Pinball fans know Zen Studios for their Pinball FX series, but they’re doing something different now with Pinball M – a horror-inspired pinball platform that caters to a different type of audience. Unlike FX, Pinball M takes a darker turn, exploring mature content and delivering a slew of tables filled with terror and horror, with a mix of classic horror IPs and original content. We checked it out on a PlayStation 5.
Pinball M introduces players to a fresh array of pinball tables, each one quite different despite sharing its “mature” approach. The eldritch horror-inspired “Wrath of the Elder Gods: Director’s Cut” sets the tone with a pinball take, offering a pinball-based approach to the world of H.P. Lovecraft. Those more inclined towards film and videogames have plenty to choose from as well, with tables like “Chucky’s Killer Pinball” that is based on Child’s Play and “The Thing Pinball” for movie fans. Gamers will no doubt enjoy the “Dead by Daylight Pinball” and “Duke Nukem’s Big Shot Pinball” tables, each with its own unique take on a familiar concept and narrative. Pinball M’s mature direction is apparent, and the tables effectively blend atmospheric visuals with iconic horror elements, creating an engaging backdrop for each playthrough that makes great use of lighting.
Pinball M inherits the solid physics and versatile play modes from Pinball FX, ensuring a satisfying experience for both pinball purists and casual players. The variety of play modes, including Classic and Arcade, provides you with different ways to play, while challenges, campaigns, and tournaments offer even more additional ways to test and improve your pinball skills. Whether you’re a seasoned pinball enthusiast or a newcomer, Pinball M’s controls are accessible and responsive, contributing to an enjoyable gaming experience. And while perhaps not entirely authentic for those who enjoy physical tables, the incorporation of abilities such as time manipulation does add a layer of strategy to the game.
Turning towards the visuals and audio, Pinball M impresses with its impressive graphics, bringing each table to life with meticulous attention to detail. The horror-themed tables, including those inspired by “Chucky,” “The Thing,” and “Dead by Daylight,” boast visually attractive designs that capture the essence of their respective franchises – with little touches making all the difference. The atmospheric feel, snowfall, and lighting effects on “The Thing Pinball” create the most immersive pinball experience since Zen went the VR route. The audio complements the visuals, with iconic voice lines and thematic soundtracks enhancing the overall immersive atmosphere.
In conclusion, Pinball M emerges as a great niche addition to Zen Studios’ pinball repertoire, offering a mature take on the genre. The game provides a cohesive and rewarding package, and we’re hoping Zen will build in it with more content. With a good variety of horror-themed tables, engaging gameplay mechanics, and immersive visuals, Pinball M stands out as a must-play for those who enjoy horror and the occasional game of pinball. The inclusion of Duke Nukem may raise an eyebrow as it’s more “mature” than horror, but for gamers it’s a surprising and enjoyable addition. The one downside is that this is the third pinball platform we now have to work with, after some of FX3’s tables weren’t ported over to Pinball FX and all of Pinball M’s tables can only be accessed through its own hub. A relatively minor issue, but worth mentioning for this otherwise excellent new take on pinball.
Score: 8.0/10
Press Play Media 