Pinball Spire is a pinball game with extra mechanics. The pure, "vanilla" experience isn't exceptional (most of the tables are simple, and I feel like the ball aim is a bit "off" compared to what it should be), however the powers prevent it from being stale (at the cost of perhaps being too easy).
The presentation is simple, but charming, and distinctly retro (minus the lighting effects, despite being on the simple side as well). Our own ball (whose appearance you can customize if you collect the accessories scattered around) manages to have some personality, despite not having a lot of "spoken lines". The music is good and fits the mood of most situations.
As you progress, you'll become able to slow time (with an additional aim tracker which appers when the ball is on one of the flippers), turn into a fireball (useful for enemies and required to light up lanterns) adjust your direction and finally the ability to fling yourself at great speed. A mana system (which replenishes when killing enemies) keep the powers from being completely overpowered.
Said abilities will be used in a variety of tasks, although as mentioned before the tables themselves are on the simple side, when you stop for a second to look at them. The tasks might be too easy for actual pinball veterans, but at least the game avoids all frustrations which come from traditional pinballs as well.
The game is on the short side (took me around 4 hours to finish), and it's probably a good thing, considering how simple the tables are, and how the powers could easily overstay their welcome if repeatedly used again and again.
I think the game is more a 7 than an 8, but I enjoyed my time with it, so I decided to round the score up. Pinball veterans might find the experience a little too flat, even with the powers, But I think there is fun to be had if you don't come in with unrealistic expectations, and the game does feature a few clever puzzles/ideas.
All in all, it's a charming, fun twist on pinball.
