Convention - SDCC 2024 : Stern Pinball Stuns with the John Wick Pinball Machine Debut at San Diego Comic-Con

By Mulder, San Diego, Convention Center et Marriott Marquis, 25 july 2024

San Diego Comic-Con 2024 was nothing short of electrifying as Stern Pinball, in collaboration with Lionsgate, unleashed the highly anticipated John Wick pinball machine at their official booth (#3721) and pop-up arcade at the Marriott Marquis. This groundbreaking release quickly became one of the most talked-about attractions at the convention, drawing in hordes of fans eager to immerse themselves in the intense world of John Wick.

Stern Pinball has a long history of bringing beloved film franchises to life through their innovative pinball machines, and the John Wick release is no exception. This machine, which comes in three editions—Pro, Premium, and Limited—offers players a chance to step into the shoes of the infamous assassin himself. From the moment players launch the first ball, they are thrust into a high-stakes, fast-paced environment that mirrors the relentless action of the John Wick films.

The machine’s playfield is a masterpiece of design, meticulously crafted to capture the essence of the John Wick universe. The playfield features iconic locations from the films, such as the New York Continental Hotel and the Red Circle Club, which are rendered in stunning detail with dynamic edge-lit artwork that brings the gritty, neon-soaked world of John Wick to life. As players progress through the game, they will engage in high-speed car chases, intense shootouts, and intricate missions that echo the narrative structure of the movies. The centerpiece of this experience is Stern’s all-new dynamic AI combat system, which adds a layer of complexity and realism to the gameplay, making each session unique and challenging​.

One of the standout features of the John Wick pinball machine is the Limited Edition model, which offers collectors and hardcore fans a truly immersive experience. This edition comes with several exclusive features, including a swatch of John Wick’s suit embedded in the bottom apron, taken from the production wardrobe of one of the films. The Limited Edition also includes Stern’s innovative Expression lighting system, a feature previously available only as an upgrade in other models, now integrated directly into the game. This system, with its embedded RGB LEDs, provides an ambient light show that syncs with the gameplay, creating a fully immersive environment​.

The Limited Edition model also boasts an array of intricate mechanical features that elevate the gameplay experience. One such feature is the Blood Oath Marker, a key element from the John Wick narrative, which has been meticulously recreated as an interactive component on the playfield. When activated, the center of the Blood Oath Marker swings open, revealing fingerprint inserts—a nod to the film’s intense focus on loyalty and betrayal. The game also includes a series of stainless steel ramps, like the Akira and Katia ramps, which guide the ball through a series of challenges, each ramp named after key elements from the films. The Continental Hotel, another iconic location, is represented as a model on the playfield, complete with a muscle car bash toy that blocks shots, adding a strategic element to the gameplay​.

At SDCC, Stern Pinball's booth was a hotspot, not just for playing the new machine but also for fans to delve deeper into the John Wick universe. The booth featured official movie props, giving fans a rare chance to see items used in the actual films. The excitement was palpable as fans lined up to get their hands on exclusive John Wick merchandise, including limited-edition T-shirts and a special LP album featuring the game’s original score. The album, signed by Charlie Benante of Anthrax and Pantera fame, was a must-have for collectors, with only 500 copies available onsite​.

Beyond the convention floor, Stern’s pop-up arcade at the Marriott Marquis was a haven for pinball enthusiasts. The arcade, which did not require a Comic-Con badge for entry, was open throughout the event, offering fans a chance to experience not only the John Wick machine but also other classic Stern titles. The arcade’s relaxed atmosphere provided a perfect contrast to the bustling convention, allowing fans to fully immerse themselves in the gaming experience without the pressure of the convention’s crowds.

Stern Pinball’s President and CEO, Seth Davis, expressed his excitement about the partnership with Lionsgate, noting that the John Wick pinball machine represents a new pinnacle in Stern’s lineup of film-based games. He highlighted the game’s ability to capture the adrenaline and style of the John Wick films, offering fans a new way to engage with the franchise. The collaboration with Lionsgate, a studio known for its bold and innovative approach to content, was seen as a natural fit for Stern, a company that has consistently pushed the boundaries of what pinball machines can offer.

The John Wick pinball machine is now available through authorized Stern Pinball distributors and dealers worldwide, ensuring that fans everywhere can bring a piece of the John Wick universe into their homes. As Stern Pinball continues to innovate and expand its portfolio, the John Wick machine stands out as a testament to the company’s dedication to creating high-quality, immersive gaming experiences that resonate with both casual players and dedicated fans alike​.

For those who missed out on SDCC 2024, Stern Pinball’s website offers a glimpse into the world of John Wick pinball, with detailed information on each edition, gameplay features, and where to purchase the machine. As the buzz from Comic-Con continues to reverberate, it’s clear that Stern Pinball’s latest creation has left an indelible mark on fans and the pinball community alike.

You can discover our photos in our Flickr page

Photos and video  : Boris Colletier / Mulderville