11th March 2021

Pinball

MARVEL AND STERN PINBALL ASSEMBLE FOR THE AVENGERS: INFINITY QUEST STERN HEADS-UP PINBALL INVITATIONAL

MARVEL AND STERN PINBALL ASSEMBLE FOR THE AVENGERS: INFINITY QUEST STERN HEADS-UP PINBALL INVITATIONAL https://gadvending.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Avengers-speakers.jpg 518 755 GAD Vending GAD Vending https://gadvending.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Avengers-speakers.jpg 11th March 2021 9th March 2021

CHICAGO, IL – March 2, 2021 – Stern Pinball, Inc., a global lifestyle brand based on the iconic and outrageously fun modern American game of pinball, announced today the Marvel and Stern Pinball Avengers: Infinity Quest Stern Heads-Up Pinball Invitational. This action-packed competition will take place solely on the new Avengers: Infinity Quest pinball machines. Players will race against the clock and each other in objective-based challenges with the ultimate winner bringing home a brand-new Avengers: Infinity Quest pinball machine!

This adrenaline-inducing event will be streamed live across Marvel’s official Twitch channel (twitch.tv/marvel), Stern Pinball’s Facebook page (facebook.com/sternpinball) and YouTube channel (youtube.com/sternpinball) on Friday, March 12th at 6 pm CST. Twitch pinball superstar Jack Danger (AKA Dead Flip), Stern Pinball’s Software Engineer and top-ranked competitive pinball player Tim Sexton, and well-known pinball personality and ambassador, Imoto Arcade, will host, commentate, and interact with eight players as they battle their way through a single elimination bracket until there’s only one left standing as the ultimate Stern Heads-Up Pinball Invitational Champion! This event broadcast can be watched afterwards on Marvel’s official Instagram page (instagram.com/marvel/).

“Collaborating with Marvel, this Avengers: Infinity Quest pinball tournament is the pinball esport event of the year. Spectators will be entertained with intense pinball competition featuring some of the world’s best pinball players battling for a brand-new game,” said Gary Stern, Chairman and CEO of Stern Pinball, Inc.

The Avengers: Infinity Quest Stern Heads-Up Pinball Invitational is sponsored by Marvel, Funko, Diamond Select Toys, Sideshow Collectibles, Arcade1Up, Mondo, and Stern Pinball. The winner of this competition will receive a brand-new Avengers: Infinity Quest pinball machine!

About Stern Pinball, Inc.

Stern Pinball, Inc. is a global lifestyle brand based on the iconic and outrageously fun modern American game of pinball. Headquartered minutes from Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport in the heart of North America, the company creates, designs, engineers, manufactures, markets, and distributes a full line of technologically advanced terrestrial and digital pinball games, parts, accessories, and merchandise. Stern Pinball serves digital, consumer, commercial, and corporate markets around the globe.

Recent Stern Pinball titles include Led Zeppelin, Avengers: Infinity Quest, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Stranger Things, Elvira’s House of Horrors, Jurassic Park, Black Knight: Sword of Rage, The Munsters, The Beatles, Deadpool, Iron Maiden, Guardians of the Galaxy, Star Wars, Aerosmith, Ghostbusters, KISS, Metallica, Game of Thrones, The Walking Dead, Star Trek, AC/DC, Batman, and Spider-Man. A broad range of players enjoy Stern Pinball’s games from professional pinball players who compete in high-stakes competitions around the globe to novice players who are discovering the allure of the silver ball for the first time. To join the fun and learn more, please visit www.sternpinball.com.

5th March 2021

STERN PINBALL ENHANCES PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT STUDIO

STERN PINBALL ENHANCES PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT STUDIO https://gadvending.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/stern-auth-dealer-ii.png 300 268 GAD Vending GAD Vending https://gadvending.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/stern-auth-dealer-ii.png 5th March 2021 5th March 2021

CHICAGO, IL – March 5, 2021 – Stern Pinball, Inc. is pleased to announce the appointment of Mark Penacho as Senior Systems Engineer. Mark brings diverse and expert level software engineering experience in systems, video, and pinball games to Stern Pinball.

Mark’s early portfolio of games includes hit pinball titles such as Earthshaker, Elvira and the Party Monsters, Hurricane, and Fish Tales. He went on to program the video game NHL Open Ice and throughout his tenure at Williams Electronics he made significant contributions to system software, tools and display technology. He was co-founder and lead programmer at Studio Gigante, where he gained valuable experience in Xbox console game development. Over the course of the last 11 years, Mark has worked on the design of software and technology for high speed trading systems.

