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Pinball FX3

Zen Studios’ pinball game is now a platform on Switch and it’s marvelous.
Pinball FX3 Game Cover
83%Game Brain Score
graphics, gameplay
optimization, monetization
87% User Score Based on 3,093 reviews
Critic Score 80%Based on 18 reviews

Platforms

Nintendo SwitchXbox Series X|SPCXbox Game PassPlaystation 5CloudPlaystation 4Xbox OneXbox Cloud GamingSteam DeckWindowsPlayStation
Pinball FX3 Game Cover

About

Pinball FX3 is a multiplayer arcade simulation game with fantasy and science fiction themes. It was developed by Zen Studios and was released on September 26, 2017. It received mostly positive reviews from critics and positive reviews from players.

Pinball FX3 is a dynamic and engaging pinball simulation game that features a variety of tables with unique themes and objectives. With stunning graphics, realistic physics, and both single-player and multiplayer modes, it provides a captivating experience for both casual and hardcore pinball enthusiasts. Customizable controls and various challenges add depth to this immersive game.

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87%
Audience ScoreBased on 3,093 reviews
graphics163 positive mentions
monetization11 negative mentions

  • Great graphics and realistic physics that enhance the pinball experience.
  • Wide variety of tables available, including classic Williams tables and unique Zen originals.
  • Engaging gameplay with multiple modes, challenges, and online tournaments that add replayability.
  • High cost for additional tables, making it expensive to unlock the full experience.
  • Some tables have issues with physics and gameplay, leading to frustration.
  • Recent changes in business practices, including the need to repurchase tables for the new version, have disappointed many long-time fans.
  • graphics
    292 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The graphics in "Pinball FX3" have received widespread acclaim for their stunning visuals, vibrant colors, and realistic physics, enhancing the overall pinball experience. Players appreciate the detailed animations and dynamic lighting effects that bring each table to life, making it visually appealing and immersive. While some users noted minor performance issues on lower-end systems, the majority agree that the graphical upgrades from previous versions significantly elevate the game's aesthetic quality.

    • “The graphics in 'Pinball FX3' are stunning, with high-quality textures and lighting effects that make the tables look almost real.”
    • “Each table is beautifully crafted, with vibrant graphics, smooth animations, and dynamic lighting effects that bring the classic arcade feel to life.”
    • “The graphics are excellent, very crisp at 4K on a large screen, and it's clear that a lot of care went into the modeling, textures, and lighting of the machines.”
    • “Graphics are cartoony with overly bright colors and special effects that all blend to make some table items hard to see (including the flippers).”
    • “Plays okay, graphics are low to mediocre.”
    • “They have destroyed every table with stupid graphics and they have added stuff that doesn't belong on a pinball table at all.”
  • gameplay
    183 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The gameplay in "Pinball FX3" is generally praised for its addictive mechanics, impressive variety of themed tables, and realistic physics, particularly on the Williams tables. However, some players have reported bugs, inconsistent ball mechanics, and intrusive leveling systems that detract from the overall experience. While many enjoy the arcade-style gameplay and customization options, others feel that certain tables and mechanics can be frustrating or poorly designed, leading to a mixed reception overall.

    • “The gameplay of 'pinball fx3' is excellent, offering a realistic and immersive pinball experience.”
    • “The game boasts an impressive variety of themed tables, each with its own unique gameplay mechanics and challenges.”
    • “The gameplay, graphics, sound, and replayability are all excellent, making it a great choice for pinball fans and gamers looking for a fun and challenging game.”
    • “Several games I have reported numerous bugs with how the game works, both logically (pub champ still has the wrong ROM as the game can break), and non-existent physics/ball mechanics (scoops do not work properly on Attack from Mars and neither does the ship forcefield drop targets as the game).”
    • “Bad mechanics, bad feelings, takes forever to fix bugs, I've seen balls go through paddles, some tables have invisible bumpers, I've experienced FPS drops out of nowhere causing good runs on my favorite tables to be completely destroyed.”
    • “The issue I have is that the game runs choppy on my machine and there is noticeable screen tearing during gameplay; I have tried changing settings but to no avail.”
  • story
    62 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The story aspect of the game is generally well-received, with many players appreciating the intricate narratives woven into various pinball tables, particularly those based on popular franchises like Fallout and Skyrim. While some tables focus heavily on gameplay mechanics rather than storytelling, others offer rich, immersive experiences with character progression, missions, and unique quests that enhance replayability. Overall, players find that the combination of engaging storylines and dynamic gameplay makes for a compelling pinball experience, though some tables may lack depth in their narratives.

