Dream Pinball 3D

Developer: TopWare
Format: Wii, PC
Genre: Arcade

3D Pinball! What will they think of next?



There are times, not few we admit, but some - when we ask, why bother? Step forward SouthPeak Games the publisher behind such 'classics' as Monster Madness and Two Worlds. The fledgling outfit now wants us to get excited about the prospect of bringing a proper 3D pinball game to the state of the art motion sensor masterpiece that is the Wii.

With so many great games in the pipeline excuse us if we don't blow a gasket over the chance to indulge in some retro pinball action that really lost its appeal along with the Fonzie and Happy Days. In a nutshell, why constantly look back at old gaming styles when there's a whole new world to explore?

But we shouldn't be too critical, especially as we still haven't seen the final, finished version. But here's what we know so far. The game features six distinctive tables and apparently draws on the latest hardware features to provide visuals that easily surpass previous pinball titles. HDR lighting, motion blur and advanced particle systems generate the in-game graphics, with selectable cameras providing one fixed and six dynamic action-tracking camera angles. The tables themselves feature a wide range of designs and themes, each one complete with multiple areas, secrets, an array of special effects and spectacular three-way multiball.

SouthPeak is also keen to talk up the new gameplay elements that places the title apart from traditional pinball. In a unique spin, balls can be made from six different materials including marble, oak, ivory and gold - each with their own distinct ballistic properties. With a multiplayer mode allowing up to four players to compete for points there's certainly enough scope for enjoyment - as long as watching a metal ball bounce around a table is your thing. Want to be a pinball wizard? You'll get your chance in February.