Transformers: More Than Meets the Eye – Why This Stern Machine Feels Different

More Than Meets the Eye... In More Ways Than One

The title couldn't be more appropriate.

Transformers: More Than Meets the Eye isn't just the name of Stern's latest Transformers pinball machine—it's also the perfect description of the game itself.

At first glance, collectors see spectacular artwork, familiar Autobots and Decepticons, and an exciting modern Stern release.

But the more you play, the more you realise this machine is full of clever ideas that make it feel unlike almost anything else in Stern's current lineup.

A Fresh Approach from Elliot Eismin

Designed by Elliot Eismin, this is only his second pinball machine following John Wick, but once again he shows a willingness to experiment rather than simply repeat layouts that have worked for decades.

If you'd like to learn more about his career, don't miss our Elliot Eismin Pinball Designer article.

Instead of relying on familiar shot geometry, Transformers introduces new angles, unusual ball movement and memorable mechanical moments that keep every game feeling fresh.

For a designer this early in his career, it's an incredibly promising direction.

The Megatron Cannon

Every great modern pinball machine has a moment players remember.

In Transformers, it's Megatron.

The centre toy doesn't simply sit on the playfield as decoration. Instead, Megatron launches the ball from a cannon into the playfield, creating one of the most dramatic and satisfying moments in the game.

It's mechanical, unexpected and perfectly suited to the Transformers theme.

Moments like this are exactly why modern Stern machines continue to push pinball design forward.

A Layout That Rewards Exploration

Many modern pinball machines encourage players to repeat the same shots over and over.

Transformers feels different.

The layout constantly encourages exploration, making players discover new combinations, new feeds and new strategies as they become more familiar with the game.

The result is a machine that becomes more enjoyable the longer you own it.

It doesn't reveal everything during the first few games.

Just like its name suggests, there's always a little more to discover.

Built for Custom Artwork

Transformers also happens to be one of the most visually striking modern Stern machines.

The bold comic-inspired artwork, vibrant colours and iconic Transformers characters make it an ideal machine for customisation.

Our Transformers WizBlades are available in both EL Cut and Full Cut versions, allowing owners to choose whether they want to showcase Stern's Expression Lighting or completely surround the playfield with artwork.

It's one of the most dramatic visual upgrades available for the machine.

The collection also includes custom WizPanels, WizDoors, WizAprons, WizBats, WizEmblems, WizShooters and WizWings, all designed to extend the factory artwork naturally throughout the machine.

More Than a New Release

New machines often generate excitement simply because they're new.

Transformers feels different.

Its original layout, memorable mechanical features and bold visual presentation give it the potential to become a machine collectors continue talking about for years.

Whether you're attracted by Elliot Eismin's fresh design ideas, the incredible artwork or the opportunity to personalise the machine with premium custom artwork, Transformers offers far more than first impressions suggest.

Looking for ideas to customise your machine? Our Best Transformers: More Than Meets the Eye Pinball Mods guide showcases some of our favourite upgrades, from immersive WizBlades with EL Cut and Full Cut options to premium artwork designed to extend the factory visuals throughout the entire machine. It's a great place to discover how collectors are transforming one of Stern's most exciting recent releases.

To explore every available upgrade, visit our complete Transformers: More Than Meets the Eye Pinball Mods collection.