I just finished building this and my goodness is it fun. I have exactly 2 gripes with it from a design standpoint: 1) The spinner door and rotating seal don't score. It would be cool if you scored for spinning those, with the score increasing with more spins like consecutive hits on the bumpers. 2) The total score being 1000 and ending things instead of having high scores and allowing you to play as long as you can. From a quality standpoint, there really are only minor issues with things coming loose and I would like to point out full-size pinball machines are far more challenging to maintain.
After seeing this game advertised for a week or so I finally ordered on the weekend. It arrived yesterday 9 Aug 2023 and I started building. I got through page 11 and stopped for the evening. So far a very enjoyable build. This is my first 3D model ever...wooden or otherwise but I'm confident in my abilities. Decades of various model building experience including high-power model rockets...I think I'm OK with this. I've ordered some UV black light LED strip lights and black light fabric paints to spice it up.
Honestly for slightly more than the price of this tabletop, you could buy a vintage home pinball machine (3/4 scale) like Big Top by Wico, Alive! by Brunswick or even Star Explorer by Consolidated Industries Co.
Great review and construction tips...looking forward to getting more progress made on mine. I've had it for a day now and making steady progress. I'll be referring to your video during my build for your tips and more. Thanks!
If I'm understanding you right. You mean to change the music and sound effects. I don't think there's any way to connect to this to change the program. There are only connections for the electronics (lights, speaker, & sensors) But that kind of stuff is above my pay grade. 🙂 I'm sure someone who knows what they're doing could use a raspberry pi and replace the included electronics, but again, that's beyond my expertise.
One of mine was sticking while I was building it. I had to adjust the screws underneath, where the flippers are connected. If it's completely built, you're probably going to have to take a lot of it back apart to get to that part.
Just finished building mines and my left flipper sticks too. Tried loosening the screws and even took the mechanism apart, re-waxed and re-assembled it. What I found out was that the flat piece of wood (J13) that goes over the left and right flipper mechanisms had to be pushed out just enough over the left mechanism so the flipper would move freely but also at the same time still retain its position over the J12 pegs.
Thank you. I am about to start doing this one and found this video when I was wondering if i needed glue. Goes t look like it though unless buts need to be glued down at the end. Looking forward to it.
i have a few questions? 1 whats your ratings on this? 2 how long would it take in one day? 3 would there be any problems prior to buliding? 4 do i have to get the tools to ensemble the machine?
1. For this type of wooden model build, I would give this a solid 9 out of 10 rating. 2. I split this build into 2 days. I don't remember exactly how long it took, but it would be a full day build. 3. I didn't run into any problems during the build. 4. You will need simple tools like a phillips screwdriver, scissors, and some needle nose pliers and super glue come in handy. I hope this helps.
This is very cool. By the way, the ball kickers you mentioned are actually called pop bumpers in the industry. Would be cool to route the audio to a nice amp, and slightly bigger speaker. Hopefully, it'll still be in stock, once I'm able to afford it, in a couple of months. Thanks for doing this.
Pop bumpers, okay, thank you. Yeah, it could do with some better sound. It has a very tiny speaker. I hope you get one. I am genuinely impressed with it. Hopefully, they come out with different styles.
Great video! I just build one about 4 days ago and my wife and I have been having fun playing it pretty often. Mine resets itself pretty often for no reason too. I would suggest to people who have built one to take the spinning seal back out and throw it away. It's way more fun without it because there's better access to the center ramp.
I'm going to order one soon. I didn't know such a thing existed till I saw this video. I love the way it has an old wild west kind of vibe but all new and shiny. Some will hate me for this but I'm thinking... a bit of shoe polish here and there to give it a relic'd look. A few traces to make it look as though the tracks have wear and tear where the ball has been rolling. Who knows, maybe even hack the music chip so it plays 'the good the bad and the ugly' instead of that weird barrel music. I'm thinking arduino and a bit of tinkering to see if a proper scoreboard could be integrated somewhere on that backdrop, high score etc. Maybe even a few more features. I'm sure I can't be the only one looking at this and thinking 'how can I make this even better without ruining it?'
Yes, I can definitely see people making some changes. I've seen some that have been painted that look Amazing. As far as the scoreboard, I like it because it's accurate for the time period that this "retro" pinball game is representing. Of course, the backboard scoring is better, and I would love to see rokr come out with other models of pinball of a more "modern" style because this one is fantastic.
My main concern for this build is the bands used for the lower and side bumpers (at around 7:49 in the video). Are they rubber or silicone bands? I've built a handful of wooden mechanical builds, and I've always had issues with the longevity of those builds since they primarily use rubber bands for their "spring" mechanisms. The rubber bands degraded quite quickly after completing the builds, but silicone bands should last longer. It would of course be even better if the bands were easily replaceable 🙂
Thank you so much for checking. Also, considering that you built this months ago, how are the condition of the bands now? Do you get the same amount of "bounce" from them now that you did right after you built it?
