We have lots of big releases coming out now that the summer is ending, but we’ve also seen a ton of DLC releases for games we’ve enjoyed reviewing in the past. Today we’re taking a quick look at three of them with mini reviews of two new tables for Pinball FX and a fresh new pack for GigaBash.
Pinball FX – The Princess Bride review (PS5)
The Princess Bride DLC for Pinball FX, isn’t something we saw coming, but it offers a charming pinball experience for fans of both the movie and pinball. Featuring voice clips and video moments from the cult classic film, the table succeeds in capturing the spirit of its characters and some of its scenes. The gameplay is straightforward, with recognizable elements like duels with Inigo Montoya and a Battle of Wits, offering an accessible experience to both newcomers and pinball enthusiasts who aren’t familiar with the film. However, while the table feels like it could exist as a physical pinball machine, the lack of innovative features and mechanics might leave pinball veterans craving more complexity.
Despite its traditional design, the Princess Bride table excels in atmosphere. The combination of classic movie lines, iconic scenes, and decent scoring mechanics make it an enjoyable nostalgia trip for fans of the film. Zen Studios has done well by including original voice work and visuals, offering a richer audiovisual experience than some of their other licensed tables – which is a good move for an IP you wouldn’t quickly associate with pinball. So while the mechanics don’t break new ground, the charm and faithful adaptation of The Princess Bride are sure to keep fans engaged.
Pinball FX – Goat Simulator review (PS5)
Another surprise from Zen Studios, The Goat Simulator DLC for Pinball FX is a chaotic, off-the-wall experience that embraces the absurdity of its source material. Featuring wacky table mechanics, like guiding Pilgor the goat to start a nuclear apocalypse or launching a tractor over ramps, the table is full of with unpredictable and humorous elements. However, its complexity and chaotic nature may be overwhelming for newcomers, as the gameplay requires time to master. Veteran players who appreciate the quirky charm of Goat Simulator will likely find it rewarding very quickly though, as it certainly looks and feels different from a ‘regular’ table.
The table’s visuals and audio match the eccentricity of its gameplay (and of the game it’s based on), delivering a zany aesthetic that mirrors the chaotic energy that Coffee Stain’s titles are known for. And while it may lack the polish and ‘clean design’ of more traditional pinball tables, it makes up for it with creativity and fun. For players willing to embrace the madness, this DLC offers a unique pinball experience that stands out within the ever-growing Pinball FX catalog.
GigaBash – Mighty DLC: R.O.J.A.K & Balzarr review (PS5)
The Mighty DLC: R.O.J.A.K & Balzarr for GigaBash introduces two dynamic new characters with contrasting styles that bring even more flavors to the GigaBash arena. Balzarr, with its sleek design and agility, uses a blade-like tail for swift attacks and its signature Predator Stance to ambush opponents. On the other hand, R.O.J.A.K, is a mech that’s controlled by five pilots, offering a multi-faceted combat experience with unique abilities from each body part, making for strategic and diverse gameplay.
While both characters are visually impressive and feature distinct playstyles that enrich the roster, mastering their complex controls can take some time, especially for newer players – who we can see gravitating more towards other (existing) characters. Visually, the DLC captures the game’s fun, chaotic energy, with strong audio effects to match the intense battles. As mentioned, the characters add considerable depth to GigaBash’s combat as well, though the learning curve may feel steep for casual players. For those who’ve been playing GigaBash for a while, this DLC is a worthy addition, adding more diversity and challenge to this fun monster brawler experience.
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