Stern Pinball, Inc. was founded in 1999 by Gary Stern, continuing the legacy of his father, Sam Stern, who had been a key figure in the pinball industry. The company emerged from the remnants of Sega Pinball, which Gary Stern had acquired, and quickly positioned itself as the dominant force in the modern pinball era. At a time when pinball was in decline due to the rise of video games and the closure of major manufacturers like Williams/Bally, Stern Pinball became the industry’s last standing major pinball producer. The company kept the game alive by focusing on licensed themes, appealing to both traditional arcade-goers and a growing collector market.

Throughout the 2000s and 2010s, Stern expanded its reach with major titles based on popular franchises, including The Lord of the Rings, Spider-Man, Batman, and The Walking Dead. The company introduced technological advancements such as LCD displays, internet connectivity, and the Spike system, allowing for more dynamic gameplay and easier updates. Stern’s dominance continued as pinball experienced a resurgence, fueled by a new wave of home collectors and competitive play through the IFPA (International Flipper Pinball Association). Today, Stern remains the leading manufacturer of pinball machines worldwide, consistently releasing new games and collaborating with designers like Keith Elwin and John Borg to push the boundaries of pinball innovation.