Developer: Zen Studios
Publisher: Zen Studios
Genre: Arcade, Pinball,
Price: $5.49
Where to buy: Steam
System Shock Pinball, a table within the Pinball M collection, throws players into the twisted world of the iconic cyberpunk shooter. While the source material might seem an odd fit for the classic arcade game, Zen Studios manages to pull off a surprisingly engaging and thematic experience.
Gameplay that Captures the Essence:
The table design is a faithful recreation of Citadel Station, the space station from System Shock. Familiar locations like Medical Bay and the Crew Quarters are transformed into pinball lanes, complete with recognizable elements like hacking terminals and cyberspace glitches. The developers cleverly translate iconic moments from the game into pinball mechanics. For example, hitting specific targets triggers SHODAN’s chilling voice, adding a layer of tension to the gameplay.
Objectives and Missions:
System Shock Pinball ditches the simple high score chase of traditional pinball and introduces a mission-based system. These missions, triggered by hitting specific targets or completing tasks, guide players through the table, unlocking new areas and objectives. Examples include:
- Defeating enemies: Represented by special targets or ramps, hitting these elements “defeats” enemies, progressing the mission.
- Hacking terminals: Completing mini-games inspired by the hacking sequences from System Shock, involving hitting specific targets in a sequence.
- Collecting cyborg parts: Hitting specific targets drops cyborg parts, which when collected complete a multiball mode.
Completing missions unlocks new areas of the table, represented by opening ramps or activating hidden lanes. This progressive structure adds a layer of strategy and keeps players engaged, encouraging them to explore different parts of the table and master various mechanics.
Unique Mechanics:
Beyond missions, System Shock Pinball introduces several unique gameplay elements:
- SHODAN’s Interference: SHODAN, the game’s antagonist, actively tries to sabotage the player’s progress. She might activate force fields, block lanes, or even fire projectiles at the ball, adding an extra layer of challenge and reflecting the character’s constant threat in the original game.
- Multiball Modes: Completing specific missions or collecting cyborg parts unlocks different multiball modes, where multiple balls are in play simultaneously, increasing the scoring potential and excitement.
- Upgrades and Power-ups: Completing objectives or collecting specific items awards temporary upgrades, such as increased ball speed, scoring multipliers, or temporary invincibility. These power-ups add variety and strategic elements to the gameplay.
Missions and Challenges:
System Shock Pinball goes beyond simply replicating the setting. The table is packed with missions and challenges that keep the gameplay fresh and engaging. Players need to navigate the table, activate objectives, and defeat enemies (represented by pinball obstacles) to progress. These missions add a layer of depth and strategy to the classic pinball experience, appealing to both casual and hardcore pinball fans.
A Touch of the Original:
The table wouldn’t be complete without paying homage to the original System Shock. Classic audio and sound effects bring back memories for fans, while iconic characters like SHODAN and the cyborg monkeys make appearances through voice lines and animations. A unique mini-game inspired by the game’s hacking sequences adds a touch of nostalgia and variety to the pinball experience.
In Conclusion:
System Shock Pinball is a successful and surprising marriage of two seemingly disparate genres. The developers capture the essence of the source material while offering innovative and engaging pinball mechanics. While the dark theme and mission-based design might not appeal to all players, System Shock Pinball is a must-try for fans of the franchise and pinball enthusiasts looking for a unique and challenging experience.