“Mark is an incredibly talented software engineer with strong leadership skills. His expertise with network programming, low latency design, and connectivity will fit in very well with our current development endeavors. We are very excited to add his talents to our studio as we grow and continue to produce the most fun and revolutionary pinball machines in the world,” said George Gomez, EVP and Chief Creative Officer.

About Stern Pinball, Inc.

11th February 2021

CES 2021 Highlights: 79 Gadgets and Glimpses Into the Future

CES 2021 Highlights: 79 Gadgets and Glimpses Into the Future https://gadvending.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/zep-knocked-1.jpg 547 899 GAD Vending GAD Vending https://gadvending.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/zep-knocked-1.jpg 11th February 2021 8th February 2021

[Wired.com] WELCOME TO OUR CES 2021 liveblog archive! The WIRED crew wasn’t in Las Vegas this year; the show was moved online due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. But even a global health emergency can’t stop the march of consumer technology. There were still plenty of gadgets, apps, electric vehicles, smart-home appliances, brain-training headsets, and sex tech to tell you about. These are all our musings from our team during the show, including photos, written dispatches, trends, and, of course, more than a few lulz.

Stern Pinball Shows Led Zeppelin a Whole Lotta Love

The last of the great pinball manufacturers, Stern makes machines with modern themes like last year’s Stranger Things and old-school classics like that campy Batman show. But the company’s real forte is music machines. Whether it’s the Beatles or Iron Maiden, each machine is chock-full of meticulous details that’ll make any fan swoon.

Stern’s latest entry is a triple threat of Led Zeppelin nostalgia. There are three editions, each complete with real concert clips and all the glamor and bombastic lighting of a live show. Rock along to classics like “Immigrant Song” and “Kashmir” as you roll through replicas of the band’s iconography, including a prominent winged Icarus logo and the legendary Zeppelin itself.

—Boone Ashworth

22nd January 2021

Home Gameroom

COVID Breakroom 2021

COVID Breakroom 2021 https://gadvending.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/2020-11-24_9-41-25.jpg 802 645 GAD Vending GAD Vending https://gadvending.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/2020-11-24_9-41-25.jpg 22nd January 2021 22nd January 2021

Work from home will continue for awhile – and maybe be the norm for many. When working from home, positive breaks are essential.

Why not add a pinball game, digital darts and Golden Tee to your 2021 Breakroom?

According to Good Housekeeping:

How often do you get up from your desk at work, or even just change your seated position?

For most of us, the answer is shockingly low, which is worrying given that sitting still for long periods of time has been linked to being overweight, type 2 diabetes, some forms of cancer and premature death.

What’s more, according to the NHS, prolonged sitting is thought to slow the metabolism, which affects the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar, blood pressure and break down fat. Not good news…

According to osteopath Xerxes Dalal, who has worked in the City since 2002, many people also get back pain from sitting at desks all day. ‘I’ve seen so many office workers who have bad backs as a result of stress, long hours and excessive sitting’ he says.

‘Several studies have shown that ideally, you should change position 40 times per day at work’ he continues. ‘So if you have a sedentary job, get up and walk around as often as possible, and change position at your desk.

‘If you have a standing job, moving frequently and even sitting occasionally (with good posture) is advisable’ he adds.

Moving 40 times a day sounds like a lot, but if you stand up for phone calls, move away from your desk for meetings, make plenty of tea and of course go out for a walk at lunch time, it’s certainly achievable.

Other recommendations for office workers include choosing a standing desk (options such as Varidesk allow you to sit or stand) and, if you have pain on your dominant side, swapping your mouse over to the other hand – you’ll be surprised how quickly you get used to it!

19th January 2021

Pinball

Stern Code Updates

Stern Code Updates https://gadvending.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Holiday-Code-2020-2-1024x925-1.jpg 1024 925 GAD Vending GAD Vending https://gadvending.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Holiday-Code-2020-2-1024x925-1.jpg 19th January 2021 11th January 2021

This Code-mas Holiday season Stern Pinball posted new code for the following SEVEN games!!! Make sure you are up to date with the latest and Happy Holidays!

