Format: HuCard
Genre: Pinball
Developer: NAXAT Soft
Publisher: NEC

Dark, gritty, detailed, well-animated... those are some of the adjectives that describe NAXAT's Alien Crush. Pinball tables usually have distinctive, eye-catching designs, but this one is more interesting than most, looking both high tech and organic at the same time. While the subareas are filled with disappointingly generic baddies, everything else about the aesthetic is unique and well done.

Alien Crush can be played with one of two songs-- one is a fast-paced, high tech affair, while the other has a more ebbing, demonic sound to it. Both are excellent. The subarea songs are fantastic as well, with the "skulls" tune in particular made up of the kind of arm hair raising characteristics that made games of this era so fantastic. Sound effects are typical pinball fare, and work well to further the game's character.

There are two keys to a successful pinball video game: first, have realistic ball physics; second, have an interesting table or two to play. Alien Crush is one of the best titles in the genre on both counts, with ball movement that is predictable, weighty, and rapid-- just like the real thing-- and a table design that is nuanced, multi-faceted, and fun to play over and over.

It's funny to say that a pinball game could have atmosphere and character on par with some of the best RPGs and adventure games of the time, but in the case of Alien Crush, that statement holds true. The wonderful table design, physics engine, and unforgettable aesthetic combine carry this pinball title far.