- Marvel Maxx Elite

First Impressions
Released in June 2018, the Storm Marvel Maxx Elite is a sought-after "International Release" (originally intended for the Asian market) that adds an interesting nuance to the legendary Marvel series. Visually it strongly recalls the classic Marvel Pearl (silver/green/blue), but it comes out of the box with one decisive difference: a dull 3000-grit Abralon finish. Inside works the world-famous symmetrical Centripetal core (the father of the !Q Tour series). With a very low 2.48 RG and a high 0.050 differential (at 15 lbs), this core produces extremely early and stable revving up. The special part is the cover: Storm uses the NRG Smooth Pearl Reactive coverstock here. This combination of pearl base, nano technology (NRG) and dull finish aims to perfectly close the gap between a true solid and a shiny pearl.
Comparison
Compared directly to the "Holy Grail," the original Storm Marvel Pearl, the Marvel Maxx Elite reads the lane considerably earlier and is smoother overall. While the original Marvel Pearl (polished) flew through the heads and snapped at the breakpoint, the Elite uses the NRG chemistry and the dull finish to smooth the lane out. It is less sensitive to oil in the backend. Compared to the Storm !Q Tour (solid), the Marvel Maxx Elite is often a touch longer and stores a bit more energy, but offers a surprisingly similar, controlled "benchmark" motion. It is more aggressive than a Hy-Road, but more controllable than a Physix. It behaves like a hybrid that combines the best of both worlds.
On the Lanes
The Storm Marvel Maxx Elite is the ultimate "problem solver" for difficult lane conditions. It is predestined for sport patterns and medium to heavier house shots. Its greatest strength is blending: it doesn't let the wet spots feel so slick or the dry spots feel so grabby. It is perfect when pure solids burn up too early but shiny pearls react too touchy ("over/under"). Thanks to the Centripetal core it rolls very heavy and drives extremely well through the pins without creating uncontrollable angles. A fantastic ball for tournament players who put control above everything else.