I’ve been closely following everyone’s reactions to the new games at last week’s Chicago Pinball Expo. Of course the new machines from the big companies got a ton of chatter, but I was happy to see a machine from a newcomer get what appears to me to be overwhelmingly positive feedback…Turner Pinball’s Ninja Eclipse. The reviews of the game over on Pinside were great.
So I figured that I’d reach out to Chris Turner to get an update on the company for everyone. Here’s a Q & A with the company’s namesake:
“KNAPP: How are sales going?
TURNER: Sales are going great! We took four games up to the Chicago Expo, and everyone loved the game! Players kept coming back to play and often brought their friends along. It was so much fun to see so many people excited about our game! We also got a huge boost in sales at the show.
KNAPP: Do you think the 100-unit initial run will sell out?
TURNER: We are very close to selling out, so I feel extremely confident that we’ll reach that milestone soon. I want to also mention that we currently have no plans for a future run of Ninja Eclipse. If that ever did happen, all of the LE features would be taken out to make sure that the First Edition buyers always have something special and rare.
KNAPP: Have any games shipped to buyers yet?
TURNER: Yes, the four games we brought to Expo went home with customers. We will continue building and shipping in batches to fulfill all our orders.
KNAPP: How long do you think it will take to produce all 100 games?
TURNER: I’m not 100% certain yet, but I’m aiming to complete all 100 games by the end of Spring 2025. As we ship more batches, I’ll be able to provide a more accurate estimate, and I’ll keep everyone updated via social media.
KNAPP: Are there any plans for a second game in the works?
TURNER: A lot of folks at the show were wondering the same thing! All the engineering work we’ve done was with future games in mind. Right now, though, my main focus is on fulfilling all the orders for Ninja Eclipse. I am trying to balance that with not getting behind on what's next. So yes, we’re definitely thinking about future titles.”
Anyone who is interested in ordering one of the remaining Ninja Eclipse machines can do so directly from Turner Pinball on its website or if you want the added benefits that come with purchasing through a distributor, you can go through MAD Pinball.
FYI .. Flip N Out Pinball is selling them, too.
It's heartening to see something good rise from the ashes of the Deeproot debacle. I'm wishing the Turner crew all the best. It seems like a very promising start for the company.
Thanks for the write up, Jason! Chris is a great guy. The show was super awesome, and it’s thanks to everyone who came to the booth, played the machine, chatted, and especially to those who bought one. We’re so excited to get these built and shipped to everyone.
Brad Duke