How Apps and Connectivity Are Reviving a Classic
Pinball is back in a big way. Once relegated to nostalgic corners of arcades and basements, pinball is experiencing a remarkable resurgence as more people discover its timeless appeal. The rise of location pinball—the practice of playing pinball in public venues—has been fueled by modern tools like Pinball Map, Pindigo, and Stern Insider Connected. These apps and platforms not only connect players but also offer new revenue opportunities for businesses willing to embrace this revival.
The Evolution of Pinball Culture
Pinball has a storied history, from its origins in the early 20th century to its golden age in the 1970s and 1980s. But the advent of video games and home consoles in the 1990s caused a decline in pinball’s popularity. Now, a mix of nostalgia and modern technology is breathing new life into the game, drawing both veteran players and newcomers into its fold.
One major factor driving this revival is location pinball. Public venues like bars, breweries, coffee shops, and even laundromats are integrating pinball machines into their offerings. These machines don’t just add charm; they create social and competitive experiences that appeal to today’s entertainment-seekers.
Great businesses for Location Pinball
- Arcades
- Pinball Museums
- Pool Halls/Billiards
- Bars
- Breweries
- Pizza Places/Parlors
- Restaurants/Diners
- Movie Theaters
- Bowling Alleys
- Laundromats
- Amusement Centers
- Hotels & Resorts
- Barber Shops
- Niche Retail Stores
- VFW, American Legion, Knights of Columbus Halls
- Ice Rinks
- Sports Complex
- Roller Rinks
- Trampoline Parks
- Outdoor and Indoor Water Parks
- Kids Birthday Party Destinations
- Car Dealerships
- College Student Unions
- Nursing Homes
- Country Clubs
- Strip Malls/Shopping Mall Game Rooms
- Record Stores
- Music/Guitar Shops
- Convenience Stores
- Music Venues
- Niche Museums
- Laser Tag places
- Airbnb & Vrbo
- Dance Clubs
- Food Halls
- Ice Cream Parlors/Shops
- Donut Shops
- Airports
- Train Stations
- Tattoo Parlors
Apps Driving the Revival
The modern pinball resurgence owes much of its success to apps that make it easier than ever to find, play, and compete on pinball machines anywhere in the world. Here’s how they’re transforming the landscape:
Pinball Map
Pinball Map created by Ryan Taylor-Gratzer and Scott Wainstock is a comprehensive, crowd-sourced directory of pinball locations. Available as a website and an app, it allows users to search for machines near them, report new locations, and update the status of existing machines. This real-time resource helps players discover local venues and keeps pinball accessible and engaging. For businesses, being listed on Pinball Map can drive foot traffic and attract a dedicated audience. More and more players are starting to regularly search and travel to new business in search of new and unique pinball machines to play
Stern Insider Connected
Stern Insider Connected, developed by Stern Pinball (the world’s largest pinball manufacturer) integrates internet connectivity directly into their machines. Players can create profiles, track achievements, and access exclusive content. Insider Connected also allows operators to monitor machine performance remotely, ensuring smooth operation and maximizing revenue potential. For businesses, this connectivity turns pinball into a data-driven attraction that keeps players engaged. Insider Connected was first released on the “Godzilla” pinball machine in 2021 and can be retrofitted on any Stern Spike 2 Platform Machine starting with Batman 66 released in 2016.
Pindigo
Pindigo created by Michael Szabo and Brendan Turner is a score-tracking app that takes the social aspect of pinball to the next level. This app works with all pinball machines as it keeps track of scores by having players upload pictures of their backglass scores directly into the app. Players can log their scores, compete with friends, and even set challenges. This gamification creates an ecosystem of friendly rivalry and skill-building, encouraging repeat visits to venues hosting pinball machines. Businesses benefit as players return to beat their high scores or participate in local competitions. While Stern Insider Connected is outstanding and innovative because you can scan a code and it automatically logs your score it only works on Stern pinball machines after 2015.
Revenue Opportunities for Businesses
Integrating pinball machines into a venue or business offers several advantages:
- Increased Foot Traffic: Pinball enthusiasts actively seek out locations with machines, bringing in customers who may not have visited otherwise.
- Engagement and Retention: Pinball fosters social interaction and competition, encouraging customers to stay longer and spend more.
- Cross-Promotion Opportunities: Businesses can tie events, such as tournaments or pinball nights, to other promotions, boosting overall revenue.
- Low Maintenance, High Reward: Modern machines with connectivity features like Stern Insider Connected make it easier to maintain and maximize earnings.
The Future of Pinball
As apps and technology continue to evolve, the population of location pinball players is poised to grow even further and open opportunities for businesses to become destinations in their respective cities and towns with an enthuiastic and growing audience. Additionally, the sense of community fostered by these platforms ensures that pinball remains more than just a pastime—it becomes a shared passion.
For players, the revival of location pinball is a chance to experience the joy of the silver ball in new and exciting ways. For business owners, it’s an opportunity to tap into a loyal and growing market while providing an unforgettable customer experience. Thanks to apps like Pinball Map, Pindigo, and Stern Insider Connected, pinball isn’t just back—it’s thriving.
The goal of Wizard Mode is to become a tool for pinball operators to leverage the interest around the game and these apps and turn it into a successful business venture while helping to build and support your local pinball community