Author: Billy Madden
San Diego Comic-Con never fails to deliver new and thrilling experiences, and this year, Stern Pinball’s unveiling of the John Wick pinball game was no exception. As a fan of both the John Wick franchise and pinball, I couldn’t wait to see how these two worlds would collide.
From the moment I walked into the Stern Pinball Pop-Up Arcade, I was struck by the atmosphere. The entire setup felt like a nostalgic trip back to a retro arcade, yet it was filled with modern innovations. Stern had transformed a ballroom into a haven for pinball fanatics, with machines from various IPs like Jurassic Park and Godzilla alongside the new John Wick game. The energy in the room was electric, and it was refreshing to see so many people engaged with pinball rather than screen-based games.
The John Wick pinball machine immediately impressed me with its detailed design. The machine used the same fonts and artwork from the movies, adding an authentic touch that fans of the franchise would surely appreciate. One of the standout features was the ability to perform “contracts,” which are missions where players hit highlighted targets to score points, much like Wick’s assignments in the films. This feature, combined with Stern’s online connectivity, allows players to compete globally, earning exclusive badges and seeing their scores stack up against others worldwide.
Playing the game was an exhilarating experience. The gameplay captures the intensity of the John Wick films, with chaotic action that keeps you on your toes. The board is adorned with iconic movie elements, such as Wick’s car and the Continental Hotel, which serve as targets. Fair warning to new players: I found it challenging to discern the missions and contracts without having had more time to familiarize myself with the game. It may take a lot of time and practice to understand this machine’s ins-and-outs.
Stern’s innovative dynamic AI combat system was also a highlight. This system controls the enemy lights on the playfield, creating a unique challenge in each session by dynamically responding to player actions. It’s an impressive feature that sets the John Wick pinball game apart from other machines​.
The exclusive merchandise at the event was equally impressive. A jaw-dropping model of Robert Shaw connected to their Jaws pinball machine was so lifelike that people thought it was real. This kind of attention to detail showcases Stern’s dedication to creating immersive and engaging experiences.
The fans’ reactions were overwhelmingly positive. People were having a blast, and the long lines at some machines underscored the excitement and enjoyment. Although I missed seeing Keanu Reeves in person, his presence at the convention floor added to the buzz and hype surrounding the game.
While checking out the machines, I was honored to speak with Stern leadership. Their passion for pinball was evident as they explained the features of the John Wick machine and their other titles. One of them said he had six pinball machines in his apartment! Talk about passion.
From a mental health perspective, pinball offers a unique form of therapeutic escape. Despite its chaotic nature, it allows players to focus intensely, potentially entering a “flow zen-like” state as they strive to perfect their skills. This kind of focused engagement can be both challenging and rewarding, offering a brief respite from daily stressors.
Additionally, there’s a strong sense of nostalgia that comes with playing pinball. For many, it evokes fond memories of simpler times spent in arcades or family game rooms. This nostalgic element can provide emotional comfort and a sense of connection to the past, further enhancing the therapeutic benefits of the game.
My overall takeaway from the event was one of joy and nostalgia. The John Wick pinball game is a fantastic addition to Stern’s lineup, blending modern technology with the timeless appeal of pinball. Whether you’re a fan of John Wick or a pinball enthusiast, I highly recommend checking out Stern’s Pop-Up Arcade next year. It’s a great way to get some space from the chaos of the exhibit floor while having family-friendly fun.
A big thank you to Stern for such a wonderful experience! For more information on their pinball machines, visit Stern Pinball.
Check out all the photos from this event and others we attended at SDCC 2024!