Machine Description

Stern's 'Transformers' pinball machine, released in 2011, represents a significant collaboration between the pinball industry and one of entertainment's most valuable franchises. Based primarily on Michael Bay's live-action Transformers films, the machine captured the essence of the eternal battle between Autobots and Decepticons while delivering a sophisticated modern pinball experience.

Designed by George Gomez with art by Dirty Donny Gillies, the machine features an impressive array of mechanical toys and gameplay elements. The centerpiece is a rotating mechanical Optimus Prime figure that transforms from truck to robot form. Multiple ramps, orbits, and target sets create an intricate playfield layout that emphasizes both precision shooting and strategic mode progression. The game includes voice clips from Peter Cullen (the original Optimus Prime) and features music from the film franchise.

The machine was released in three variants: Pro, Limited Edition, and Premium, each offering different levels of features and complexity. The Premium and Limited Edition versions included additional mechanical elements such as an animated Megatron figure and enhanced decoration. All versions featured Stern's standard DMD display technology, which was used to show objectives, scores, and animated sequences from the Transformers universe.

This title helped cement Stern's position as the leading manufacturer of modern pinball machines during a crucial period for the industry. The game's success demonstrated that licensed themes, when properly executed, could create compelling pinball experiences that appeal to both casual players and serious enthusiasts. Today, Transformers remains a sought-after machine among collectors and is considered one of Stern's stronger licensed titles from the early 2010s.