Stern’s Transformers, released in 2011 and designed by George Gomez, pits the heroic Autobots against the villainous Decepticons on a fast, accessible playfield based on the blockbuster film franchise. With a captive ball (Bumblebee), a spinning target, and a kick-out hole, it’s a clean, combo-friendly machine built around a clever faction-selection system that gives it real replay variety.
The scoring is anchored by two big multiballs. You begin Optimus Prime Multiball by working the center lane enough times to ready it, then pounding Optimus until it begins; Megatron Multiball comes from hitting the spot targets and locking four balls in the scoop behind them (a tricky kickout, so be ready). The Bumblebee captive ball and the pop bumpers change which mode is lit, and hitting four red or purple lit shots starts a mode — though modes can’t be started during multiball, so timing matters. Three blue targets light the All-Spark at the left saucer, which adds time during a mode or an extra ball during multiball.
There’s smart strategy in the faction choice and the multipliers: picking the Autobots opens up the “Mudflap and Skids” two-ball multiball mode, into which you can start the bigger Megatron and Optimus multiballs, while spelling BUMBLEBEE lights 2X scoring you’ll want to time for a big shot or a mini-wizard mode. Bright, fast, and welcoming to newcomers while hiding genuine depth for the dedicated, Transformers is an enjoyable Gomez machine that captures the clash of giant robots in satisfying fashion. Autobots, roll out — there’s more than meets the eye.