My experience is somewhat limited (haven’t played new games like Godzilla, Foo Fighters, etc.), but to me, it’s Medieval Madness. Lots of personality, doesn’t rely on a license, and really clear objectives. Just a lot of fun.
Banzai Run (1988).
For its uniqueness of a 2nd vertical playfield, great music and clear play objectives, this is always an enjoyable table.
I had to look that up—the upper level is so freaking cool!
Fun fact, the Banzai software was done by Ed Boon of Mortal Kombat/Noob Saibot fame.
I don’t think there has been another multi-flipper playable backglass table made after this, but hoping someone can add details if there is.
Highly recommend to check it out if there is one near you. Pinball map
Extra fun fact, I’m playing it later today :D
Also fun fact: Larry DeMar co-designed and co-programmed this one. I know Larry has a number of pinball credits, though I usually think of him more in relation to his work on Defender and Robotron.
I had not realised up until this thread, that there was crossover between video-arcade and pinball creators.
I’d always treated them as two totally separate worlds, that end up in the same arcades.