For pinball enthusiasts, few debates are as spirited as the one between original classic machines and their modern remakes. Is the soul of the original Williams Medieval Madness better than the technical precision of the Chicago Gaming remake? Should you invest in a vintage Bally Attack from Mars or its contemporary reproduction?
This isn’t just a matter of nostalgia; it’s a critical decision that affects gameplay, investment, maintenance, and overall satisfaction. At House Of Pinball, we’ve sold, serviced, and played both extensively. Our goal in this guide is to cut through the hype with transparent, expert comparison to help you decide which type of pinball machine for sale is the right investment for you.
Why Are We Seeing so Many Remakes?
The simple answer: demand. Iconic games from the 1990s pinball golden age are highly sought-after, but original units are finite. Low production numbers, coupled with decades of wear and tear, have made pristine originals incredibly rare and expensive. Companies like Chicago Gaming Company (CGC) and Pinball Brothers have stepped in to meet this demand by officially licensing and reproducing these classics, often with modern enhancements.
The Head-to-Head Comparison
Let’s break down the key factors you should consider when choosing between an original and a remake.
1. Authenticity & “Soul”
- Original (Then): This is the main argument for the original. It’s the actual machine that rolled off the line in the 1990s. It has history. For purists, the original cabinet, the slightly faded art, and even the minor design quirks contribute to its irreplaceable character and soul. Owning one is like owning a classic car with a known provenance.
- Remake (Now): While expertly reproduced, a remake is a replica. It lacks the historical narrative of a machine that spent years on location. However, for many, the “soul” is in the gameplay, which remakes faithfully recreate—and often improve upon.
Verdict: If historical authenticity is your top priority, an original is your only choice. If you care most about the play experience, this becomes less of a factor.
2. Condition & Playfield Wear
- Original (Then): Unless it was HUO (Home Use Only), a 25+ year-old machine has wear. This can range from minor playfield swirls to major wear around inserts and pop-outs, requiring costly professional restoration. The cabinet may have nicks, scratches, or fading.
- Remake (Now): You are effectively getting a new-in-box machine. The playfield is pristine, the cabinet art is vibrant and perfect, and all parts are new. There is zero playfield wear, offering a flawless surface for gameplay.
Verdict: The remake wins unequivocally on condition. It provides a like-new experience without the need for immediate restoration.
3. Technology & Reliability
- Original (Then): Original machines use 30-year-old electronics. This means aging connectors, capacitors that can leak, and original displays (DMDs) that can fail. While generally repairable, they require a owner who is comfortable with maintenance or has a good technician on speed dial.
- Remake (Now): Remakes feature modernized electronics. This includes updated circuit boards with superior components, more reliable power driver boards, and often brighter, more reliable LED displays. They are built to modern reliability standards, meaning fewer headaches and repairs, especially in the first several years of ownership.
Verdict: The remake offers significantly better modern reliability and is the clear choice for those who want to play more and repair less.
4. Gameplay & Enhancements
- Original (Then): The gameplay is the classic, authentic experience. This is exactly how the game played in the arcade. For many, this is the definitive version.
- Remake (Now): Here’s where it gets interesting. Remakes often include player-requested enhancements that improve the experience. For example:
- CGC’s Medieval Madness Remake includes a high-quality color display, a upgraded troll hammer mechanism, and a more reliable castle lock.
- CGC’s Attack from Mars Remake features a full-color LCD, new “super jets,” and enhanced sound.
- These aren’t changes to the core ruleset but quality-of-life and visual upgrades.
Verdict: It’s a tie. If you want pure nostalgia, the original is perfect. If you appreciate modern upgrades that honor the original design, the remake has the edge.
5. Cost & Investment Value
- Original (Then): Pricing for a nice, player-grade original can range from $10,000 to $15,000+. A truly pristine, collector-grade original can command $20,000+. The value of top-tier originals has remained strong and stable.
- Remake (Now): A new remake typically has a base price similar to a new modern pinball machine, often starting around $7,000 – $9,000 and going up for special editions. They depreciate initially like a new car but are expected to hold value well long-term due to their licensed, limited-run nature.
Verdict: The remake often provides a better initial value proposition, giving you a pristine machine for the price of a worn original. However, ultra-rare, top-condition originals may have higher long-term investment potential.
Side-by-Side: Original vs. Remake Summary Table
| Feature | Original Machine | Remake Machine | Winner for… |
|---|---|---|---|
| Authenticity | High – The real deal | Lower – A faithful replica | The Purist |
| Condition | Variable (often worn) | Perfect (new) | The Perfectionist |
| Reliability | Lower (30-year-old parts) | Higher (modern parts) | The Player |
| Gameplay | Classic & Pure | Classic + Modern Enhancements | The Modernist |
| Initial Cost | High for good condition | High, but fixed MSRP | The Budget-Conscious |
| Maintenance | Higher, requires expertise | Lower, more reliable | The Casual Owner |
So, Which One Should You Buy? A Guided Decision
Your perfect pinball machine for sale depends on your personality and goals as a collector.
You Should Buy an ORIGINAL Machine If:
- You are a purist who values historical authenticity above all else.
- You enjoy tinkering and restoring machines as much as playing them.
- Your goal is a long-term investment in a rare, original artifact.
- You have a larger budget for acquisition and potential restoration.
You Should Buy a REMAKE Machine If:
- You want a pristine, like-new playing experience without wear.
- You prefer modern reliability and want to minimize repairs.
- You appreciate quality-of-life enhancements like color displays.
- You want a more predictable purchase at a known price point for a flawless game.
The House Of Pinball Commitment to Clarity
We believe an educated customer is our best customer. We don’t just want to sell you a game; we want to match you with the right one. Whether you choose an original or a remake, every machine we offer comes with:
- Full Transparency: Detailed photos, videos, and a complete condition report.
- Expert Insight: We’ll explain the pros and cons of each specific machine we have in stock.
- Service Support: We stand behind our sales with service plans and support.
Find Your Perfect Pinball Machine For Sale
Ready to explore your options? View our current inventory, featuring both exceptional original classics and brand-new remakes.
- Browse Our Original Classic Pinball Machines
- Browse Our New & Remake Pinball Machines
Still not sure? That’s why we’re here. Contact our pinball experts today for a personalized consultation.