Pinball FX Volume 8 is the latest DLC in a long-running franchise. This latest addition adds 3 quality retro tables alongside the vast list of existing content. I haven’t played the base game or the other DLC before. Accordingly, this was my first dip into this interesting pinball experience.
Zen Studios developed and published this classic pinball game. Moreover, it can be enjoyed as a casual title or you can challenge global players in various tournament modes. If you do not have any of the other DLC, you can try each one before you invest. Thankfully, the base game is free, but the content is limited. Therefore, you will want to open your wallet if you wish to get the best out of the game.
Pinball FX Volume 8 adds some quality tables.
Pinball FX Volume 8 includes 3 Williams retro tables for lovers of all things 80s. Black Knight 2000, Banzai Run, and Earthshaker are the tables that must be defeated. Each of these unique themed machines has its challenges to overcome. My favourite was Earthshaker as it was the easiest to navigate. The other 2 were reasonably complex and scoring mechanics were a little challenging.
There isn’t too much to shout about when I discuss overall gameplay mechanics. There are several modes to enjoy and gamers can test their skills across a variety of platforms. These are the keys to longevity and replay value. Without them, you’d rely on every DLC to get the most out of this game.
Pinball FX Volume 8 looks great.
The developer has done a great job with the animation and the detailed tables. Furthermore, the different themes across each DLC were great to look at. I’d have preferred more juxtaposing ideas as the focus on sinister and dark settings could have been mixed up. However, this wasn’t a problem as the base game has some lighthearted tables to play on.
The audio is as loud as you’d expect. The silver balls ping and bounce off every surface. Moreover, the slap of each paddle and the noise of the bumpers were great to hear. On top of this, I loved the 80s sound effects and the chilling nature of each booming voice.
Simple controls.
I was amazed at how easy Pinball FX Volume 8 was to play. Though it lacks that tactile hands-on feeling, it was pretty good. Additionally, the controller layout is intuitive and the inputs are responsive. Consequently, it is a joy to play.
Replay value and longevity are questionable. Your tournaments are restricted if you don’t have access to the full range of DLC. Moreover, once you’ve nailed a high score on your favourite table, there is little reason to return. As such, this will prevent gamers from coming back for more.
Pinball FX Volume 8 is fun but limited.
I enjoyed my time with Pinball FX Volume 8. However, despite its fun ideas and interesting tables, it was extremely limited. This prevents it from excelling and will hold it back. The developer’s sales model should be adapted to include more tables with the base game. Alternatively, there should be more tables available for online tournaments. If this happens, the game will be vastly improved. Despite the shortcomings, I enjoyed it and I recommend buying it here! Can you master each of the 80s retro tables? Load the table with coins, study each pathway, and get a high score.
