Stern Pinball dominates expo floor with Fallout release and 90% market share

Pinball Expo 2026 convened in Schaumburg, Illinois, this October, showcasing a revitalized industry where Stern Pinball continues to dominate sales. Hundreds of attendees gathered for the annual event, which highlights both major commercial releases and independent hobbyist innovations in the silver-ball sector.

Stern Pinball recently released a new machine based on the Fallout franchise, which was displayed prominently at the convention. The company maintains its market leadership through a steady stream of licensed titles, including Jaws and other popular properties. According to Ars Technica, the expo floor featured machines from competitors like Jersey Jack, Barrels of Fun, and Spooky Pinball.

Industry Context and Market Share

The pinball industry has experienced a significant resurgence in recent years, moving away from its previous decline. Gary Stern, the company’s leader, provided background on the firm’s forty-year history during a tour of its Elk Grove, Illinois headquarters. He greeted visitors in the lobby, which featured dozens of machines lining the walls before the group proceeded to the factory floor.

George Gomez, a Stern employee and game designer, briefed the tour group on factory operations and market dynamics. Gomez stated that Stern controls ninety percent of the current pinball market at any given time. He noted that all other manufacturers in the industry split the remaining ten percent of sales among themselves.

Competitors and Hobbyist Growth

While Stern dominates commercial sales, the remaining market share shows significant activity from smaller manufacturers and independent creators. Ars Technica reported that the expo floor displayed interesting developments from the minority of the market. This includes modular home setups and open development kits that allow enthusiasts to attempt game design themselves.

The event attracted attendees who have followed the show for multiple years, noting an increase in new companies entering the fold each year. Despite advances in home entertainment over the last twenty-five years, the tactile experience of launching a metal ball in a wooden cabinet remains unique. The combination of major releases and hobbyist projects suggests a diverse and active community.

What should you do?

Attendees and industry observers should monitor the expo floor for new license announcements and independent developer tools. Manufacturers may want to track the growth of open development kits as a potential avenue for community-driven innovation. Fans can visit the convention center in Chicagoland to see the latest machines from Stern and its competitors.

What to do and how to stay safe: Stern Pinball

• Check for new license announcements from major manufacturers like Stern Pinball at industry events.
• Explore open development kits if you are interested in designing your own pinball games.
• Visit the Pinball Expo in Schaumburg, Illinois, to see the latest machines from various vendors.
• Monitor the growth of hobbyist projects in the remaining ten percent of the market.

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Frequently asked questions

Who controls the majority of the pinball market?

Stern Pinball controls ninety percent of the current pinball market, according to designer George Gomez.

Where did Pinball Expo 2026 take place?

The event was held in Schaumburg, Illinois, with a preceding tour at Stern’s headquarters in Elk Grove.

What new Stern machine was featured at the expo?

Stern’s latest offering, a machine based on the Fallout franchise, was displayed near the convention entrance.