Machine Description

The KISS pinball machine, released by Stern Electronics in 2015, stands as one of the most elaborate and successful rock band-themed pinball machines ever produced. This premium game celebrates the legendary rock band KISS, incorporating their iconic imagery, music, and theatrical style into an immersive pinball experience. The machine features all four original KISS members - Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Ace Frehley, and Peter Criss - and includes twelve of their classic songs.

The game's design is a masterwork by legendary pinball designer John Borg, featuring a concert stage-themed playfield with multiple LED-lit ramps, orbits, and custom molded toys including a Gene Simmons head with animated tongue. The premium version includes special features like an exclusive 'Love Gun' toy that rises from the playfield, custom art by zombie artist Jeremy Packer, and a built-in shaker motor that creates physical feedback during gameplay. The color LCD display shows band footage, custom animations, and game progress in vivid detail.

In terms of gameplay, KISS pinball offers deep rule sets with multiple wizard modes, including 'Rock City Escape' and 'Detroit Rock City' multiball. The machine's audio system features actual KISS recordings, with custom callouts from Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley. The game proved so popular that Stern released multiple editions including Pro, Premium, and Limited Edition versions, with the LE version being particularly sought after by collectors.

The KISS pinball machine represents a significant milestone in modern pinball design, successfully bridging classic rock nostalgia with contemporary pinball technology. It has become a coveted piece among both KISS fans and pinball enthusiasts, maintaining strong resale values and frequent tournament play. The machine's success helped cement Stern's position as the leading manufacturer of modern pinball machines and demonstrated the continuing viability of rock band-themed games in the digital era.