Review: Pinball FX – Tomb Raider Pinball (Nintendo Switch)
Two tables in one, Pinball FX – Tomb Raider Pinball gives you bang for the buck at just $9.99. This title was recently released on the Nintendo Switch, and that’s where I first played it. But it wasn’t long before I transferred the game to Switch 2, and I recommend you play it on Nintendo’s new system if possible.
The obvious reason is the bump in resolution afforded by Switch 2. There’s no more blurriness, and everything is nice and clear. But it goes beyond that, as balls no longer land on flippers to die, and stutter is absent. In our review of Pinball FX from two years ago, we wondered why Zen Studios didn’t just ride out Pinball FX3 on Switch? Seeing Tomb Raider Pinball run on Switch 2, Pinball FX is moving closer to its claim of being “the ultimate simulation.”
Let’s discuss the tables themselves. Adventures of Lara Croft is described as a “globe-spanning pinball journey.” Perhaps that should be globe spinning, as shooting it multiple times causes it to spin and activate the main modes. The globe’s also tied into the skill shots, but I haven’t pulled them off. Being off-center of the playfield, it’s not as easy to hit as you might expect.
In fact, the table overall is challenging, and not always in the best ways. For whatever reason, this table in particular is prone to losing balls down the side drain, something that’s hard not to notice on repeat plays. I also feel it’s harder to earn table awards, though rewarding. A third flipper is welcome.
Adventures of Lara Croft fares best by nailing the Tomb Raider atmosphere. Right from the start, you’re greeted with music from the original game. You launch the ball with the Venice boat from the sequel. And visually, there’s a nice mix of greens and browns, as nature is reclaiming the temple ruins.
Secrets of Croft Manor is the other Tomb Raider Pinball table. It doesn’t look as good as its predecessor, as the indoor setting leads to less color variety. But I still appreciate the detail in this densely furnished (and fan favorite) locale.
It doesn’t have a third flipper, but I prefer the layout of the bumpers, ramps, and upper playfield of this one. The main modes get activated by hitting the fireplace enough times, and its central location makes this table more approachable. Kickbacks make me less worried about draining off the side, too.
It’s an interesting contrast. Adventures of Lara Croft looks a fair amount better, but Secrets of Croft Manor plays a fair amount better. I suppose you could argue we get the best of both worlds. It makes for a good release, although I admittedly would’ve liked a table that combined the best eye candy with the best gameplay.
Everything is augmented by some good vocal work. Unlike Pinball FX – Goat Simulator, I have no voice complaints. Lara’s actor has changed so much over the years that Croft-esque is good enough. It adds character and flavor to the high-score chasing.
Tomb Raider fans will appreciate the effort here in terms of faithfulness to the classic games, with both clear and subtle nods. Like Pinball FX as a whole, I’d hesitate to recommend this on the Nintendo Switch. But if you have a Switch 2, you’ll appreciate both of these pinball tables for different reasons.
