In January 2022, Stern Pinball unveiled Rush, a machine that immediately resonated with both pinball fans and devotees of the eponymous Canadian rock band. Designed by John Borg, with artwork by Michael Barnard, and sound by Bob Baffy, this title plunges players into the discography and mystique of Rush. Programmers Raymond Davidson and Tim Sexton brought the intricate ruleset to life, while callouts from band members Alex Lifeson and Geddy Lee, along with Ed Robertson of Barenaked Ladies, added authentic flavor to the experience. Rush pinball quickly became a sought-after game, lauded for its deep ruleset and immersive integration of the band's iconic music.

History and Background

Stern Pinball, known for its licensed themes and solid-state innovations, tapped into the extensive catalog of Rush, a band celebrated for complex compositions, lyrical depth, and a science-fiction leaning aesthetic. The design process involved close collaboration with Rush, ensuring the pinball experience captured the essence of their music and stage presence. Released in January 2022, the Rush pinball machine emerged in three distinct editions: Pro, Premium, and Limited Edition (LE). The Pro version, considered the baseline model, offered core gameplay, while the Premium and Limited Edition versions incorporated additional features and exclusive components to enhance the player experience and collector appeal. Production commenced in early 2022 and continues for the Pro and Premium models, with the Limited Edition capped at 1,000 units, each accompanied by a certificate of authenticity and signed elements.

A noteworthy piece of trivia surrounding the game's development is the involvement of Ed Robertson, a self-proclaimed Rush aficionado. Robertson not only contributed to coaching Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson for their callouts but also provided the initial "pilot" voice, demonstrating a commitment to authenticity and fan service throughout the game's creation.

Signature Features and Design

The Rush pinball machine is defined by its central "Time Machine" toy, a key interactive element present across all editions, though with significant variations. In the Pro edition, the Time Machine is a static molded feature, serving as a ramp and target. The Premium and Limited Edition versions elevate this toy into a motorized ramp with a dynamic clock mechanism. A physical clock with a moving minute hand becomes a focal point in these upgraded editions, directly influencing gameplay by triggering modes and multiballs based on the time displayed. This clock is not merely an aesthetic addition; it's integrated into the ruleset, adding a layer of thematic depth.

Beyond the Time Machine, another signature design element is the "subway" system, a transparent insert on the playfield allowing players to visually track pinballs beneath the playfield surface. This feature, consistent across all editions, adds a visual flourish and a sense of depth to the playfield.

The primary distinctions between the editions lie in the additional toys and aesthetic upgrades. The Premium edition introduces the motorized Time Machine ramp and clock, alongside a powder-coated steel bottom arch. The Limited Edition takes it further, adding a shaker motor for haptic feedback, mirrored backglass, playfield art blades, anti-reflective glass, and unique cosmetic enhancements like high gloss powder-coated armor and legs. Production volume is the most significant differentiator, with the LE strictly limited to 1000 units, making it the most exclusive and collectible version. These features are not just cosmetic upgrades; the motorized Time Machine and clock directly impact gameplay, offering richer interactive elements and enhancing the thematic immersion for Premium and LE players.

Playfield and Mechanics

The playfield of Rush pinball is a meticulously crafted landscape designed for flow and engagement. It features a three-flipper layout, with two standard flippers at the bottom and a third upper flipper positioned to control shots towards the upper playfield and Time Machine ramp. Three ramps, strategically placed, guide pinballs across the playfield, feeding into different areas and features. Three pop bumpers and two slingshots provide classic pinball action, while eight standup targets and a three-bank drop target array offer distinct shot objectives. A spinning target adds an element of chance and skill, and two scoops and a kick-out hole serve as ball collection and ejection points.

A notable mechanical feature is the bidirectional thrust magnet, situated near the Time Machine ramp. This magnet manipulates pinballs dynamically, adding an unpredictable element to gameplay and interacting with specific modes. The playfield incorporates a ramp diverter, altering ball paths and adding strategic choices for the player. A roll-under wireform and a free ball return lane behind the left flipper offer opportunities for skillful saves. The right side dual inlanes increase ball control options and flow.

Artwork on the playfield, consistent across editions, depicts imagery inspired by Rush's album art and lyrical themes, though reception to the specific style has been varied within the pinball community. Lighting is a crucial aspect of the playfield aesthetic. All editions feature extensive LED lighting, with the Premium and Limited Edition models often incorporating enhanced RGB lighting systems for more dynamic and customizable light shows that synchronize with game events and music. The overall aesthetic aims for a blend of rock concert energy and science-fiction mystique, reflecting Rush's artistic identity.

Gameplay Dynamics

Rush pinball’s gameplay is characterized by its deep and branching ruleset, driven by the selection of 16 Rush songs at the start of each ball. Each song corresponds to a different game mode, offering diverse objectives and challenges. This song-based mode selection is a core element, allowing players to tailor their gameplay experience and explore different facets of Rush’s discography.

Gameplay progression involves completing song modes, triggering multiballs, and advancing through various stages to reach higher levels of scoring and wizard modes. The Time Machine multiball, in particular, is a central objective, activated by skillful shots to the Time Machine ramp and interacting with the clock feature in Premium and LE editions. The game incorporates multiple multiball events, including a six-ball multiball, creating chaotic and high-scoring moments.

Unique gameplay mechanics include the action button on the lockdown bar, used to activate special features or enhance shots during gameplay, adding another layer of player interaction. The scoring system is complex, rewarding players for completing song modes, hitting specific targets, achieving combos, and progressing through the game's narrative layers. For example, completing song modes unlocks further modes and scoring multipliers, encouraging players to strategically choose their song selections and master the objectives within each mode. Skillful play involves managing ball control, accurately hitting ramps and targets, and understanding the nuances of each song mode to maximize scoring potential.

Reception and Legacy

Reception of Rush pinball within the pinball community has been generally positive, particularly among fans of the band. The integration of Rush's music and band member callouts has been widely praised as immersive and enhancing the overall experience. Players appreciate the deep and intricate ruleset, offering substantial replayability and a sense of discovery as they delve deeper into the game's mechanics. The flow of the game, when shots are executed correctly, is often cited as satisfying, with specific shots like the Time Machine ramp being highlights.

However, criticisms have emerged, particularly regarding the playfield layout. Some players find certain shot angles awkward or unforgiving, leading to frustrating drains. Artwork has also received mixed feedback, with some considering it less appealing compared to other Stern titles. The complexity of the ruleset, while appreciated by experienced players, can be overwhelming for newcomers, requiring a significant investment of time to fully grasp the game's nuances.

Despite these criticisms, Rush pinball has solidified its place as a significant music-themed pinball machine. Its influence can be seen in its approach to integrating music deeply into gameplay mechanics, setting a benchmark for future licensed music pinball titles. The game's legacy is still unfolding, but it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of music-themed pinball and Stern's ability to create immersive and feature-rich machines that resonate with both dedicated pinball enthusiasts and fans of the featured themes.