The Led Zeppelin (LE) Pinball Machine

Is a special edition pinball machine released by Stern Pinball in 2020. It features the legendary rock band Led Zeppelin, showcasing their iconic music, imagery, and stage presence. The game offers a fun, high-energy experience for fans of the band and pinball enthusiasts alike, combining classic rock elements with modern pinball features.

Key Features:

• Manufacturer: Stern Pinball

• Year Released: 2020

• Designer: Steve Ritchie

• Software Developer: Lyman Sheats

• Art Package: Zombie Yeti (Jeremy Packer)

• Production Numbers: 500 units (Limited Edition)

• Theme: Led Zeppelin, focusing on the band’s legendary music and the iconic imagery from their albums and stage performances.

1. Playfield Design:

   • Music and Band Elements: The game incorporates various songs and elements of Led Zeppelin’s music catalog. Key tracks, such as “Whole Lotta Love,” “Stairway to Heaven,” “Immigrant Song,” and “Kashmir,” are featured prominently in the game. These tracks play during modes and multiball sequences, adding a strong connection to the band’s iconic sound.

   • Interactive Playfield Toys: The game features ramps, loops, and targets, including some references to the band’s imagery. A key feature is the Zeppelin Ship Ramp, which serves as a major playfield element.

   • Mystery Box: A unique feature that allows players to trigger a surprise reward or mode, adding a layer of unpredictability and excitement to gameplay.

2. Cabinet Art:

   • The Limited Edition version of the game includes stunning artwork by Zombie Yeti (Jeremy Packer), who is known for his dynamic and detailed pinball art. The artwork showcases elements of Led Zeppelin’s rich history, including the iconic Zeppelin airship, album covers, and iconic symbols associated with the band.

   • The side art and backglass feature vibrant and detailed depictions of the band’s music and imagery, helping to create an immersive visual experience for players.

3. Lighting and Sound:

   • LED Lighting: The game is equipped with dynamic LED lighting that changes based on gameplay, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the game. The LEDs provide a visually stimulating effect that changes depending on the mode or song being played.

   • Soundtrack: As a Led Zeppelin pinball machine, the game is filled with songs from the band’s catalog, which are dynamically triggered throughout the game. The soundtrack includes songs like “Immigrant Song,” “Kashmir,” “Stairway to Heaven,” “Whole Lotta Love,” and many more. The audio is a key part of the game, helping to make players feel like they’re part of a Led Zeppelin concert.

   • Authentic Voiceovers: The game also includes voiceovers that capture the essence of Led Zeppelin’s energetic concerts and presence.

4. Gameplay:

   • Song Modes: The game features song-based modes that are triggered by completing objectives, similar to other music-themed pinball machines. Players can trigger modes for individual Led Zeppelin songs, each of which has its own set of objectives and mechanics. Completing these modes rewards players with high scores and progresses them through the game.

   • Zeppelin Ship Ramp: This is a key ramp that players aim to shoot through during certain modes and multiballs. It plays a big role in both the gameplay and in progressing the player through different musical themes.

5. Limited Edition (LE) Features:

   • Numbered Plaque: The LE version comes with a special numbered plaque, making it a collector’s item and more exclusive than the standard version.

   • Shaker Motor: The LE model includes a shaker motor that vibrates the machine during key events, such as multiballs or high-intensity modes, to enhance immersion.

6. Pinball Modes & Objectives:

   • Song Modes: The game’s modes are largely based on the individual songs of Led Zeppelin. Players must complete specific objectives to trigger these modes.

     • For example, “Whole Lotta Love” might require players to hit a series of targets or ramps, while “Immigrant Song” could trigger a multiball or bonus mode.

   • Multiball Modes: Key multiballs in the game include the “Kashmir Multiball” and “Stairway to Heaven Multiball,” each with unique gameplay objectives and opportunities to score big points.

   • Mystery Box: The Mystery Box can be activated by hitting certain targets. When opened, it provides a random reward, such as additional scoring, unlocking modes, or increasing multipliers.

7. Collectibles and Accessories (LE Exclusive):

   • High-Quality Artwork and Finishing: The LE model’s art and overall aesthetic are of the highest quality, with premium materials, chrome accents, and stunning graphics.

   • Exclusive Memorabilia: Some editions came with additional exclusive Led Zeppelin-themed collectibles, such as signed memorabilia, special art prints, or posters.