The Amazing Spiderman

The Amazing Spider-Man pinball machine, released by Stern Electronics in 2012, was strategically timed to coincide with Sony's theatrical reboot of the Spider-Man franchise starring Andrew Garfield. This machine represents a significant entry in Stern's lineup of Marvel-licensed properties and showcases the evolution of modern pinball design.

Designed by Steve Ritchie, known as 'The Master of Flow' in pinball circles, the game features a dynamic playfield with multiple ramps, orbits, and web-shooting mechanisms. The prominent features include a mechanical Green Goblin target that moves across the playfield, specialized 'web-shooting' mechanics, and various villain-themed targets and modes. The game's rules are structured around Spider-Man's battles with classic villains including the Lizard, Mysterio, and the Green Goblin.

Technologically, the machine incorporates Stern's modern color LCD display system, which presents dynamic animations and game information while maintaining traditional pinball gameplay elements. The artwork, created by Margaret Fogarty, captures the comic book aesthetic while incorporating elements from the contemporary film franchise. Multiple editions were produced including Pro, Limited Edition, and Premium models, each with varying features and collectibility value.

The Amazing Spider-Man pinball machine has become a popular addition to both public arcade locations and private collections, praised for its accessibility to casual players while offering depth for tournament play. It represents a successful merger of classic pinball mechanics with modern technology and contemporary pop culture, helping to maintain pinball's relevance in the digital age.