technology
Devils on the Moon Pinball Released for Playdate Handheld Console
Developers Amano released Devils on the Moon Pinball last week for the Playdate handheld console, inspired by Pokemon Pinball. The game features a three-tiered table with stylized physics, simple controls, and boss battles. It provides a portable pinball experience without the space and cost of physical tables.
Apr 5, 9:00 AM·1m read4 sources
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Devils on the Moon Pinball, developed by Amano, launched last week for the Playdate console. The game marks Amano's third title for the platform. Developers Mario and JP cited Pokemon Pinball as a key inspiration, with JP noting it as one of his most-played games.
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Controls consist of directional pad inputs for flippers and ball launch, plus tilt options via right, up, or B button presses. The crank is not utilized. Physics employ stylized elements to suit the device's wider-than-tall screen, making the ball feel floaty to prevent rapid downward movement, as explained by JP.
The table design includes three vertical levels, each with dedicated flippers, compensating for the absence of 2D ramps. Players access boss battles by completing modes, where the ball shifts to a separate space to attack a giant enemy and deplete its health bar.
Mario described the rules as simple, akin to older pinball machines, with added challenges beyond initial scope to accommodate beginners while maintaining engagement.
Visuals feature a distinct identity to immerse players in the playfield. Audio includes a main theme track and suitable sound effects like beeps and boops, without lag or stuttering. The presentation aligns with Playdate's capabilities, promising at least one song on its page.
Playdate's portability allows quick sessions in decent light or extended play. The game demands practice for high scores, with variety in the multi-tiered layout sustaining interest. Pinball enjoyment derives from mastering the table, a process the game facilitates.
Physical pinball tables require significant expense and space, which Devils on the Moon avoids. Video pinball history includes titles like Space Cadet 3D Pinball on Windows 95, Demon’s Tilt in 2019, Metroid Prime Pinball for Nintendo DS, and Pokemon Pinball for Game Boy Color. No contradictions appear across sources regarding the game's features or release.
