Episode 126 - Pinball Composer II w/ Dan Forden
Dan Forden on sound design philosophy, technical evolution, and creating iconic pinball audio.

A weekly pinball podcast brought to you by the people that run Wedgehead, a pinball bar in Portland, Oregon. Each week Alan and Alex discuss a different pinball topic, occasionally with other guests.
If you have any questions, or might want to guest on a future episode, please email: wedgeheadinfo@gmail.com.
A weekly pinball podcast brought to you by the people that run Wedgehead, a pinball bar in Portland, Oregon. Each week Alan and Alex discuss a different pinball topic, occasionally with other guests.
If you have any questions, or might want to guest on a future episode, please email : wedgeheadinfo@gmail.com.
Dan Forden on sound design philosophy, technical evolution, and creating iconic pinball audio.
Collector Tom Rader discusses Williams reverse wedgehead EMs from the 1960s as the best pinball era.
Wedgehead argues Bram Stoker's Dracula is the best pinball ever made, showcasing peak 90s design.
Playfield geometry spectrum: unique-but-clunky vs. familiar-but-derivative shot layouts.
Wedgehead defends Q-Ball Wizard as an underrated 1992 Gottlieb gem with vibes and gameplay depth.
Connor argues Black Knight Sword of Black Knight Sword of Rage (Pro) is the best game ever for its replayability, flow, and elegant design.
Deep dive into Barry Oursler overlooked legacy as one of pinball's most prolific designers.
Individual game earnings are misleading; operators should optimize ROI, variety, and ecosystem fit over coin box totals.
New ELO-based pinball ranking site challenges Pinside's dominance with simpler, faster comparative voting.
1995 Pinball Hindsight Awards crown Attack from Mars, Theater of Magic as standout games of strong commercial year.
Alex ranks Medieval Madness, The The Addams Family, and Godzilla as top 3 best pinball games ever made, claiming objectivity over opinion.
The The Addams Family (1992) defense: iconic design, innovative mechs, perfect IP integration, accessibility + depth.
Pokémon praised as breakthrough hit balancing new-player appeal with skilled-player depth and operator economics.
Deep dive into D. Gottlieb & Co. 80A (1982-85): chaos, innovation, and the games that stuck or plopped.
Wedgehead declares Whitewater the greatest pinball game ever, analyzing its design across every dimension.
Crash course on legendary EM pinball designers, emphasizing Steve Kordek and Norm Clark innovations.
Operators question the 'new games earn best' narrative; boutique & classic games often outperform new Sterns.
Comprehensive Sega pinball history from Japanese origins through Data East acquisition and early American production (1995).
Casual pinball player Megan reviews 2025 releases with focus on layout, art, and vibe: no industry knowledge.
Center ramps debate: safety shots for casuals, bailout boredom for experts.