Is AC/DC the Next Stern Pinball Machine?

Rumours surrounding Stern Pinball's next release are beginning to gather serious momentum, and one title keeps appearing again and again:

AC/DC.

While nothing has been officially confirmed by Stern, multiple sources within the pinball community are now suggesting that AC/DC could be returning in an all-new pinball machine designed by John Borg.

If the rumours prove true, it could become one of the most anticipated music-themed pinball machines in years.

Why AC/DC Makes Perfect Sense

AC/DC is already one of Stern's most successful music licenses.

The original 2012 machine, designed by Steve Ritchie, remains one of the highest-rated concert-themed pinball machines ever produced and is still a favourite among collectors today.

An entirely new interpretation by John Borg would offer something completely different rather than simply revisiting the original design.

If you'd like to explore the classic machine, take a look at our Best AC/DC Pinball Mods guide or browse our AC/DC Pinball Mods collection.

Why John Borg?

John Borg has earned a reputation for creating some of the most exciting layouts in modern pinball.

From The Walking Dead and Metallica to Iron Maiden, Borg consistently delivers games packed with flow, fast decisions and satisfying shots.

If these rumours are accurate, pairing AC/DC with Borg's design philosophy could create a machine that feels completely fresh while preserving the energy fans expect from the licence.

Learn more about one of Stern's most respected designers in our John Borg Pinball Designer article.

A New Era for Music Pinball?

Music-themed machines have become increasingly popular over the last decade, and another major rock licence would be a welcome addition to Stern's catalogue.

AC/DC's catalogue is filled with iconic songs, unforgettable artwork and decades of rock history, giving Stern plenty of material for an exciting new machine.

We recently explored why music and pinball work so well together in When Music and Pinball Collide.

Two Major Music Machines?

An interesting twist is that another rumoured music-themed game is already attracting attention.

Reports continue to suggest that Barrels of Fun may be developing a Bon Jovi pinball machine.

If both rumours become reality, pinball fans could see two major music releases arriving within a relatively short period of each other—something that would make for an exciting period for collectors.

Read more about that rumour in Is Bon Jovi the Next Barrels of Fun Pinball Machine?

For Now, It's Still Just a Rumour

As always, it's important to remember that nothing has been officially confirmed by Stern Pinball.

Rumours frequently circulate before announcements, and plans can change during development.

However, the growing number of discussions surrounding an AC/DC machine designed by John Borg has certainly made this one worth watching.

If the rumours are true, Stern could be preparing one of the biggest music-themed releases in years.

We'll be following every development closely.