Pinball Heroes, a collection of tables based squarely on PlayStation brand classics, is a baffling affair. The tangible, tactile machines look and feel like the real thing, with great graphics and convincing physics, but the games featured – Uncharted, PAIN, High Velocity Bowling and Everybody’s Golf are not only original launch window titles but in one case already superceded by a sequel. Even the loading screens, stamped as they are with copyright information for 2007, dates the choice.
No matter, because ignoring the fact that tables based on Gran Turismo or God Of War might be both more current and more saleable, what we have here with Pinball Heroes is brilliant. I won’t confess to be a pinball aficionado but I know how a ball should roll and react to wood, metal and plastic and the dynamics on display are suitably impressive. Likewise, the style of the individually themed (and individually purchaseable) tables are simultaneously unique yet coherent, with a real physical aesthetic.
So, as the ball shoots up from the plunger, metallic clinks play against wooden thuds, the lights flash with gusto and even the moving objects look as though there are hidden springs and coils pulling the levers. Without flashy dot-matrix displays or teleporting balls, these are pinball tables with all four feet firmly in reality rather than fantasy, and the game is all the better for it. Even additional flippers are kept to a minimum, like with the ‘Golf table’s putting green which sits snugly in the centre.
So, what you’ve got are four pinball tables, packed with charisma and character with stacks of depth and challenge. There’s in-game instructions for how to activate the various modes on each table, and all can be played horizontally or vertically (and the triggers can be held down to release the ball, so the Go can be used ‘shut’).  All are of great quality, although my favourite has to be the High Velocity balling table for its whimsical Americana theme, despite not being a big fan of the actual PSN game.
News: PSP game updated with trophy support 12 years later
In game Trophies (complete with top corner pop-ups) and online high scores round off the package, and with the expectation of additional tables in the future (Kratos, we’re looking at you) Pinball Heroes is an absolute must have for PSP owners. For eight pounds the starter pack of four represents great value and although I do have an issue with an overwhelming feeling that the game has sat in limbo for three years, it really doesn’t matter. If you’re a fan of the genre, Pinball Heroes is a must buy.
Pros:
- Great interpretations of classic PlayStation brands
- The tables feel alive with character
Cons:
- The games currently available are a little bit old
- Leaderboards were a little flaky during our playtest
A top notch, adaptable and future-proof game which absolutely deserves a place on your PSP’s memory stick. Presentation is top notch, the fan service is wonderful and there’s a huge amount of enjoyment to have for your money. It really is hard to find fault with Pinball Heroes – I’ve not been as comprehensively impressed with a PSP game for months. More games like this would suit me just fine, I just hope enough people share my enthusiasm and show their support.
