Zen Studios has faced several bumps in the road while trying to shift from FX3 to the Nintendo Switch platform, and Pinball FX – Williams Pinball Volume 8 is no different. Naturally, the first question that comes to mind is, “What happened to Volume 7?” Well, unfortunately, you won’t find it on the Switch. So, how does this new trio of tables stack up? The short answer is—it’s a mixed bag.
Let’s dive in with a look at what arguably stands out as the best table in this collection: Black Knight 2000. The name might mislead you into thinking it’s a product of modern times, but this gem hit the arcades back in 1989 as a sequel to the 1980 original. Its vibrant colors and lights are a nostalgia trip straight to the arcades of yesterday, even if it doesn’t exactly ring a bell from my own childhood. What really grabs your attention is the kickass music. With catchy lyrics like, “You’ve got the power (ha ha ha ha ha), you’ve got the might (no way), get ready for battle (give me your money), beat the black knight,” it really sets the tone. The table may pose a steep learning curve for some, but the payoff is sweet as you work those drop targets and ramps and watch your high score soar.
Next, we have Banzai Run, one of two Pat Lawlor machines this set boasts. Though I have a slight bias toward his creations from the ‘90s—including hits like Funhouse and Addams Family—this table leaves me cold. The motorcycle theme doesn’t quite rev my engine, and the layout is less than thrilling. While the vertical playfield concept is innovative, it also results in lots of empty space, leading to a lackluster gameplay experience. Combine that with some choppy performance, which might be specific to the Switch, and you’ve got a table that doesn’t beckon for mastery or endless virtual coin deposits. It’s distinctive in its own right, just not in a way that keeps you hooked.
Lastly, we come to Earthshaker, probably the easiest table on which to rack up high scores. Its standout feature? Multiball with such intense HD rumble that it shakes sense into the earthquake theme, perhaps tipping its hat to gimmickry. It’s far from extraordinary but respectable as a middle-of-the-road table, likely to be more appealing for newcomers to the pinball scene. Just remember, this table’s vibrating impact demands a controller with rumble support to fully appreciate the immersive experience it offers.
In summary, this trio offers an inconsistent experience. While Black Knight 2000 encapsulates the vibrant and energetic spirit of the ’80s, the $14.99 price tag might have you hoping all tables in the set pack a similar punch. Earth’s contribution lies in its rumble capability, and Banzai Run unfortunately feels like a misstep on the Switch. This collection could be one to wishlist and nab during a sale, or consider sticking to what you know with Pinball FX3.