I'm building this now and the main table surface (piece J1 at 4:58 in your video) has a pronounced left to right curve that's going to channel the ball right between the flippers. I've written to the manufacturer to see if I can get a replacement, but in the meantime I'm trying to reverse the curve by keeping it weighted. It doesn't seem like the construction going forward is going to force the table to be flat.
@@blackandredbuilds They’ll send replacement sheets for $5 shipping. 2-3 weeks and hopefully it will arrive in usable condition. Not much I can do on it until then. I will say their support was super responsive; emailed them Saturday morning and got a response in less than an hour.
Does anyone have problems with the plunger? Mine does not seem to work correctly. Takes about 10 times to shoot the ball into the flield and the plunger just does not generate enough force to drive the ball upwards. It kind of blocks it self mitdway when you release it... Any tips what I can do?
I haven't had that issue, but if the plunger is sticking, I would apply a little white lithium grease to the rod. It's safe for plastic metal and wood. Also, I use a quick snapping motion when shooting the ball. I find if I just pull it out and then let it go, it often won't make it to the playfield. Let me know how it goes.
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I just finished building this and my goodness is it fun. I have exactly 2 gripes with it from a design standpoint:
1) The spinner door and rotating seal don't score. It would be cool if you scored for spinning those, with the score increasing with more spins like consecutive hits on the bumpers.
2) The total score being 1000 and ending things instead of having high scores and allowing you to play as long as you can.
From a quality standpoint, there really are only minor issues with things coming loose and I would like to point out full-size pinball machines are far more challenging to maintain.
It really is great for what it is. I would love to see ROKR make a more "modern" design with a digital scoreboard and glass top.
After seeing this game advertised for a week or so I finally ordered on the weekend. It arrived yesterday 9 Aug 2023 and I started building. I got through page 11 and stopped for the evening. So far a very enjoyable build. This is my first 3D model ever...wooden or otherwise but I'm confident in my abilities. Decades of various model building experience including high-power model rockets...I think I'm OK with this. I've ordered some UV black light LED strip lights and black light fabric paints to spice it up.
It's definitely an enjoyable build. We've all had those builds we just grind through, but this is one of those that's fun, and you want more of it.
Honestly for slightly more than the price of this tabletop, you could buy a vintage home pinball machine (3/4 scale) like Big Top by Wico, Alive! by Brunswick or even Star Explorer by Consolidated Industries Co.
If it were a 2D model it would be pretty crap to be honest
Are there any upgrades (counters/reset buttons etc) available from the manufacturers
Not at this time.
Great review and construction tips...looking forward to getting more progress made on mine. I've had it for a day now and making steady progress. I'll be referring to your video during my build for your tips and more. Thanks!
That's awesome. Thanks for watching!!
Is it possible to integrate this with DMD software for developing our personalized games?
If I'm understanding you right. You mean to change the music and sound effects. I don't think there's any way to connect to this to change the program. There are only connections for the electronics (lights, speaker, & sensors) But that kind of stuff is above my pay grade. 🙂 I'm sure someone who knows what they're doing could use a raspberry pi and replace the included electronics, but again, that's beyond my expertise.
My left trigger isnt working properly. Sometimes it gets stuck. Anyone else having this Problem and already getting it solved?
One of mine was sticking while I was building it. I had to adjust the screws underneath, where the flippers are connected. If it's completely built, you're probably going to have to take a lot of it back apart to get to that part.
Just finished building mines and my left flipper sticks too. Tried loosening the screws and even took the mechanism apart, re-waxed and re-assembled it. What I found out was that the flat piece of wood (J13) that goes over the left and right flipper mechanisms had to be pushed out just enough over the left mechanism so the flipper would move freely but also at the same time still retain its position over the J12 pegs.
Does the pinball have a scoreboard or a place to look at the score you have during the game or at the end of the game?
I explain the scoring system under the section "playing the pinball machine," and again, under the section "final thoughts." I hope this helps.
Thx
I wonder if anybody has painted one with pinball artwork
im about to buy this and do that, im no artist but atleast going to colorize it
nice to see it on youtube@@cocospyda242000
Maybe see if you can put machine on angle looks like a nice machine.
Haha your dog totally woke up my dog!
Yeah, she likes to be heard. 🐕
Thank you. I am about to start doing this one and found this video when I was wondering if i needed glue. Goes t look like it though unless buts need to be glued down at the end. Looking forward to it.
Thanks for watching!! You're going to enjoy it.
i have a few questions? 1 whats your ratings on this? 2 how long would it take in one day? 3 would there be any problems prior to buliding? 4 do i have to get the tools to ensemble the machine?
1. For this type of wooden model build, I would give this a solid 9 out of 10 rating. 2. I split this build into 2 days. I don't remember exactly how long it took, but it would be a full day build. 3. I didn't run into any problems during the build. 4. You will need simple tools like a phillips screwdriver, scissors, and some needle nose pliers and super glue come in handy.
