Pinball FX – Bethesda Pinball Review

A Gamer’s Dream Collection

I’ve played a fair few of the Pinball FX tables of late, and the wide variety of different themes is quite impressive. From classic to the more obscure, and originals thrown in there for good measure, there’s surely something for everyone. However, the latest collection of tables is aimed squarely at gamers, drawing inspiration from one of the biggest publishers in the business. That’s right, Pinball FX – Bethesda Pinball is here.

This collection comes complete with three tables, spanning the world famous universes of Fallout, DOOM and The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. Each is authentically realised by the folks at Zen Studios, capturing the essence of each series. Each table looks and sounds just as you would expect, and is sure to bring a feeling of nostalgia to fans of each game.

Base Game Requirements and Trials

To be clear, this set of tables is DLC and requires the base game, Pinball FX, to play. The good news is that it’s free to download, and comes bundled with three tables to get you started. New tables are released regularly, and there’s quite a few to choose from already. This means players can easily pick and choose the tables that appeal most to them, even downloading a cheeky free trial before committing to buy.

This being a bundle of Bethesda themed tables, there is a strong RPG theme running through each, which is to be expected. For example, the Fallout table starts off with a basic character creation tool, affecting your play session in different ways. It also has a shop which can be accessed by sinking your pinball into the corresponding hole. If you have collected enough caps whilst playing, you can buy all sorts of different items to help you on your way.

Skyrim’s Persistent Character Customisation

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim table echoes this with character customisation, as well as the ability to continue with the same one between play sessions. Loot and other items acquired whilst playing can then be equipped, giving advantages to stats such as health and attack power. The way these features are worked into each table feels natural and well integrated, but ultimately they didn’t make too much difference and I ended up not paying much attention to them. I might be being unfair here, but what I like most about pinball is smacking the little metal fella around the table as much as I can.

Thankfully, there’s plenty else going on with each table too. Whether it’s demon corruption levels rising on the DOOM table causing them to spawn in large numbers, a dragon flying over and spitting fire all over the The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim table, or opening the vault for big rewards on the Fallout table, there’s plenty to keep each session feeling fresh. Oh, and it won’t rinse you of your loose change either.

Rip and Tear: Why the DOOM Table is a Standout

Personally (and it’s mainly because I adore the games) my favourite in this collection is the DOOM table. It’s a little less complicated than the other two tables, but it’s jam packed with elements from the game, even down to you being able to launch your pinball with different weapons such as the super shotgun. Samuel Hayden helps provide a commentary as you fight off demons whilst hitting the loops and navigating the portals. There’s also the ever fearsome Cyberdemon to takedown and even a mini table high up in the cabinet, which plays like a hellish version of Breakout.

That being said, all three tables are good fun to play, but not a walk in the park either. The beauty of these virtual tables is that the developers can really lean into each franchise much more than in the physical world, and let’s face it, there’s plenty of source material to draw from.

Those familiar with Pinball FX will know about the questlines, and there is a new one for this Bethesda collection. These consist of a series of challenges for each a maximum of three bumpers are up for grabs. Unlocking these in turn offers rewards for your “Pinhall”, which is essentially a virtual museum space. Figures, posters, statues and more can be used to decorate this space and show off your achievements.

The challenges themselves are a mixed bag, including play conditions such as a limited number of flips, score thresholds to hit before the time runs out, and surely the most popular (which is utter madness), multiball mode. All of the series staple customisation options are present and correct here too, such as changes to ball physics, modifiers and more. 

A Worthy Addition to the Pinball Library

For the high score junkies out there, leaderboards are also available which pit you against your friends, and the global community. You can also join or create limited time events, as well as play in tournaments if you’ve got a competitive itch to scratch. 

Pinball FX – Bethesda Pinball is the latest set in a long line of enjoyable tables added to the expanding library. Some may feel it is a little pricey, but if you’ve enjoyed Pinball FX previously, or looking for a place to start, this is as good a place as any to get stuck in. 

Important Links

DOOM Meets Skyrim Meets Fallout In Bethesda Pinball – https://www.thexboxhub.com/doom-meets-skyrim-meets-fallout-in-bethesda-pinball/

Buy from the Xbox Store – https://www.xbox.com/en-gb/games/store/pinball-fx-bethesda-pinball/9pf47711gpxd