- Marvel Retro

First Impressions
The Storm Marvel Retro hits the lanes as an exclusive Asian re-release in a classic Blue and Silver Pearl design. Inside works the world-famous symmetrical Centripetal core, which shows a low 2.480 RG and a strong 0.050 differential. For the cover, Storm relies on the proven R2S Pearl Reactive coverstock, finished out of the box with a 1500 grit polish. This combination of the enormously rev-happy engine and the low-friction pearl shell should let the ball glide extremely cleanly through the heads and build a very strong, predictable roll phase in the backend.
Comparison
Compared directly to the regular Storm Marvel Pearl, the Marvel Retro behaves almost identically and offers a familiar, drastic backend motion. Against the Storm Phaze II, which uses a dull solid cover, the Marvel Retro delivers a far longer skid phase, but builds a similarly powerful hook at the breakpoint thanks to the Centripetal core. When friction on the lane is high and transition dries up the front part of the lane, the Marvel Retro conserves its energy exceptionally well and reacts incredibly sharply toward the pin deck.
On the Lanes
The Storm Marvel Retro is best suited to lane conditions with medium oil volume. For strokers and bowlers with moderate ball speed, it offers the option of playing deeper lines, since the cover saves energy while the symmetrical core provides the continuous response off the breakpoint. The steady drive toward the pocket should deliver convincing carry. On fresh, extremely heavy oil, however, this ball can lack traction because of the polished finish. It's a brilliant benchmark ball for dried-up boards.