If you’re looking for a pinball machine for sale and love the golden age of Bally/Williams, you’ve probably come across the Monster Bash Remake and Attack From Mars (AFM) Remake.
Both are modern remakes of legendary 90s titles—completely rebuilt with upgraded electronics, LED displays, and improved reliability—while staying true to the original gameplay.
But which one is the better investment for your home arcade or collection?
At House of Pinball, we’ve sold and serviced both titles extensively. In this expert comparison, we’ll break down gameplay, features, price, collector appeal, and long-term value to help you decide which remake is right for you.
🔄 Why Remakes Are a Smart Buy
Chicago Gaming Company (CGC) has done a phenomenal job reimagining Bally/Williams classics, giving players the chance to enjoy legendary games with modern hardware, improved durability, and enhanced visuals.
Buying a remake means:
- 🔧 Less maintenance
- 💡 Modern RGB lighting & HD displays
- 🔊 Upgraded sound systems
- ✅ Same original gameplay with added polish
✅ Ideal for new buyers who want nostalgia + reliability, or collectors looking for showroom-quality machines.
🎸 Monster Bash Remake: Rock Out with the Universal Monsters
Originally released in 1998, Monster Bash is a fan-favorite for its humorous theme, killer soundtrack, and balanced gameplay.
🎮 Gameplay:
You’re assembling the Monster Band—Frankenstein, Dracula, the Mummy, Wolfman, Bride of Frankenstein, and Creature from the Black Lagoon. Each monster has its own mode, and once they’re all united, you unlock the epic Monsters of Rock wizard mode.
💡 Remake Features:
- Fully upgraded RGB lighting
- Crisp 21.5” HD Color LCD
- Available in Classic, Special, and LE editions
- Optional topper, side mirrors, shaker motor
👍 Why We Recommend It:
- Great for family play and parties
- Hilarious animations and music
- Satisfying flow with fun shot variety
- One of the most collectible themes in pinball
✅ Best for: Players who want light-hearted fun, great audio-visuals, and high replay value.
👽 AFM Remake (Attack From Mars): Classic Alien-Invasion Chaos
Originally released in 1995 and designed by Brian Eddy, AFM is a fast, furious, and hilarious alien invasion story that delivers nonstop action.
🎮 Gameplay:
Your goal? Defend Earth by destroying flying saucers, completing shots across major cities, and eventually reaching Rule the Universe—one of the most satisfying wizard modes ever made.
💡 Remake Features:
- Color HD LCD replacing the DMD
- Enhanced light shows and interactive RGB LEDs
- Custom topper and shaker options
- Available in Classic, Special, and LE versions
👍 Why We Recommend It:
- One of the most flowing and intuitive layouts ever made
- Highly replayable, even for competitive players
- Combines humor, adrenaline, and quick gameplay
✅ Best for: Competitive players, fans of fast gameplay, and those who want a true pinball adrenaline rush.
⚖️ Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Monster Bash Remake | AFM Remake |
|---|---|---|
| Original Release | 1998 | 1995 |
| Remake by | Chicago Gaming Company | Chicago Gaming Company |
| Theme | Universal Monsters | Alien Invasion |
| Primary Appeal | Humor, characters, music | Fast flow, humor, adrenaline |
| Gameplay Depth | Medium | Medium-High |
| Collector Demand | High | Very High |
| Remake Editions | Classic, SE, LE | Classic, SE, LE |
| Price Range (2025) | $8,000–$10,500+ | $8,000–$11,000+ |
| Beginner Friendly | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
💰 Resale Value & Investment Potential
Both machines retain value extremely well, especially the LE editions, which are limited and come with upgraded features.
Monster Bash Remake:
- Strong demand due to theme and rarity of originals
- Often sold out in LE form
- Steady appreciation over time
AFM Remake:
- Considered a “Top 5 of All Time” game by collectors
- Stronger tournament appeal
- Higher resale value, especially LE
🧠 Expert Insight: If you want a fun party machine, go with Monster Bash. If you want competitive value and resale power, AFM Remake edges ahead.
🛠️ Maintenance & Reliability
Both remakes are powered by modern boards, making them significantly more reliable than the originals. That means:
- ✅ Plug-and-play setup
- ✅ Minimal upkeep
- ✅ Better diagnostics
- ✅ Easier parts replacement
At House of Pinball, all machines are tested, updated, and delivered ready to play—no hassle, no guesswork.
🧭 So, Which One Should You Buy?
🎸 Buy Monster Bash Remake If:
- You love classic monsters and humor
- You want a game that’s easy to enjoy with friends or family
- You’re looking for a beautiful, collector-grade machine
👽 Buy AFM Remake If:
- You want fast, aggressive gameplay
- You’re a competitive or experienced player
- You want something with slightly higher investment value
🛒 Where to Buy Your Remake Pinball Machine
At House of Pinball, we stock both Monster Bash and AFM Remake machines in various editions. All machines include:
- 🧰 Full inspection and professional setup
- 🛡️ Limited warranty + lifetime support
- 🚚 Nationwide delivery and white-glove installation
- 💬 Expert buying guidance from passionate pinball pros