Avengers: Infinity Quest – For all Avengers owners, please make sure you are up to date with the most current code version (v0.95.0). Be on the lookout for a new code update later this month.
Stranger Things – For all Stranger Things owners, please make sure you have updated your game to the most current code version (v1.01.0). This code contains numerous game enhancements including a brand new Final Showdown Challenge mini-game, additional polish, adjustments, system updates and bug fixes.
TMNT – For all TMNT owners, please make sure you are up to date with the most current code version (v1.41.0). This code update includes numerous game enhancements including a new Half Shell Challenge mini-game, additional polish, game adjustments, system updates and bug fixes!
Iron Maiden – For all Iron Maiden owners, please make sure you are up to date with the most current code version (v1.08.0). This code update includes numerous game enhancements, additional polish, game adjustments, bug fixes, system updates and the DJ Mixer feature!
Star Wars – For all Star Wars owners, please make sure you are up to date with the most current code version (v1.10.0). This code update includes numerous game enhancements, additional polish, game adjustments, bug fixes, system updates and the DJ Mixer feature!
Pabst Can Crusher – For all Pabst Can Crusher owners, please make sure you are up to date with the most current code version (v1.02.0) now including the DJ Mixer feature!
Primus – For all Primus owners, please make sure you are up to date with the most current code version (v1.04.0) now including the DJ Mixer feature!

14th January 2021

CNET Stern Pinball showcases new games at CES 2021

CNET Stern Pinball showcases new games at CES 2021 https://gadvending.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/2021-01-14_11-58-53.jpg 826 474 GAD Vending GAD Vending https://gadvending.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/2021-01-14_11-58-53.jpg 14th January 2021 14th January 2021

Stern Pinball showcases new games at CES 2021

JANUARY 11, 2021

4th January 2021

What’s the Latest in Stern Pinball? Led Zeppelin

What’s the Latest in Stern Pinball? Led Zeppelin https://gadvending.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/zep-knocked-1.jpg 547 899 GAD Vending GAD Vending https://gadvending.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/zep-knocked-1.jpg 4th January 2021 4th January 2021

Made with a Whole Lotta Love

CHICAGO, IL – Stern Pinball, Inc., a global lifestyle brand based on the iconic and outrageously fun modern American game of pinball, announced today a new line of pinball machines based on the legendary rock band, Led Zeppelin and its music. The Led Zeppelin pinball machines will be available in Pro, Premium, and Limited Edition (LE) models.

Formed in London in 1968, Led Zeppelin consisted of vocalist Robert Plant, guitarist Jimmy Page, bassist and keyboardist John Paul Jones, and drummer John Bonham. Together they became one of the best-selling bands with estimated record sales of 300 million units worldwide. In 1995 Led Zeppelin was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for their innovative and influential impact on the entire music industry.

In this high energy rock and roll pinball concert experience, pinball and music are fused together. Players are transported back to Led Zeppelin’s early days and tour the world from 1968-1980. As if players were members of the band playing its music, their play updates game features at the start of each verse and chorus of ten iconic Led Zeppelin songs:

Good Times Bad Times
Whole Lotta Love
The Song Remains the Same
Rock and Roll
Trampled Under Foot
Ramble On
Kashmir
Immigrant Song
Black Dog
Communication Breakdown

“There is nothing more energizing and fun than bringing pinball and music together,” said Gary Stern, Chairman and CEO of Stern Pinball, Inc. “Partnering with Led Zeppelin, we created a one-of-a-kind pinball experience. It’s our dream goal to create a pinball machine with this iconic rock band.”

The Pro, Premium, and Limited Edition models all feature a custom-molded Hindenburg Zeppelin toy, based on the iconic imagery from the Led Zeppelin I album. When lit, the Zeppelin toy scores speed locks on the player’s musical journey to Zeppelin multiball. A custom Swan Song Records trademark Icarus sculpted leaper toy takes flight when smashed by the chaotic pinball. A 3-bank of drop targets, 3 custom steel ramps, and 3 flippers keep the pinball action rolling.

The Premium and Limited Edition models feature an innovative interactive Electric Magic™ toy. This device is a unique motorized toy which rises from below the playfield to create different magical pinball experiences. An optical spinner charges the Electric Magic magnet, capturing and making balls disappear. The Electric Magic device also converts into a physical pinball bash toy capable of locking a ball or launching a ball around the playfield.

In true rock concert fashion, the Expression Lighting System™ with 96 intelligent RGB LED’s enables full color spectrum control. Positioned in pockets cut into the cabinet sides to provide color themed full playfield illumination, this integrated playfield lighting system is synchronized to custom light shows specifically designed for every song and dynamically responsive to game events.

As an encore, these models have an additional reversing scoop and metal combo ramp, allowing players to keep the hits coming with constant adrenalized pinball action. A back panel mounted illuminated song status board indicates which Led Zeppelin song is in play.

