The Walking Dead Remastered vs Original: What's New for Pinball Collectors?
- Wizard Mod
- Jun 21
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 1
The Walking Dead remains one of the most beloved modern pinball machines ever created. Originally released in 2014, the game quickly earned a reputation for its brutal difficulty, deep ruleset, intense gameplay, and one of the most immersive themes Stern had ever produced.
More than a decade later, The Walking Dead Remastered has arrived, bringing this fan-favorite title to a new generation of collectors. Built on Stern's latest Spike 3 platform, the remastered edition introduces updated technology, enhanced presentation, modern lighting systems, and a fresh opportunity for customization.
While the original machine focused on capturing the tension and survival elements of the television series, The Walking Dead Remastered gives collectors a chance to experience the game with modern hardware and visual upgrades while preserving the gameplay that made the original so popular.
For many pinball fans, this release is particularly exciting because original The Walking Dead machines have become increasingly difficult to find. The remastered version offers collectors a chance to own one of the hobby's most respected modern games without entering the increasingly competitive secondary market.
At Wizard Mod, we have supported The Walking Dead theme for years through our collection of upgrades for the original machine. With the arrival of the remastered edition, we are excited to expand the range even further with products specifically designed for the new Spike 3 platform.
One of the biggest opportunities for customization comes through our custom WizBlades. The Walking Dead Remastered Premium includes Stern's new Expression Lighting system, creating a unique opportunity for collectors to personalize the cabinet while preserving the factory lighting effects.
Our EL Cut version is precision-cut to fit perfectly around the factory Expression Lighting installation, allowing the artwork and lighting effects to work together seamlessly.
For owners who prefer maximum artwork coverage, our Full Cut version uses the entire cabinet side area to create the most immersive visual effect possible.
On earlier Spike 2 machines, this feature was commonly known as Expression Lights or Expression Light.
Check out more about these two options of WizBlades for more Spike 3 machines on our EL Cut vs Full Cut Thread.
Collectors searching for custom art blades or pinblades will appreciate having both options available, allowing them to choose between showcasing the factory lighting system or maximizing cabinet artwork.
One area where the remastered machine offers particularly exciting customization opportunities is the speaker panel. Unlike the original machine, which already featured integrated artwork in this area, The Walking Dead Remastered opens the door for entirely new visual upgrades.
Our magnetic WizPanels for The Walking Dead Remastered have quickly become some of our favorite designs, bringing additional artwork and atmosphere to one of the most visible areas of the machine.
Another standout upgrade is the apron area. On both the original and remastered machines, the apron design is heavily influenced by the ball-launching crossbow mechanism. While this feature is iconic, it leaves relatively little room for artwork compared to many other pinball machines.
Our custom WizAprons help transform this area by introducing premium artwork while still respecting the unique layout of the machine. Even better, collectors can choose who stands alongside Rick Grimes in the artwork, with options featuring Michonne, Daryl Dixon, or Negan depending on their favorite characters from the series.
Collectors looking for additional personalization can also explore our growing collection of speaker panel upgrades, apron artwork, button accents, coin door covers, hinge covers, and many other accessories inspired by The Walking Dead universe.
The Walking Dead remains one of the strongest themes Stern has ever produced. The combination of survival horror, memorable characters, intense gameplay, and striking visual design provides an incredible foundation for custom artwork and premium pinball mods.
Whether you own the original 2014 machine, the new remastered edition, or are considering adding one to your collection, The Walking Dead offers endless opportunities for customization. With modern Spike 3 technology, Expression Lighting support, and a theme packed with iconic characters, the remastered edition is already proving to be one of the most exciting pinball releases of recent years.
While The Walking Dead Remastered brings modern Spike 3 technology and new customization opportunities, the original 2014 machine remains a true pinball classic. Collectors who own the original version can also explore our dedicated range of artwork upgrades and accessories designed specifically for the first release. The Walking Dead Pinball Mods
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