    • “I was surprised just how intricate some were - such as the fallout table that lets you make a character, has an inventory and currency, and features a variety of missions and faction quests to explore as you play.”
    • “Some of the franchised tables are so deep that you actually feel as if you're playing through a story, whereas most pinball sims are all about racking up high scores.”
    • “The tables are inventive and elaborate, compelling you to come back again and again to unlock more missions and modes.”
    • “Most of the movie-based boards aren't that thought out in regards to game-story continuity.”
    • “Some of the machines focus too much on eye-candy, backstory, mini-games, etc., rather than gameplay.”
    • “Although with the graphics that are used and some of the tables' missions and stories, as well as the mini table games too.”
  • music
    47 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The music and sound effects in the game receive mixed reviews, with many praising the high production values, engaging soundtracks, and immersive ambiance that enhance the overall experience. However, there are significant complaints regarding the absence of original music and voice acting in licensed tables, leading to a lackluster experience for some players. While the unique themes for each table are appreciated, the inconsistency in quality and licensing issues detracts from the nostalgia and enjoyment for purists.

    • “The sound design of 'Pinball FX3' is top-notch, with each table having its unique sound effects and music.”
    • “The music, sound effects, and graphics perfectly match the games that inspired them and offer an electrifying experience for every fan.”
    • “Great music, atmosphere, not too cluttered, and a similar layout to the Walking Dead table, with very fun missions and modes.”
    • “The music they were forced to put on the table now makes me want to find the people that made it; they need to be changed.”
    • “From the knock-off theme music to the missing Huey Lewis and the News tune, the approximations are like those cheap drinks that claim to have a flavor of fruit, but it feels like someone just shouted the name of the fruit across the street.”
    • “What hasn't changed is the lackluster voice acting and music on some of the licensed tables, but most of the tables are fun and there are so many to choose from that it's hard not to recommend this game if you're wanting your digital pinball fix.”
  • optimization
    46 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    Overall, optimization for the game is a mixed bag; while many users report smooth performance across a range of hardware, others experience significant issues such as stuttering, crashes, and lag, particularly with certain tables. Some players have found that adjusting graphics settings can alleviate problems, but longstanding bugs and a lack of promised updates have left many frustrated. Despite these challenges, the game is generally considered better optimized than its predecessor, with improved physics and visuals, though it still requires further refinement.

    • “In my experience, it is well optimized and runs smoothly when compared to FX.”
    • “The game itself runs smoothly and takes little system resources.”
    • “This pinball game runs absolutely smooth, no input lag, no stuttering and high resolution.”
    • “Just suddenly bricked itself, no longer works for me, I can't play it, game just crashes to desktop and I can't fix it. Broken game and I wasted $20 on DLC that I no longer have access to; thanks a lot, unoptimized piece of crap game.”
    • “Apart from longstanding bugs never fixed, a kiddy UI, lack of proper cabinet support and tweaking, broken servers, scores from cheaters on leaderboards never removed, dozens of recurring complaints about all the above being addressed with the usual fake-happy, empty PR talk ('we hear you - forwarded to the devs' - for the 150th time already) and broken promises/logical-sense support like the physics update to volumes 1-3 marble physics people have been waiting years for and which never came. Instead, you will probably get it if you buy it again with the Fortnite launcher. The rest of their 'original tables' is uninspired, mediocre video pinball with shallow/amateurish table design, poor table feedback and audio production/acting performance, and an empty-shell ball without weight with or without some power gimmicks.”
    • “The biggest issue with all this XP accumulation and leveling up is that it causes performance issues and random lag that in pinball means missed shots and needless gutter drains, which are about the worst thing that can happen in this type of game where one single delayed input could mean the difference between a new high score or not.”
  • replayability
    31 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    "Pinball FX3" boasts high replayability, featuring a diverse array of tables, modes, and challenges that keep gameplay fresh and engaging. Players appreciate the various single-player, multiplayer, and tournament options, as well as the ability to try tables before purchasing. With numerous challenges and a progression system enhancing the experience, the game is highly recommended for those seeking depth and replay value in pinball gaming.

    • “Pinball FX3 introduces a range of modes and features that add replayability and keep the game fresh.”
    • “"Pinball FX3" offers excellent replayability, with a wide range of tables, modes, and challenges to keep players engaged.”
    • “Challenge modes, including a 5-minute challenge, survival challenge, and 1-ball challenge, offer hours of added replayability to each of the tables.”
    • “Even on sale at $5 is more than I want to pay for something with such extremely limited replay value.”
    • “It’s a shame that licensing issues mean that some tables have been left behind, but the new progression system adds replayability to every other table that you already own.”
    • “Would love to see even more of this, to make each table as replayable as possible.”
  • monetization
    27 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The monetization model of the game has received mixed reviews, with many players expressing frustration over the prevalence of microtransactions for unlocking additional tables, which can feel excessive and predatory. While some appreciate the value of the in-game purchases and the base game being free, others criticize the high costs associated with individual tables and the presence of ads, leading to a perception of the game as a cash grab. Overall, opinions vary, with some finding the monetization fair and manageable, while others feel it detracts from the overall experience.

