Metascore
79

Generally favorable reviews - based on 51 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 38 out of 51
  2. Negative: 1 out of 51
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  1. While fun can be had here, it's from the mini-games and the experience rather than solid table designs - and that's a cardinal sin in pinball.

Awards & Rankings

16
28
#28 Most Discussed DS Game of 2005
12
#12 Most Shared DS Game of 2005
User Score
7.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 40 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 27 out of 40
  2. Negative: 3 out of 40
  1. May 2, 2023
    9
    Experimenting with a long established formula can be a tricky balancing act, especially when you're looking to apply the mechanics of one gameExperimenting with a long established formula can be a tricky balancing act, especially when you're looking to apply the mechanics of one game genre to another. Metroid Prime Pinball is a bit of a strange case, since it knew exactly how far to go to make an entirely unique pinball game, sprinkling in numerous gameplay mechanics and a couple of minigames acting as bonus stages that replicate concepts right from the Metroid series (like a shooting segment), while also primarily remaining a pinball game at its core.

    Unlike most other pinball games, Metroid Prime Pinball has stage progression, power ups and bosses. Each stage distinct, with their own enemy types and some stage layouts are genuinely great, such as Phendrana Drifts acting more like two mini tables, one for each screen. I think this game isn't the hardest pinball game, and I would say that is to the games benefit, as you can loop around multiple times for gradually harder gameplay, and the game definitely is all about chasing high scores. I wouldn't say the game is perfect; the multiplayer leaves a lot to be desired, and one boss in particular feels a little frustrating since if you fail it you're booted back to the other levels rather than losing a life, but I find myself coming back to this game a lot. Its a unique pinball experience that is a ton of fun.
    Full Review »
  2. Nov 24, 2013
    7
    It's a fun spinoff to the series and works well on the DS. But being a spinoff, it lacks depth. You can beat the game in an hour. It's a funIt's a fun spinoff to the series and works well on the DS. But being a spinoff, it lacks depth. You can beat the game in an hour. It's a fun game, if you're a Metroid Prime or Pinball fan you should pick it up since it's cheap. But it doesn't deserve higher than a 7/10 Full Review »
  3. Sep 25, 2010
    7
    i can see this game being a Metroid game. but i don't get how it ties into with the Metroid prime series. but its still a great game if youi can see this game being a Metroid game. but i don't get how it ties into with the Metroid prime series. but its still a great game if you like pinball Full Review »