I hope this helps.
This is very cool. By the way, the ball kickers you mentioned are actually called pop bumpers in the industry. Would be cool to route the audio to a nice amp, and slightly bigger speaker. Hopefully, it'll still be in stock, once I'm able to afford it, in a couple of months. Thanks for doing this.
Pop bumpers, okay, thank you. Yeah, it could do with some better sound. It has a very tiny speaker. I hope you get one. I am genuinely impressed with it. Hopefully, they come out with different styles.
@@blackandredbuildsOh, wow! I did not know they had different variants. I'll definitely keep a close eye out for those. :)
Great video! I just build one about 4 days ago and my wife and I have been having fun playing it pretty often. Mine resets itself pretty often for no reason too. I would suggest to people who have built one to take the spinning seal back out and throw it away. It's way more fun without it because there's better access to the center ramp.
Yeah, that seal is a pain. 😁
I'm going to order one soon. I didn't know such a thing existed till I saw this video. I love the way it has an old wild west kind of vibe but all new and shiny. Some will hate me for this but I'm thinking... a bit of shoe polish here and there to give it a relic'd look. A few traces to make it look as though the tracks have wear and tear where the ball has been rolling. Who knows, maybe even hack the music chip so it plays 'the good the bad and the ugly' instead of that weird barrel music. I'm thinking arduino and a bit of tinkering to see if a proper scoreboard could be integrated somewhere on that backdrop, high score etc. Maybe even a few more features. I'm sure I can't be the only one looking at this and thinking 'how can I make this even better without ruining it?'
Yes, I can definitely see people making some changes. I've seen some that have been painted that look Amazing. As far as the scoreboard, I like it because it's accurate for the time period that this "retro" pinball game is representing. Of course, the backboard scoring is better, and I would love to see rokr come out with other models of pinball of a more "modern" style because this one is fantastic.
I was thinking about gluing some parts like you did. You've convinced me!
Yeah, it had to be done. 👍
Great video, thanks! Looking forward to starting this build later today 😎
Thank you. Enjoy your build.
Does anyone know if a regular cell phone charger power supply will be enough to power this properly?
As long as it has at least 2amp output, it should be fine.
Thank you
My main concern for this build is the bands used for the lower and side bumpers (at around 7:49 in the video). Are they rubber or silicone bands? I've built a handful of wooden mechanical builds, and I've always had issues with the longevity of those builds since they primarily use rubber bands for their "spring" mechanisms. The rubber bands degraded quite quickly after completing the builds, but silicone bands should last longer. It would of course be even better if the bands were easily replaceable 🙂
The bands seem to be made of translucent silicone. But I can't say 100%. I did check the manual for you, but it doesn't say.
Thank you so much for checking. Also, considering that you built this months ago, how are the condition of the bands now? Do you get the same amount of "bounce" from them now that you did right after you built it?
@@josephwalentiny No problem. I don't notice any difference in the bands at this point. Also, I am planning to make an update video soon.
Wow.... spettacolare... ciao dall'Italia
Grazie... Salve.
Does it show the total score?
It shows the score by 100's up to 1000. So if you get to 1000, you win the game, and it starts over.
Where does it ship from
You can order it off Amazon now.
Is 1000 the top score?
Yes. When you reach 1000, it plays some music, all the lights flash, and your game will start over.
Could I ask how long it took you to build in total time?
It took about 10 hours of actual build time. Very fun build. I hope they make more of these.
@@blackandredbuilds Thanks mate. I’ll start my build on this one with my daughter tomorrow ;-)
I'm building this now and the main table surface (piece J1 at 4:58 in your video) has a pronounced left to right curve that's going to channel the ball right between the flippers. I've written to the manufacturer to see if I can get a replacement, but in the meantime I'm trying to reverse the curve by keeping it weighted. It doesn't seem like the construction going forward is going to force the table to be flat.
Darn.. sorry to hear that. Hopefully, they get that replaced quickly for you.
@@blackandredbuilds They’ll send replacement sheets for $5 shipping. 2-3 weeks and hopefully it will arrive in usable condition. Not much I can do on it until then. I will say their support was super responsive; emailed them Saturday morning and got a response in less than an hour.
Does anyone have problems with the plunger?
Mine does not seem to work correctly. Takes about 10 times to shoot the ball into the flield and the plunger just does not generate enough force to drive the ball upwards. It kind of blocks it self mitdway when you release it...
Any tips what I can do?
I haven't had that issue, but if the plunger is sticking, I would apply a little white lithium grease to the rod. It's safe for plastic metal and wood. Also, I use a quick snapping motion when shooting the ball. I find if I just pull it out and then let it go, it often won't make it to the playfield. Let me know how it goes.
please stop the use of this stupid "i am so cool i vote extreme left" music, for god sake.
In no way, shape, or form is this a political channel, my man. I can't please everyone with the royalty free music. Sorry if you didn't like it.