    • “Although I'm against egregious monetization, in the case of pinball tables, with licensing and development costs, the outlay is understandable.”
    • “Really accurate representation of classic pinball machines; yes, there are in-game purchases, but they're great value for money and the base app is free. Buy the tables you like.”
    • “Monetization feels fair this way, and with some patience, you can buy all your favorites (or them all) at a discount.”
    • “Zen Studios is guilty of the worst kind of predatory monetization and grifting.”
    • “Pretty solid and enjoyable pinball game, the only downside is the huge amount of microtransactions (having to pay for each individual table).”
    • “Trash cash grab... want you to pay 10 dollars for most sets of tables, most sets of tables are super lame... yeah the base game is free, it comes with 2 tables as far as I can tell.”
  • stability
    21 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The stability of the game is a mixed bag, with many users reporting significant bugs, glitches, and issues with random number generation that disrupt gameplay. While some players praise the game for running well on lower-end hardware and experiencing minimal glitches, others express frustration over frequent crashes and the need to restart the game multiple times. Overall, the developers appear to be neglecting stability updates in favor of new content, leading to a less consistent gaming experience.

    • “Runs well, no glitches or bugs I've found.”
    • “Great pinball game that runs great even on an iffy work laptop.”
    • “Runs great on less powerful hardware.”
    • “When you have to relaunch the game three times to play a single session of 'junkyard' or switch between tables, it makes me think the devs care more about milking pinball junkies out of their cash with DLC than they do making a consistent, non-buggy experience.”
    • “There are several random glitches and weird ball movement that make precision play a nightmare.”
    • “It freezes after about 5 or 10 minutes into a good ball.”
  • grinding
    12 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    Reviews indicate that the grinding aspect of the game is largely viewed as tedious and repetitive, with players often feeling disengaged from the competitive elements. Many express frustration with the necessity to repeatedly play to unlock upgrades or maintain league standings, leading to a sense of monotony. While some enjoy the online tournament play, the overall sentiment is that grinding detracts from the enjoyment of the game.

    • “It can be a bit grindy at times, but it's part of the experience.”
    • “Grinding can feel like a long, tedious process, but it adds depth to the game.”
    • “You'll definitely need a second life for all the grinding involved!”
    • “It's just a tedious process.”
    • “You are actually not playing or competing with anyone aside from essentially grinding out the number of times you can play the game in a week.”
    • “I just absolutely hate the multiplayer even though I am grinding out until I get to the top league just because, but once that is done I will be so happy to leave that and never look back.”
  • humor
    6 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The humor in the game is characterized by charming animations and a lighthearted tone, appealing to fans of comedic pinball experiences. However, some players find certain elements, like the focus on Bigfoot's laughter, frustrating, and there are concerns about the game's appeal to those sensitive to specific humor styles, such as that found in shows like "Archer" and "Family Guy." Overall, while the game offers a funny experience, it may not resonate with everyone.

    • “Funny pinball game”
    • “Big funny game”
    • “Charming animations and sense of humor, however.”
    • “There are people out there who would love to play humorous pinball tables, but are offended by shows such as 'Archer' and 'Family Guy'.”
  • atmosphere
    6 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The atmosphere in the game is highly praised, with users highlighting the engaging music and well-designed layouts that enhance the overall experience. The "Mars" table stands out as a prime example of effective atmospheric design, successfully evoking a sense of wonder and adventure, while the improvements in real-time lighting significantly elevate the visual appeal. However, some users found the alien-themed tables lacking in atmosphere compared to others.

    • “Great music, atmosphere, not too cluttered and a similar layout to the Walking Dead table, and very fun missions and modes.”
    • “Mars is one of the best atmospheric tables Zen Studios has made.”
    • “I was a bit disappointed with the alien tables because of their lack of atmosphere, but Mars proves that Zen Studios is capable of delivering the terrible wonder of the unknown.”
    • “I always thought FX2 was a good looking game, but this has topped that easily. The best graphical improvement is on the real-time lighting; the lighting will cast a shadow on the ball and really adds a lot to the atmosphere of each table.”
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28h Median play time
220h Average play time
4-560h Spent by most gamers
*Based on 6 analyzed playthroughs
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Frequently Asked Questions

Pinball FX3 is a arcade simulation game with fantasy and science fiction themes.

Pinball FX3 is available on Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S, PC, PlayStation 5 and others.

On average players spend around 220 hours playing Pinball FX3.

Pinball FX3 was released on September 26, 2017.

Pinball FX3 was developed by Zen Studios.

Pinball FX3 has received mostly positive reviews from players and mostly positive reviews from critics. Most players liked this game for its graphics but disliked it for its optimization.

Pinball FX3 is a multiplayer game.

Similar games include Pinball Arcade, Zaccaria Pinball, Zen Pinball, Pinball M, Williams™ Pinball and others.