Williams Pinball Volume 5 | Xbox One Review

Zen Studios is at it again with another solid pack of pinball tables for its Pinball FX3 launcher. Following in the footsteps of the previous four collections, the developer provided faithful recreations of real-life tables with Williams Pinball: Volume 5. This is a welcome diversion from the original digital tables we’ve gotten from Zen in the past. Although I’ve never personally played these physical tables before, they are a welcome addition to Pinball FX. Fans of the originals won’t be disappointed in these entries, and they fit perfectly with the massive collection available on all platforms.

These tables feel slightly different than the original tables. It’s hard to explain why, but those who play regularly will notice a significant change in physics. This isn’t a bad thing, however. In fact, it makes the tables feel even more realistic that I thought possible. True to Zen Studios’ formula, there are added animations to give them that bit of something extra.

Much like the rest of the tables in Pinball FX3‘s repertoire, the three new additions have full access to all the amenities of the rest. Each is available for leaderboards, multiple methods of play, and countless views of play to provide a personal touch. It’s everything you would expect from this developer.

Tales of the Arabian Nights

Originally released by Williams in 1996, Tales of Arabian Nights has players assume the role of a hero collecting jewels to battle an evil genie. The end goal is to save a princess, a task I’ve yet to master. Still, this is probably my favorite of the three tables in this collection. It shows the brilliance of Williams’ tables, and the added flair makes me appreciative that I don’t have to continually pump quarters to play this gem. Fantastic table.

 

Cirqus Voltaire

Cirqus Voltaire was actually released by Bally in 1997. As the title suggests, this one has a heavy circus theme, but it’s the craziest circus you’ve ever seen. The vibrant lights and sounds are a standout on this table for sure. It’s a ton of fun to play and a welcome addition to the collection.

No Good Gofers

Williams’ other table in this collection, No Good Gofers, also released originally in 1997. This one has a more comedic theme to it. Your goal is to complete several holes of golf with the best score possible while avoiding the nuisance of gophers who impede your progress. It will keep you smiling with its wacky sense of humor and brilliant design.

Williams Pinball Volume 5 Final Verdict

If you’re a fan of pinball, especially classic tables, this collection is a no-brainer. All three feel right at home with the rest that Zen Studios has offered up to this point. Even casual pinball fans should appreciate the love that has been put into making these true-to-life recreations with a modern twist. It comes highly recommended.

To hear me speak about this collection more, be sure to check out Episode 275 of The Gaming Outsider Podcast. My coverage there begins at the 1:34:50 time stamp.

This review is based on an Xbox One copy of Williams Pinball Volume 5 provided by Evolve PR for coverage purposes. It is also available via the Pinball FX3 client on PlayStation 4, Steam, Windows 10, Nintendo Switch, iOS, and Android.