This week on Modern Man in Search of High Scores, we’re putting two brand-new 2026 pinball machines into the ring: Jersey Jack’s Sonic the Hedgehog versus Stern’s Transformers: More Than Meets the Eye. It might be completely insane to compare these two machines so soon after launch, but that’s exactly what we’re here to do. Speed, flow, ramps, targets, toys, rules, and all the glorious chaos of modern pinball — which one comes out on top?

Plus, Lawrence Adams and Dean Roblee dive into the latest arcade and pinball news and recap their trip to California Extreme, one of the biggest celebrations of classic arcade and pinball culture.

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This week on Modern Man in Search of High Scores, Lawrence and Dean go head-to-head with two of Stern Pinball's biggest licensed titles: Jurassic Park vs. The Walking Dead. Dinosaurs or zombies? We'll break down the rules, shots, toys, music, callouts, and overall gameplay, and present the most important awards in pinball, before deciding which machine comes out on top.

Plus, arcade and pinball news, including Barrels of Fun's new Bon Jovi pinball machine, the latest from Stern and the hime arcade world, and upcoming pinball and arcade events.

So hop in your Jeep, load your crossbow, and join Lawrence and Dean for another round of Modern Man in Search of High Scores!

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In this episode, Lawrence and Dean take on one of their toughest pinball matchups yet, pitting Stern's Ghostbusters (2016) against Chicago Gaming Company's Pulp Fiction (2023). One machine captures the magic of childhood, the other channels the cool factor of cult cinema—but which one ultimately comes out on top? The hosts compare theme integration, gameplay philosophy, artwork, sound, challenge, and staying power while sharing stories about what makes both games modern classics.

Before the showdown, they cover the latest in arcade and pinball news, including the newly announced Arcade1Up Sonic cabinet, rumors surrounding upcoming pinball releases, and impressions from the grand opening of Clever Unicorn Pinball Arcade, a new destination that's helping keep Santa Cruz's pinball scene thriving.

Whether you're a fan of ghosts, gangsters, or just great pinball conversation, this episode delivers plenty of laughs, nostalgia, and spirited debate—without making the winner an easy call.

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For decades, fans have argued over which Brian Eddy masterpiece deserves the crown. Is it the frantic alien invasion of Attack from Mars or the fantasy adventure and castle-crushing chaos of Medieval Madness? Lawrence and Dean break down the gameplay, rules, callouts, flow, humor, artwork, replayability, and lasting legacy of both machines to see which one truly earns the GC.

We'll also catch you up on the latest arcade and pinball news, including recent industry announcements, new game releases, and happenings from around the hobby.

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Welcome back to Modern Man in Search of High Scores, and this week our goal is blood! World Cup Soccer is up against Bram Stoker's Dracula in a showdown that's sure to break some hearts.

Lawrence Adams and Dean Robley kick things off with the week's arcade and pinball news: Iconic Arcade's Double Dragon cabinet mockup, the now-confirmed Sonic the Hedgehog by Jersey Jack (with Steve Ritchie at the helm), Pedretti officially announces Tales of the Arabian Nights remaster, and word that Stern's John Wick code update is finally winning fans back after a rocky launch.

Then it's the main event: a head-to-head showdown between two of the hosts' personal favorites, Bram Stoker's Dracula and World Cup Soccer (1994). The guys break down both machines layout, design pedigree, and theme integration, from Dracula's punishing multi-multiball stacking and blood-red DMD to World Cup Soccer's buttery flow, asymmetric flippers, and city-to-city narrative arc. Who will win which awards, and who walks away with the title of GC? Tune in to find out!

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Modern Man in Search of High Scores is back — and Season 2 is coming in hot. Lawrence Adams and Dean Roblee return with a brand new format that's about to change the way you think about classic machines. This isn't just a podcast anymore. It's a showdown.

Kicking off the season, Lawrence and Dean debut the head-to-head format with one of the greatest matchups pinball has ever seen: The Addams Family vs. Terminator 2. Two of the most iconic machines ever to grace an arcade floor. Two legends of the golden era. One episode to settle it. They're breaking down what makes each machine a classic, what separates them, and — most importantly — which one reigns supreme. The gloves are off, the flippers are ready, and things are about to get competitive.

All the pinball and arcade news you've come to love is still here, but Season 2 is playing a whole new game. Whether you're a die-hard collector, a casual player, or someone who's been chasing that high score since the '90s, this is the episode that sets the tone for what's coming. Buckle up — Modern Man in Search of High Scores is just getting started.

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In this episode Lawrence and Dean hit the road for one of the strangest pinball pilgrimages yet: a visit to the legendary Winchester Mystery House, where staircases lead nowhere, doors open into walls, and somehow there’s a pinball machine based on it. It's also time to catch 'em all in arcade and pinball news.

** Show Notes **

The fight title Dean mentioned: https://youtu.be/tVWtyXQhdHQ

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Episode 16 of Modern Man in Search of High Scores is in session, and it’s time to hit the books—pinball style. We’re heading back to school to break down essential pinball moves and techniques designed to take you from total noob to pro… or, at the very least, from noob to not-so-noob. Whether you’re trying to gain control, extend your ball times, or finally understand what your flippers are supposed to be doing, this one’s for you. Plus, as always, we put a cherry on top with the latest arcade and pinball news.

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Join us for a very special holiday edition of Modern Man in Search of High Scores. Dean and Lawrence take a comprehensive look at every pinball machine released in 2025, reflecting on the year’s biggest highlights and surprises. The show also celebrates Festivus, featuring the airing of grievances and the tests of strength, along with the latest arcade and pinball news. It’s a seasonal wrap-up focused on games, opinions, and the pursuit of high scores.

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On this episode of MMISOHS, Dean and Lawrence cover the current list of ever-growing controversies across the pinball landscape in an attempt to make sense of the madness that is the pinball hobby. We also have a very special holiday message for all of out listeners, so be sure to stay tuned for that; as you might walk away with something extra in your stocking. Plus, arcade and pinball news. Reach out to us at [email protected]

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