Pinball FX3: Universal Classics Pinball (Xbox One) Review

The three tables on offer in this pack seem to present three varying difficulties, which makes for a great pack all-round. Based on the three iconic movies, there is plenty of enjoyment to be had, as Pinball FX3 expands on the challenges with each table. Power-ups and buffs can also be applied to improve modifiers in a bid to reach those soaring heights of high scores. While fans of these film franchises will find plenty of throwbacks and enough lines from the films to pick their fancy, newcomers will still find tables charming in their own right.

Beginning with the better of the three tables, Marty McFly and Doc star in Back to the Future, as this table features iconic scenes and dialogue grabs from the three movie releases. The table starts by selecting a year to fly to in the trusty DeLorean. Then the table ensues as normal, with the ball being launched into action by the plunger, as the fun begins. The table is laid out in a way that allows for many long shots, as the openness of the table, with its varying ramps, allows for constant free-flowing ball movement that reaps many rewards. Due to the nature of the table, this is recommended for beginners and newcomers.

The second is Jaws, and this one is a little tougher to master due to the close-quarters table format. There are not a lot of open spaces, and there is a troublesome pier that can cause many issues in terms of keeping the ball in play. However, this menacing table hides the Great White. However, its brooding nature is very ominous and always present, compounded by the heart-pumping music that plays. Racking up high scores takes a little bit longer on this table due to the difficulty of activating the multi-balls, while completing some of the missions is also a little tougher due to the exact hits that need to be achieved. This is still a fun table, though, with many call-backs to the film to make it worth the time.

E.T.'s table is the toughest of the three, due to the many ramps that require precision aiming into to make great use of. However, funnily enough, it is easier than the other two in activating the mini-games that are included, such as collecting candy from around the table, trying to avoid the feds with the titular alien, or even recreating the movie's iconic bicycle scene. The point scoring is marginally better than the Jaws table, and completing these missions is a harder task that pinball diehards will salivate over.