Microsoft Pinball Arcade (1998)

by Christopher May 5, 2024

written by Christopher May 5, 2024 5 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1998
Genres: Arcade, Pinball
Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows)
Developers: Microsoft
Publishers: Microsoft

Microsoft Pinball Arcade (1998): A Classic Pinball Experience on the Go

Microsoft Pinball Arcade is a pinball game developed by Microsoft and released for the Game Boy Color in 1998. It is a port of the 1995 PC game of the same name, and features seven different pinball tables that are based on real Gottlieb pinball machines.

The game’s tables are:

Space Cadet: A classic pinball table with a space travel theme.
Black Hole: A table with a black hole theme, featuring a unique gravity mechanic.
Cue Ball Wizard: A table with a billiards theme, featuring a variety of different shots.
*JackBot:** A table with a robot theme, featuring a variety of interactive elements.
Lights…Camera…Action!: A table with a Hollywood theme, featuring a variety of movie-themed targets.
Monster Bash: A table with a monster theme, featuring a variety of different monsters.
El Dorado City of Gold: A table with a Western theme, featuring a variety of different gold-themed targets.

Each table has its own unique layout, objectives, and scoring system. The game also includes a variety of different power-ups and bonuses that can help players score more points.

The graphics in Microsoft Pinball Arcade are simple but effective, and the sound effects and music add to the arcade feel. The game also features a variety of different camera angles that allow players to see the table from different perspectives.

Overall, Microsoft Pinball Arcade is a solid pinball game that’s sure to please fans of the genre. It features a variety of different tables, each with its own unique theme and gameplay. The graphics are simple but effective, and the sound effects and music add to the arcade feel.

Gameplay

The gameplay in Microsoft Pinball Arcade is similar to other pinball games. Players use the flippers to control the ball and score points by hitting targets and completing objectives. The game also features a variety of different power-ups and bonuses that can help players score more points.

One of the unique features of Microsoft Pinball Arcade is the ability to change the camera angle. This allows players to see the table from different perspectives, which can be helpful for planning shots and avoiding obstacles.

Reception

Microsoft Pinball Arcade was well-received by critics upon release. Many praised the game’s variety of tables, its solid gameplay, and its arcade-like feel. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.

Legacy

Microsoft Pinball Arcade is considered to be one of the best pinball games ever released for a handheld console. It has been praised for its variety of tables, its solid gameplay, and its arcade-like feel. The game has also been credited with helping to popularize pinball on handheld consoles.

Conclusion

Microsoft Pinball Arcade is a classic pinball game that’s sure to please fans of the genre. It features a variety of different tables, each with its own unique theme and gameplay. The graphics are simple but effective, and the sound effects and music add to the arcade feel. Overall, Microsoft Pinball Arcade is a solid pinball game that’s sure to keep players entertained for hours on end.

Review Score

8/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Christopher

Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.