Here’s what to know before, during, and after you order!

Whether you fell in love with pinball as a kid or are just getting acquainted, pinball is making a resurgence in a big way. And it’s no wonder why. In a world where everything is digital, pinball is an analog throwback to a simpler time. Yet even so, technology has brought many awesome new features to pinball. Now that you’ve decided it’s time to buy a pinball of your own, and save on all those quarters, here are the top things to consider in the pinball buying process:

Picking the Perfect Machine

There are tons of great pinball machines out there, new and used. You’ll want to make sure the features and theme are going to keep you coming back time and time again. There are many themes available from classic muscle cars to super heroes, and rock bands to horror movie icons, and everything in between. In this phase of the buying process, you’re going to want to find and experience a game firsthand and try as many as you can. There may be a theme you love, but the game play isn’t desirable and vice-versa- so don’t write off any game too soon. Keep in mind that some games have adult themes and probably aren’t suitable for all locations (such as South Park and Playboy).

Explore Features

If you’re looking for a newer game, there may be different models of the same game, usually referred to as Pro, Premium, Limited Edition (LE). For newer pinballs, there is a features matrix showing the differences between models. The more features, the more expensive the game is, with the LE costing the most and having exclusive, collectible features. To make this part of the search easier, on the Game Room Guys website the features matrix is displayed with each listing.

Customize with Accessories

Many games have accessories that allow you to truly customize your pinball experience. These include side armor, backbox toppers, shooter knobs, and playfield enhancements. In addition to these ‘official’ themed accessories, you can also get beverage holders, colored leg protectors, flipper button protectors, and more! Perhaps the most common accessory, a shaker motor enhances game play by shaking the machine when certain targets are triggered. Unlike many other sellers, if you order a pinball with a shaker motor directly from Game Room Guys, it will come pre-installed and ready to play.

Order

Game Room Guys makes the ordering process as easy as ordering a pizza. You can order your machine directly from our website, in store, or over the phone. No matter what, we’re here to answer your questions throughout the entire process!

Delivery

At this stage of the buying process, you’ve picked your perfect pinball, making sure to look at the different models. Now it’s time to get it delivered. When ordering from Game Room Guys, curbside delivery is ALWAYS free. If the machine is in stock you may also have the opportunity to select from expedited shipping options. After you place your order, a Game Room Guys team member will both call and email you to verify your delivery choice and review our shipping procedure. What if you don’t just want your newest addition to be dropped off in front of your garage? We’ve got you covered. Every pinball order has optional ‘White Glove’ service. This service, at an additional cost, will get your new machine delivered in to the room of your choice and have it set up so you don’t have to worry about a thing! Easy as that.

Setup

If you don’t choose to have your game set up for you, here’s what you need to know. Your game will come with backbox folded down and the legs removed. When you pull it out, there will be easy to follow setup instructions.

Maintenance

Now that you’ve picked out the perfect pinball, had it delivered, and set it up, how do you keep it running in tip-top shape? Just like you have to change the oil in your car every 3,000 miles or 3 months, your pinball machine playfield needs to be waxed every 1,500 plays or every 6 months, whichever comes first- we recommend Millwax. Keep your machine away from dusty environments as it can gum up the works, causing mechanicals issues. Lastly, monitor the rubber rings in your game for any sign of wear, including cracks and drying out. If you do see any of these signs, it’s time to order a new rubber ring kit. Forgetting to wax your playfield or replace rubber rings can cause debris to build up on your playfield, resulting in damage.

Support

A pinball machine has a lot of parts (around 3,500!) so there’s a chance something could go wrong. Making sure you have the support you need when issues arise will greatly reduce your stress, frustration and out of pocket expenses. When you buy from Game Room Guys, you get FREE technical support over the phone for as long as you own your game. Our team of technicians have an industry leading 40+ years of combined experience and an unmatched passion for gaming. A pinball machine is a big investment, so making sure you have the proper support, when you need it, is a big deal. Game Room Guys and Pinball- it’s like a match made in Gaming heaven!

So there you have it. Everything you need to know before, during, and after you purchase a pinball machine. No matter where you are in the process, Game Room Guys is here to make sure your experience is a breeze.