3-D Ultra Pinball: Thrillride
| Industry | Video games |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | United States |
| Products | 3-D Ultra Pinball: Thrillride |
3-D Ultra Pinball: Thrillride is a pinball title released in 2000, developed by Dynamix for Windows and Macintosh, and by Left Field Productions for the Game Boy Color. The game was published by Sierra On-Line and is a part of the 3-D Ultra Pinball franchise.
Gameplay
Set against the backdrop of an amusement park inspired by Hersheypark, Thrillride challenges players to accumulate points through bumper hits, lighting up specific words, completing various rides, and visiting the "snack shop." The PC edition features a primary table alongside a secondary Thrill Zone table. It includes two multiball ramps: the Wildcat, which is themed around a roller coaster, and the Coal Cracker, based on a water ride. Players can also engage with Fun Zone puzzles that unlock additional tables such as River Rafting and Lightning Racer Virtual Coaster. The game incorporates minigames as well, including activities triggered by entering the Fun Zone or initiating the Hershey's Hide and Seek event after hitting the Snack Bar 50 times, where animated treats appear on the main table for players to catch.
Reception
The reception of Thrillride was varied, with the PC version receiving moderate responses. Ron Dulin from GameSpot acknowledged the presence of "bonus tasks" and extensive bonus games but remarked that the title serves more as a casual pastime than a serious pinball simulator, noting that its lack of difficulty could result in monotony. IGN praised the high-quality simulation and diverse special modes but pointed out the absence of incentives for repeated play. Meanwhile, Computer Games described it as "fairly enjoyable," highlighting numerous skill shots and vivid graphics.
Reviews for the Game Boy Color adaptation ranged from mixed to unfavorable. Jon Thompson of Allgame appreciated its complex rules and multiple gameplay modes but criticized its physics engine, describing the ball’s movement as "floaty" with unusual behavior. According to IGN, this version was less engaging and addictive than anticipated due to simplistic visuals and limited tables offering few features.