Do They Still Make Pinball Machines?
Yes! Pinball machines are still being made, and the industry is thriving more than ever! Whether you’re a lifelong player or just discovering the game, you might be surprised to learn that new machines are released regularly by a mix of major manufacturers and boutique studios. These companies combine nostalgic mechanical gameplay with cutting-edge technology, creating some of the most exciting pinball machines we’ve ever seen.
If you’re wondering who makes pinball machines, who makes the best pinball machines, or where pinball machines are made, we’ll break down the most active and innovative current pinball companies.
Stern Pinball
Website: sternpinball.com
Stern is the largest and most established pinball company in the world. Located in Elk Grove Village, Illinois, Stern is known for building machines that shoot smoothly, are highly reliable, and perform well in both home and tournament settings.
Modern Stern machines are at the core of competitive pinball, and their design team reads like an all-star roster: Keith Elwin, John Borg, Jack Danger, and Brian Eddy are behind many of Stern’s recent hits. Standout titles include Godzilla, Foo Fighters, James Bond, and our personal favorite: Jaws.
If you’re asking who makes the best pinball machines today, Stern is our favorite!
Spooky Pinball
Website: spookypinball.com
Based in Wisconsin, Spooky Pinball is a passionate boutique manufacturer with a strong indie spirit. They’re known for excellent theme integration, visually stunning machines, and unique playfield features packed with toys and mechanical tricks.
Their latest title, Evil Dead, showcases everything Spooky does best: immersive storytelling, killer art, and playfield innovation. With small production runs and fan-focused attention, Spooky is gaining major respect in the pinball world.
We don’t currently own any Spooky machines here at Punk Rock Pinball, but we hope to change that soon!
Jersey Jack Pinball
Website: jerseyjackpinball.com
If Stern is the king of consistency, Jersey Jack Pinball (JJP) is the master of luxury. Their machines are high-end showpieces with beautiful playfields, massive LCD screens, brilliant light shows, and incredibly polished animations.
JJP is also boutique, but their games feel monumental in scale. Recent and upcoming themes include Harry Potter, Elton John, and Avatar. Designed by some of the top talent in the business like Eric Meunier, Mark Seiden, and Steve Ritchie, Jersey Jack machines are as deep and beautiful as pinball gets.
Chicago Gaming Company
Website: chicago-gaming.com
Chicago Gaming Company (CGC) is a niche manufacturer with a focus on remaking legendary Bally/Williams machines with modern hardware and enhancements. They’ve faithfully revived classics like Medieval Madness and Attack from Mars, earning major praise from players and collectors.
Their newest machine, Pulp Fiction Pinball, is an original design with a classic ’80s vibe. CGC machines are built to a high standard, though production is often slow. Still, their machines are worth the wait if you’re looking for a machine built to last.
Barrels of Fun
Website: barrelsoffun.com
A fresh face in pinball, Barrels of Fun has made a bold entrance with titles like Labyrinth. Based in Houston, Texas, they focus on creative layouts, modern aesthetics, and theme-forward design. They’re definitely a company to watch. We’re looking forward to what the future brings from these guys.
Dutch Pinball
Website: dutchpinball.com
Hailing from the Netherlands, Dutch Pinball is known for the cult-favorite The Big Lebowski Pinball. Though the company faced early production challenges, they’ve built a reputation for premium design and immersive gameplay.
Pinball Brothers
Website: pinballbrothers.com
Pinball Brothers operates out of Europe and offers machines like Alien and Queen. Their games feature cinematic themes, interactive elements, and deep rule sets that continue to improve with each release.
American Pinball
Website: american-pinball.com
American Pinball, based in Palatine, Illinois, focuses on original, creative machines like Houdini, Oktoberfest, Legends of Valhalla, and Hot Wheels™. Their games are well-built, with rich rulesets and an emphasis on theme originality.
Where Are Pinball Machines Made?
Most pinball machines today are made in the United States, especially around Chicago, Illinois, a historic hub of pinball production. Companies like Stern, Jersey Jack, American Pinball, and Chicago Gaming all manufacture in or near the area.
If you’re specifically asking where are Stern pinball machines made?, the answer is Elk Grove Village, Illinois.
Some companies, like Dutch Pinball and Pinball Brothers, manufacture in Europe but still cater to a global market.
Keep On Flippin’
From giants like Stern to rising stars like Spooky Pinball, today’s pinball companies are keeping the silver ball alive and flipping. Whether you’re a competitive player, casual collector, or just discovering the hobby, there’s never been a better time to explore who makes new pinball machines.
Want to hear how we fell in love with pinball? Check out our Punk Rock Pinball Podcast, where we share our journey from curious newbies to full-fledged pinball evangelists.
For more great content, check out our roundup of the best pinball podcasts and the best pinball news websites to stay connected to the community.
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