Only 500 Limited Edition games will be made for sale throughout the world. This limited version includes an exclusive Icarus themed full color mirrored backglass, exclusive custom themed cabinet artwork, custom high gloss Paradise Shimmer Blue powder-coated armor, a custom autographed bottom arch, exclusive custom art blades, upgraded audio system, anti-reflection pinball glass, a shaker motor, and a sequentially numbered plaque.

Pricing and Availability:

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price:

MSRP for sales to USA end-users, before any VAT, GST, Sales Tax, Duties, or other taxes.

Pro Model: $US 6,199

Premium Model: $US 7,799

Limited Edition Model: $US 9,199

Led Zeppelin pinball machines and accessories are available through authorized Stern Pinball distributors and dealers around the world.

About Stern Pinball, Inc.

Recent Stern Pinball titles include Avengers: Infinity Quest, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Stranger Things, Elvira’s House of Horrors, Jurassic Park, Black Knight: Sword of Rage, The Munsters, The Beatles, Deadpool, Iron Maiden, Guardians of the Galaxy, Star Wars, Aerosmith, Ghostbusters, KISS, Metallica, Game of Thrones, The Walking Dead, Star Trek, AC/DC, Batman, and Spider-Man. A broad range of players enjoy Stern Pinball’s games from professional pinball players who compete in high-stakes competitions around the globe to novice players who are discovering the allure of the silver ball for the first time. To join the fun and learn more, please visit www.sternpinball.com.

20th December 2020

Stern Pinball Engineering Update

Stern Pinball Engineering Update https://gadvending.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/stern-engineer.jpg 1167 869 GAD Vending GAD Vending https://gadvending.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/stern-engineer.jpg 20th December 2020 15th December 2020

Stern Pinball’s website has been updated with a new item on our support page. You can download the official SPIKE™ System Manual and additional supporting documents here. This comprehensive manual covers a SPIKE™ system overview, in-depth look at the SPIKE™ system and node guide, backbox identification, identifying connectors and parts of the CPU board, interconnect diagrams, navigating the diagnostics menu, updating software instructions, how to create a complete SD card, troubleshooting flowcharts and node board status LED table/node board and bus test.

In addition, Stern engineering staff have added an option for updating code that utilizes the SPIKE system, enabling owners to create SD cards without assistance from dealers, distributors, or technical staff. Learn more about this time-saving option.

If you don’t find what you are looking for, GAD Vending is here to help our customers. Whether you bought a Stern pinball for your commercial establishment or for your home, we have trained staff to help you troubleshoot your pinball – both hardware and software. And, yes, we stock parts.

16th December 2020

LED ZEPPELIN AND STERN PINBALL ANNOUNCE NEW ROCK AND ROLL PINBALL MACHINES

LED ZEPPELIN AND STERN PINBALL ANNOUNCE NEW ROCK AND ROLL PINBALL MACHINES https://gadvending.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/zep.jpg 1639 773 GAD Vending GAD Vending https://gadvending.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/zep.jpg 16th December 2020 16th December 2020

Made with a Whole Lotta Love

CHICAGO, IL – December 15, 2020 –

Stern Pinball, Inc., a global lifestyle brand based on the iconic and outrageously fun modern American game of pinball, announced today a new line of pinball machines based on the legendary rock band, Led Zeppelin and its music. The Led Zeppelin pinball machines will be available in Pro, Premium, and Limited Edition (LE) models.

Good Times Bad Times
Whole Lotta Love
The Song Remains the Same
Rock and Roll
Trampled Under Foot
Ramble On
Kashmir
Immigrant Song
Black Dog
Communication Breakdown

Pricing and Availability:

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price:

MSRP for sales to USA end-users, before any VAT, GST, Sales Tax, Duties, or other taxes.

Pro Model: $US 6,199

Premium Model: $US 7,799

Limited Edition Model: $US 9,199

Led Zeppelin pinball machines and accessories are available through authorized Stern Pinball distributors and dealers around the world.

About Stern Pinball, Inc.

12th December 2020

Elvira’s “Hooray for Santy Claus”

Elvira’s “Hooray for Santy Claus” https://gadvending.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/elvira.jpg 255 217 GAD Vending GAD Vending https://gadvending.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/elvira.jpg 12th December 2020 7th December 2020

Owners of Elvira are in for 25 days of special treats from Santa just in time for the holidays! Make sure your system clock is set to the right date and keep a close ear (or eye!) while playing the Santa Claus Conquers the Martians haunt mode from December 1^st to the 25th!