Bowen Kerins
Bowen Kerins is a notable figure in modern pinball, recognized for both his competitive achievements and contributions to game design. A multi-time world champion—winning titles under the PAPA and IFPA banners—Kerins rose to prominence as a player in the 1990s. He balanced this competitive streak with a deep analytical understanding of pinball machines, which led to tutorial videos that remain influential among enthusiasts. His transition to the industry came through roles at Spooky Pinball and Multimorphic, where he served as a rules designer on titles such as Alice Cooper’s Nightmare Castle, Rick and Morty, and Weird Al’s Museum of Natural Hilarity. In these positions, he helped shape game logic and player experience, blending classic pinball mechanics with deeper narrative progression.
Kerins’s impact extends beyond his own work, as he also played a role in popularizing high-level strategies and fostering a growing tournament scene. He was part of the organizing team behind major events like Pinburgh, and his name became associated with teaching and nurturing new talent through detailed rule explanations. By melding player-focused perspectives with modern development techniques, Kerins has influenced how contemporary pinball machines are designed, with many now emphasizing more accessible tutorials and dynamic scoring features. His lasting legacy lies in bridging competitive expertise, community engagement, and creative design to help shape the direction of pinball in the 21st century.
