- Intimidator Pearl

First Impressions
The DV8 Intimidator Pearl looks sharp in a combination of Purple, White and Ocean and continues the successful Intimidator series. The ball uses the proven asymmetric Assailant core with a 2.481 RG (15lbs) and a 0.051 differential, paired with an Inciter Max Pearl coverstock finished at 500/1000 SiaAir with Crown Factory Compound. Released on October 15, 2020, the ball combines a very low RG, high differential and high mass bias for extreme midlane roll and backend continuation. The modern DOT and DynamiCore technologies should provide improved durability and hitting power.
Comparison
Compared to other skid/flip options in the Brunswick family, the Intimidator Pearl ranks very high, similar to the Storm Prism Hybrid from the previous season. Next to the Storm Prism Hybrid, the Intimidator Pearl shows a slightly rounder reaction at the breakpoint, which adds predictability to the backend motion. As an ideal complement to the original Intimidator, the Pearl offers an easy transition out of heavy oil conditions through the combination of a strong asymmetric core and a shiny pearl surface for aggressive motion with continuation. The polished surface clearly sets it apart from its solid counterpart and makes it a valuable addition if you already have the original Intimidator in the bag.
On the Lanes
The ball gets through the heads clean, is angular off the dry, and handles oil surprisingly well for a pearl coverstock. The Crown Factory Compound box surface allowed bowlers with lower rev rates to use it on drier patterns, while rev-dominant bowlers still had enough hook for heavy oil patterns out of the box. Especially notable is the traction on shots left of target into heavier oil — shots that normally wouldn't get back to the pocket still reach strike potential. With a pin-down layout, the ball is in its element on left-to-right motion with a big backend move. Ideal if you're looking for a dependable skid/flip reaction for medium to heavier oil volumes while putting a premium on predictability.