Summary
- Release Year: 1997
- Genres: Pinball
- Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: Wildfire Studios
- Publishers: 3D Realms
Balls of Steel (1997): A Pinball Masterpiece
Released in 1997, Balls of Steel is a pinball simulation game that takes the player on a wild ride through five unique and challenging tables. With its realistic physics, stunning graphics, and immersive sound effects, Balls of Steel is one of the most beloved pinball games of all time.
Gameplay
The goal of Balls of Steel is to score as many points as possible by hitting targets, completing missions, and collecting bonuses. The game features a variety of different table layouts, each with its own unique set of challenges and rewards.
One of the things that makes Balls of Steel so special is its realistic physics engine. The ball moves and interacts with the table in a very realistic way, making the game feel like a real pinball machine. This realism is further enhanced by the game’s stunning graphics and immersive sound effects.
Tables
Balls of Steel features five unique and challenging tables:
- Firestorm: A fast-paced table with lots of ramps and targets.
- Duke Nukem 3D: A table based on the popular first-person shooter game.
- Monster Bash: A spooky table with a Halloween theme.
- Street Fighter II: A table based on the popular fighting game.
- Whirlwind: A classic table with a tornado theme.
Each table has its own unique set of challenges and rewards, making the game highly replayable.
Features
In addition to its realistic physics and stunning graphics, Balls of Steel also features a number of other features that make it a great pinball game:
- Multi-ball: The game allows players to launch multiple balls at the same time, increasing the chaos and excitement.
- Special effects: The game features a variety of special effects, such as explosions, fireworks, and lasers.
- Voice acting: The game features voice acting from Duke Nukem himself, as well as other characters.
- Music: The game features a variety of rock and metal music tracks that add to the excitement of the gameplay.
Reception
Balls of Steel was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its realistic physics, stunning graphics, and immersive sound effects. It was also praised for its variety of tables and its challenging gameplay.
Balls of Steel has been ranked as one of the best pinball games of all time by many different publications. In 2006, IGN ranked Balls of Steel as the 11th best pinball game of all time. In 2008, GameSpot ranked Balls of Steel as the 4th best pinball game of all time.
Conclusion
Balls of Steel is a pinball masterpiece that offers a realistic and immersive pinball experience. With its stunning graphics, challenging gameplay, and variety of tables, Balls of Steel is a must-play for any fan of pinball games.
Additional Information
- Balls of Steel was developed by Digital Illusions CE and published by Microsoft.
- The game was released for Windows and Macintosh.
- Balls of Steel was one of the first pinball games to feature realistic physics.
- The game was also one of the first pinball games to feature voice acting.
- Balls of Steel has been ported to a variety of platforms, including the Xbox, PlayStation 2, and Nintendo Switch.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
