Developers SCEI are on the right track with their 2005 title Flipnic: Ultimate Pinball. Instead of trying to simulate the real-world looks and physics of a pinball machine, the developers have created an imaginary hybrid where analog meets digital in a unique design concept that could only exist in one’s imagination. The question on everyone’s mind is, is it worth it?
Fresh and Fit Playfields
Flipnic takes video pinball into the third dimension and beyond. Instead of flat, uninspired tables, the playfields in Flipnic take on epic proportions with multi-tiered levels and huge interactive environments that were never meant to be included in a pinball machine. Imagine setting up flippers, bumpers, and ramps in a rainforest where players deflect the ball off of trees, and roll it down paths and over majestic waterfalls. There are other levels that feature futuristic laser patterns and outer-space encounters.
New Age Graphics and Sound But Lacks of Challenge
The graphics are amazing, but the gameplay is somewhat limited. There are only a few of the requisite pinball paraphernalia in each of the levels. The physics is good but it’s too forgiving. The layout is a little sparse and it too is easy with large ramps that are almost impossible to miss. Once players explore all of the levels you’ll find that the game lacks a sustainable challenge. It would have been great if each level became progressively more difficult. Typical pinball “bells and whistles” sounds accompany your play. It’s also neat to hear sound effects such as water and explosions that are not typically associated with pinball sound effects.
Flipnic works more like a shooter than a pinball game. By using the flippers players try to hit various targets and complete the mission. Sometimes players will have to launch the ball up ramps and other times they will have to target enemies such as an army of crabs that are crawling toward them. For more control over the ball, they can move the table by pressing a button. If players overdo it, the game will tilt and they will lose the ball that’s in play.
Additional Minigames
Mini-games such as pong and foosball implement the pinball control scheme and make excellent two-player modes. The sheer simplicity of the design, rules, and control scheme allows virtually anyone of any skill level to take up the challenge immediately and put up a good fight.
Final Thoughts
Flipnic is certainly a step in the right direction. No one can go wrong for twenty bucks. Players make that up in the two-player modes alone. At the very least give it a rental and see the future of pinball.