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PinballGuides Researched by Mark Hayes

Editorial Standards

How PinballGuides Reviews Products

Mark Hayes, Founder & Lead Editor
This page lays out exactly how PinballGuides evaluates pinball machines — the criteria we use, the experience behind our picks, and how affiliate links work.

What this site does

PinballGuides is an editorial site that helps players, collectors, and investors make smarter decisions about pinball machines. I’ve spent a decade watching the collector market, parts supply chain, and competitive scene shift — and that’s the lens I apply here. We focus on what your money actually buys: ruleset depth, mod potential, and long-term parts availability. No hype, no fluff. Just honest, structured analysis so you know whether a machine fits your situation.

How we evaluate

  • Ruleset maturity: We weigh how developed the code is — deep modes, replayability, and future updates.
  • Mod ceiling: We assess the aftermarket support for artwork, mechs, and LEDs — how customizable the machine can be.
  • Parts viability: We track long-term availability of boards, coils, and ramps — critical for keeping a machine running.
  • Resale trajectory: We study auction and private-sale trends to understand how value holds over time.
  • Community backing: We read forums and user feedback to gauge real-world experiences and common issues.

Affiliate disclosure

Some links on this site are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you buy through them. This does not affect our recommendations or pricing.

How to reach Mark

Real feedback, corrections, or shop-floor stories that contradict something on this site: use the contact page. A real person reads what comes through.