Stern Pinball Unveils Transformers: More Than Meets the Eye

Stern Pinball is continuing its strong momentum in 2026 with the reveal of Transformers: More Than Meets the Eye, a new pinball experience inspired by the iconic 1980s Transformers animated series and film. Following the recent launch of Pokémon pinball, the company is once again tapping into a globally recognized entertainment brand, this time bringing Autobots and Decepticons to the modern pinball scene with new technology, interactive mechanics, and fan-focused features.

Available in Pro, Premium, and Limited Edition models, Transformers: More Than Meets the Eye combines classic Transformers nostalgia with modern gameplay innovations. From animatronic toys and competitive multiplayer mechanics to integrated online features through Stern’s Insider Connected platform, the machine is designed to appeal to longtime collectors, arcade operators, and a new generation of players alike.

A Return to Classic Transformers

While Transformers has appeared in pinball before, Stern’s newest release takes a very different direction from the company’s earlier machine based on the Michael Bay films. Instead, More Than Meets the Eye embraces the original 1980s cartoon aesthetic that many fans grew up watching.

That shift in presentation is likely to resonate strongly with collectors and players who remember the early days of the franchise. The cabinet artwork, music, voice acting, and gameplay missions all pull inspiration directly from the original animated series and The Transformers: The Movie.

Stern also secured authentic voice work from Peter Cullen and Frank Welker, the legendary voices behind Optimus Prime and Megatron. Combined with the inclusion of “The Touch” by Stan Bush, the game clearly leans into the nostalgia factor while still introducing fresh gameplay systems.

New Gameplay Features and Mechanical Innovations

Transformers: More Than Meets the Eye is not simply a reskin of an older machine. Stern developed an entirely new layout and packed the game with interactive mechanical features designed to make gameplay feel dynamic and unpredictable.

One of the biggest highlights is the fully animatronic Megatron toy featured in the Premium and Limited Edition models. Equipped with a rotating fusion cannon, Megatron can actually fire pinballs back at players during gameplay sequences. The machine also includes a sculpted Optimus Prime bash toy and a Soundwave cassette deck mechanism that locks and launches pinballs into play.

Additional gameplay features include:

• A Bumblebee captive ball feature
• Three-bank drop targets
• Dinobot team-up modes
• Energon Cube power-up mechanics
• Collectible Tech Spec card objectives
• Story-driven missions inspired by the original animated series

The game also introduces a unique simultaneous multiplayer battle mode where two players can compete against each other in real time using split flipper controls. This competitive feature adds a social element rarely seen in traditional pinball gameplay.

Modern Connectivity Meets Classic Pinball

Like Stern’s recent releases, Transformers: More Than Meets the Eye fully integrates with the company’s Insider Connected platform. Players can track progress, unlock features, and participate in connected gameplay experiences through their accounts.

One of the newest additions is the Cyber Coin wallet system, which allows players to earn in-game currency that unlocks exclusive challenge modes and gameplay content. Stern also added a “Prime Training” mode that helps newer players learn gameplay mechanics while still fitting naturally into the Transformers theme.

These connected systems continue to show how modern pinball is evolving beyond standalone gameplay experiences and becoming more interactive, competitive, and community-driven.

With Transformers: More Than Meets the Eye, Stern Pinball delivers a machine that blends nostalgia, innovation, and high-energy gameplay into one impressive package. By focusing on the beloved 1980s version of the franchise while introducing new mechanical features and connected systems, Stern has created a release that stands out in today’s pinball market.

For arcades, collectors, and Transformers fans alike, the machine represents another example of how modern pinball continues to evolve while still celebrating the classic properties that players love. Find the Pro model on our website, or if you want to up your game, check out the Premium build!

Thanks for reading! Here at PrimeTime Amusements, we like to keep ahead of the curve in arcade game rental and sales and pride ourselves in providing the best service in the country. If you’re looking for a game in particular, or have a few questions about the industry, feel free to give us a call at 1.800.550.0090 or to swing by at 5300 Powerline Rd. Suite 210, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, 33309.