Stern Officially Reveals and Releases Pokémon Pinball Machine

The wait is over — Stern Pinball and The Pokémon Company International have officially unveiled Pokémon by Stern Pinball, a full-size licensed pinball machine that is now available worldwide. This is the first time the Pokémon franchise has been adapted into a modern physical arcade pinball cabinet, and it’s far more ambitious than fans expected.

Powered by Stern’s SPIKE 3 technology, the machine turns players into Pokémon Trainers, bringing catching, battling, and team-building into an interactive pinball experience.

A Pokémon Journey… In a Pinball Cabinet

In Pokémon by Stern Pinball, players travel across four different habitats where they discover and catch Pokémon while battling rivals and confronting Team Rocket.

The table isn’t just themed artwork — it’s fully integrated into gameplay:

• Shoot a mechanically animated Poké Ball to catch Pokémon
• Build a team and complete your Pokémon Collection
• Battle rival Trainers in custom battle sequences
• Face Giovanni and Team Rocket events

One of the highlights is an animatronic Pikachu that reacts to gameplay and cheers you on while you play. Meanwhile, an interactive Meowth balloon toy swoops into the arena to challenge the player during encounters.

Premium and Limited Edition machines also include a magnetized battle arena mechanic that can physically alter the ball’s movement during gameplay.

The machine also includes video clips from the original Pokémon anime, custom character voice lines for Pikachu and Giovanni, and of course the classic Pokémon theme song.

Connected Gameplay and Collecting

The cabinet uses Stern’s Insider Connected system, allowing players to log into machines.

Any Pokémon you catch while playing is permanently saved to your online Pokémon collection, viewable inside the Insider Connected app — essentially turning every play session into progress across multiple arcades and locations.

Three Models Available

Stern is releasing the machine in three versions:

Pro Model — $6,999 USD MSRP
The standard version featuring the full gameplay experience, animated Poké Ball, ramps, targets, and Pokémon catching system.

Premium Model — $9,699 USD MSRP
Adds enhanced toys and mechanics, including the interactive electromagnet battle arena and upgraded features.

Limited Edition Model — $12,999 USD MSRP (Only 750 Units Worldwide)
The collector version includes:

• Expression Lighting System
• Speaker lighting effects
• Mirrored backglass artwork
• HD cabinet decals
• Custom Pokémon armor trim
• Upgraded audio system
• Anti-reflection playfield glass
• Shaker motor
• Numbered plaque
• Signed certificate of authenticity
• Exclusive Insider Connected owner badge

A Nostalgic Celebration of Pokémon

Stern Pinball CEO Seth Davis described the project as:

“A true celebration of nostalgia, craftsmanship, and the enduring adventure of Pokémon — brought to life through immersive pinball gameplay, thrilling battles, and the timeless excitement of catching Pokémon.”

The machine integrates classic anime footage and music specifically to appeal to longtime fans who grew up with the original series.

Availability

Pokémon by Stern Pinball is available now through Stern Pinball distributors worldwide. Due to the Limited Edition being restricted to only 750 units, it is expected to sell out quickly among collectors.

For many fans, this may become one of the most unique Pokémon experiences ever released — not a video game, not merchandise, but a full physical arcade adventure where you literally catch Pokémon with a pinball.