Which Pinball Machine Stole the Show? | Pinball Expo 2026

Pinball Expo 2026 was absolutely INSANE! But with so many incredible new pinball machines on the show floor, which ones actually STOLE THE SHOW? Every year, I head to Chicago for Pinball Expo, and somehow, every year, these manufacturers find a way to raise the bar. But 2026 was something else! We had the highly anticipated Bon Jovi from Barrels of Fun, Yukon Yeti from Turner Pinball, Sonic the Hedgehog from Jersey Jack Pinball, Fallout from Stern, and the return of the legendary Cirqus Voltaire from a completely revitalized American Pinball! And that’s just scratching the surface. From massive manufacturers to small independent builders and some absolutely incredible homebrew creations, this year’s Expo reminded me why I love this hobby so damn much. But here’s the million-dollar question… Which pinball machine actually stole the show? I’ve spent the last several days talking to manufacturers, playing the games, listening to the community, and taking in everything Pinball Expo 2026 had to offer. Now it’s time to share my experience and give you my two cents on the games that made the biggest impression. No hype for the sake of hype. Just my genuine thoughts on what I saw, what surprised me, and what I think deserves your attention. And trust me, there were definitely some surprises! So grab a drink, kick back, and enjoy another crazy adventure through Pinball Expo with Retro Ralph! NOW I WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Which pinball machine stole the show for YOU? Was it Bon Jovi? Sonic? Yukon Yeti? Fallout? Cirqus Voltaire? Or something completely different? Drop your pick in the comments! If you’re new here, consider subscribing. We’re always checking out the latest pinball machines, visiting manufacturers, and exploring everything this incredible hobby has to offer.