Zen Studios has faced challenges with the transition from FX3 on the Nintendo Switch, and Pinball FX – Williams Pinball Volume 8 proves to be no different. The question of “Where is Volume 7?” is easily answered: it’s simply not available on Switch. But the bigger question is, how do these three tables stack up? Well, the results are a bit of a mixed bag.
Let’s kick things off on a high note with the standout, Black Knight 2000. Despite what its name might suggest, this table first saw the light of day in 1989 as a sequel to the original from 1980. It fully embodies that era, with vibrant colors and lights transporting me back to childhood days spent in arcades, even if my younger self doesn’t quite remember this specific table. The real nostalgia kicker, though, is the music, featuring 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 presents a bit of a learning curve, but its engaging design lures you in time and again as you aim for those drop targets and ramps, watching your high score on the rise.
Then, we’ve got Banzai Run, one of two Pat Lawlor creations in this collection. Personally, I’m more drawn to his ’90s masterpieces like Funhouse, Addams Family, and No Good Gophers. The motorcycle theme doesn’t really speak to me, and what’s worse is how the space on this table is utilized. Although the vertical playfield is a novel idea, it results in a table that seems sparse, which can make both the visual and playing experience lackluster. Plus, it doesn’t run quite smoothly—is that stutter something unique to the Switch? It’s a table that doesn’t seem inviting enough for me to want to invest time in mastering, even when virtually dispensing quarters. It’s conceptually innovative, yet it falls short on the addiction factor.
Earthshaker tends to be the easiest table to rack up high scores. Its most noteworthy feature is the multiball mode, which delivers some intense HD rumble—I’ve never felt such sustained feedback on the Switch before! It might come off as a bit gimmicky, but it does tie in well with the earthquake theme. Beyond the clever gimmick, it stands as a decent table that likely appeals most to newcomers in the pinball scene. Just be sure to use a controller with rumble capabilities; otherwise, you’ll miss out on that immersive feature.
In concluding thoughts, Williams Pinball Volume 8 delivers a mixed experience with these tables. Black Knight 2000 brings back delightful ’80s nostalgia, but for a $14.99 price tag, you’d hope for all tables to deliver equal levels of enjoyment. Earthshaker rides on its HD Rumble, and Banzai Run feels like a “growing pains” effort—sparse and a bit clunky on the Switch. It might be wise to add this pack to your wishlist for a future sale or stick with the more stable offerings in Pinball FX3.
