turntable, creating dynamic visual interest. This rotating car becomes a central playfield attraction, directly integrating with gameplay objectives and modes.

Beyond the central toy, differences emerge across the editions in terms of playfield mechanisms and cabinet features. The Pro model presents a standard pinball configuration focusing on core gameplay. The Premium "Boss" edition enhances the playfield with pop-up drop targets, adding an element of surprise and dynamic target presentation. A three-way stacked ramp system in the Premium and Limited Edition introduces more complex shot geometry, offering varied ramp paths and increasing gameplay depth. Additionally, a 360-degree bonus bowl feature, present in the Premium and Limited Editions, provides a unique ball spinning element, influencing bonus scoring and adding another layer of mechanical interaction.

The Limited Edition distinguishes itself further with exclusive features catering to collectors and enthusiasts. It includes a shaker motor, absent in the Pro but optionally available for the Premium, adding physical feedback during gameplay events. The Limited Edition also features a player button on the lockdown bar, a feature not present on the Pro or standard Premium. Aesthetically, the Limited Edition boasts unique artwork and a pony emblem on the speaker panel, setting it apart visually from the other editions and emphasizing its collectable nature. Production numbers also highlight the exclusivity of the Limited Edition, with only 500 units manufactured, compared to the broader production of the Pro and Premium models.

Playfield and Mechanics

The Mustang playfield is designed for speed and flow, characterized by two main ramps, four pop bumpers, and a dynamic arrangement of targets and toys. Across all editions, a captive ball, a spinning target, and a whirlpool feature are integrated, providing varied shot challenges and gameplay objectives. A set of five drop targets and additional standup targets populate the playfield, creating numerous shot opportunities and scoring possibilities.

The playfield layout encourages players to engage with ramps and targets to progress through game modes and trigger multiball events. The Pro edition features a straightforward playfield design emphasizing core pinball mechanics. The Premium and Limited Editions build upon this foundation with the inclusion of pop-up drop targets and the three-way ramp, adding layers of complexity to shot selection and strategy. The central turntable with the Mustang car acts as a focal point, visually and mechanically linking to specific game modes and scoring objectives.

Artwork across the playfield, designed by John Youssi, is vibrant and energetic, capturing the spirit of high-performance automotive culture. LED lighting is employed throughout the playfield, enhancing visibility and creating dynamic light shows that synchronize with gameplay events. The overall aesthetic is designed to be visually engaging, immersing players in the theme and fast-paced action of the game.

Gameplay Dynamics

Mustang pinball offers gameplay centered around gear shifting, racing, and achieving various modes inspired by the Mustang legacy. The game mechanics are designed to be accessible, allowing players to quickly understand the basic objectives while offering depth for experienced players to explore.

A key gameplay element is the Gear Shift Multiball, a central mode that challenges players to engage with the gear targets to initiate multiball action. The game features selectable modes from the start, giving players control over their gameplay progression and allowing for replayability through varied mode combinations. The scoring system rewards accurate shots to ramps, targets, and features, encouraging players to master the playfield layout and shot angles.

Unique to Mustang is the ability to choose the number of balls for multiball using the flipper buttons, a feature echoing mechanics found in other Stern machines of the era. This adds a strategic element to multiball initiation, allowing players to tailor risk and reward. Gameplay is characterized by its fast pace, demanding quick reflexes and precise flipper control. The inclusion of callouts by Jerry Thompson and sound effects, including engine revs and music fitting the automotive theme, enhances the immersive experience.

Reception and Legacy

Reception to Mustang within the pinball community has been varied. Some players appreciate the thematic integration, fast gameplay, and enjoyable modes, particularly those who are fans of cars and the Mustang brand. The game's accessibility and focus on fun, action-oriented pinball are frequently cited as strengths.

However, criticisms have also been voiced. Some players find the gameplay depth to be limited compared to other machines, suggesting that long-term engagement can wane. The playfield design has been described by some as uninspired, and the overall theme, while appealing to car enthusiasts, may not resonate universally within the broader pinball community. Concerns about the artwork quality, particularly on certain editions, and the perceived commercial nature of the theme have also been noted.

Despite mixed critical feedback, Mustang holds a place in Stern Pinball's catalog as a licensed theme machine that successfully captures the essence of its source material. Its legacy is perhaps as a solid, fast-paced game that appeals strongly to a specific niche of car and automotive enthusiasts, providing an engaging pinball experience centered around a globally recognized brand. While not necessarily considered a groundbreaking title in pinball history, Mustang represents a competent execution of a licensed theme, offering a fun and thematic pinball ride.