Box art

Technical Information

Platform: NES
Versions played: Nintendo Switch Online
Developer: Nintendo
Publisher: Nintendo
Other versions: Arcade
Release date: Feb/02/1984 (JP); Oct/18/1985 (US)
Genre: Pinball / Classic
Where to play now: Nintendo Switch Online

A No-Frills Pinball Fling

About the Game

Pinball for the NES is a straightforward take on the classic arcade game. Released during the early days of the console’s life, it’s an uncomplicated title that aims to capture the essence of pinball. Developed by Nintendo, this game opts for minimalism rather than excess, giving you the pure essence of pinball without the glittery distractions. However, don’t expect any bells or whistles; this game’s charm lies in its minimalism.

How Is the Gameplay

The gameplay in Pinball is as rudimentary as it gets. You control the flippers at the bottom of the screen to keep the ball in play, aiming to hit various bumpers, targets, and ramps to accumulate points. Two screens await your pinball prowess, each offering its unique set of challenges. There’s even a bonus stage featuring Mario and a… uhn… girl… to rack up extra points. That’s about it. No flashy power-ups, no complex rules, just pure, unadulterated pinball action. Pinball for the NES embraces its bare-bones gameplay, making it the kind of game you play for a quick, uncomplicated jolt of nostalgia or a break from more complex adventures.

What’s Good About the Game

The best thing about Pinball is its simplicity. It’s a game that you can pick up and play without needing an instruction manual or a tutorial. The controls are responsive, and the physics of the ball are reasonable, making it relatively easy to enjoy. It offers a basic yet somewhat fun experience, ideal for those moments when you want to test your reflexes and relive the straightforward fun of early NES gaming.

If you’re seeking a game that’s easy to get into, Pinball offers an uncomplicated and somewhat enjoyable gaming experience.

What Isn’t So Good About the Game

Of course, there’s a catch. The simplicity of Pinball quickly turns into a drawback. Once you’ve batted the ball around both screens and seen all they have to offer, the game’s allure starts to fizzle out.

It lacks the depth and complexity of more modern pinball video games, leaving you yearning for a bit more substance. Contemporary titles offer intricate tables with missions, complex objectives, and visuals that won’t make you feel like you’re squinting at hieroglyphics. Pinball may quench your nostalgic thirst, but it doesn’t quench your gaming appetite for very long.

Technical Features

From a technical perspective, Pinball for the NES is as basic as it gets, and doesn’t exactly push the 8-bit hardware to its limits. The graphics are simple and lack detail, sticking to the basic NES aesthetics of its time.

Sound effects are minimal, and the music consists of a few repetitive tunes. It’s evident that the game doesn’t aim to push the hardware limits; instead, it aims to capture the essence of pinball without any visual or auditory extravagance.

How Does It Compare

When compared to modern pinball video games or even more advanced NES titles, Pinball falls short in terms of depth and complexity. While it has its nostalgic charm, it doesn’t stand up well against contemporary pinball games, which offer more intricate tables, intricate objectives, and improved graphics and sound.

Is the Game Worth It

Pinball for the NES is a game for those who seek simplicity and a touch of nostalgia. It’s not a title that will hold your attention for an extended period, and its lack of depth makes it more of a quick diversion than a lasting gaming experience. If you’re a fan of retro gaming and enjoy basic pinball gameplay, it might be worth a try. However, for most players, there are more engaging options available.

Tips and Tricks

– Choose Your Game: game mode A is easier, with a lighter ball; game mode B offers a more “realistic” experience, with a heavier ball.

– Ghost Flippers: when you reach 100,000 points, the flippers will disappear; they’ll come back to life once you get to 150,000 points.

– Save the Dame: when you get to the bonus stage, don’t let the girl fall; get her and direct her to one of the exits.

Score

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