The Heavy Metal pinball machine, a creation of Stern Pinball, emerged in June 2020 as a distinctive title in the landscape of modern pinball. This machine, was not a standard release but a limited-edition project, born from a collaboration between Stern and Incendium, the publisher of Heavy Metal magazine. With a production run capped at a mere 100 units, Heavy Metal pinball was immediately positioned as a rare and sought-after piece, commemorating the 300th issue of the eponymous magazine.

History and Background

The genesis of Heavy Metal pinball lies in the desire to celebrate three decades of the iconic adult science fiction and fantasy magazine. Rather than developing a completely original playfield layout, Stern Pinball opted to re-theme their 2019 ‘Star Wars (Original Home Edition)’ pinball machine. This decision allowed for a quicker production timeline and focused resources on the unique art package, sound design, and overall aesthetic overhaul necessary to capture the essence of Heavy Metal. The design was spearheaded by George Gomez, a veteran in pinball design, ensuring a solid mechanical foundation. Jerry Thompson crafted the game's sound, Waison Cheng handled the software, Mimi Ernst provided animations, and Tom Kopera managed the mechanical engineering aspects.

Released on June 15th, 2020, Heavy Metal pinball was exclusively available for purchase through Incendium's website throughout 2020. This unusual distribution model bypassed traditional pinball distribution channels, adding to its exclusivity. Despite utilizing the playfield layout from the Star Wars Home Edition, the Heavy Metal machine distinguished itself with a full-size Stern cabinet, unlike its predecessor, and incorporated a larger dot matrix display. Each machine was shipped with an exclusive variant cover edition of Heavy Metal magazine issue 300, further cementing its collectible nature. Production commenced in December 2020, solidifying its place as a unique chapter in pinball history.

Signature Features and Design

Heavy Metal pinball is defined by its striking visual and auditory presentation. The most immediate standout features are the meticulously sculpted and internally illuminated figurines of Taarna and Nelson, characters synonymous with the Heavy Metal universe. Taarna, the warrior angel, and Nelson, the bizarre alien creature, are prominently placed on the playfield, serving as both thematic elements and interactive targets. These toys are not mere static decorations; their illumination enhances the playfield ambiance and draws player attention to key areas.

Beyond the figurines, the machine boasts playfield art blades, extending the artwork from the cabinet sides onto the playfield itself, creating a more immersive visual experience. The art package, generally lauded within the pinball community, captures the raw, edgy aesthetic of Heavy Metal magazine. Painted side rails further contribute to the custom look and feel of the machine, elevating it beyond a standard production model. The inclusion of original recordings from Sebastian Bach and Brendon Small, alongside tracks from the original Heavy Metal movie soundtrack featuring Blue Oyster Cult and Cheap Trick, provides an unparalleled sonic backdrop. This curated music selection is integral to the Heavy Metal experience, immersing players in the world of fantasy and science fiction that the magazine embodies.

Playfield and Mechanics

The playfield layout of Heavy Metal, while borrowed from the Star Wars Home Edition, is effectively utilized to create a fast-paced and engaging experience. It features two ramps, three pop bumpers, two slingshots, four standup targets, a 3-bank drop target, a spinning target, a bar target, and a horseshoe lane. A notable mechanical quirk is the simultaneous operation of the top two pop bumpers and both slingshots, adding a degree of unpredictability and frenetic energy to gameplay. One of the three ramps is a wireform, contributing to the visual variety and shot trajectory on the playfield. Two captive balls are also integrated into the design, offering unique shot opportunities and gameplay variation.

The playfield artwork is vibrant and dynamic, echoing the magazine's visual style. Lighting is bright and effectively highlights key playfield areas and features, creating a visually stimulating environment. The overall aesthetic is deliberately bold and aggressive, consistent with the Heavy Metal theme. The layout philosophy prioritizes speed and flow, encouraging players to maintain momentum and execute quick shots. While some have noted the layout's origins in a home edition machine, the Heavy Metal re-skin successfully transforms it into a thematically cohesive and visually distinct pinball experience.

Gameplay Dynamics

Heavy Metal pinball emphasizes fast, dynamic gameplay with a focus on mode stacking and multiball opportunities. The scoring system rewards accuracy and strategic shot selection, particularly during character-specific modes. Players can stack multiple game modes, increasing the complexity and potential rewards of each game. The machine features a 4-ball multiball, a staple for exciting pinball action, which is readily accessible and stackable with other modes.

Gameplay is designed to be challenging but rewarding, demanding precise flipper skills and an understanding of shot angles. The speed of the game necessitates good ball control, as rapid ball movement across the playfield is a defining characteristic. While specific details of all game modes and objectives require in-depth play, the core gameplay loop revolves around hitting targets, completing ramps, and triggering multiball sequences to maximize score and extend playtime. The combination of nostalgic 80s/90s pinball mechanics with modern design elements creates a gameplay experience that appeals to both seasoned players and those new to pinball.

Reception and Legacy

Reception to Heavy Metal pinball within the pinball community has been mixed, yet with a generally positive leaning. A primary point of contention is the re-used playfield layout. Some critics found it uninspired, citing its origin in a home edition machine and suggesting a lack of originality. Concerns were raised that the playfield felt somewhat bare compared to other modern pinball machines. Conversely, many players praised the fast and dynamic gameplay facilitated by this layout, appreciating the challenging shots and the satisfying flow of the game.

However, the art package and soundtrack consistently receive high praise. Many consider the artwork to be among Stern's best, particularly on the cabinet and backglass. The curated music selection is frequently lauded as one of the strongest soundtracks in pinball, significantly enhancing the overall experience. The inclusion of Taarna and Nelson figurines, painted side rails, and art blades are also acknowledged as high-quality additions that elevate the machine's presentation.

Despite criticisms of the layout's originality, many players find Heavy Metal pinball to be an engaging and enjoyable machine. Its limited production run of only 100 units has solidified its status as a rare collectible. While long-term software support remains a consideration given its limited nature, the machine's unique theme, striking aesthetics, and high-energy gameplay ensure its place as a memorable, if niche, title in the Stern Pinball catalog. It serves as a testament to the power of thematic integration and demonstrates how a re-skinned layout, when combined with a strong art and sound package, can create a distinct and desirable pinball experience.