PvP pinball is such a good idea I can't believe I haven't played it before

At PAX Australia over the weekend, I discovered a local multiplayer game called Bumper Bout that showcases an innovative concept for competitive pinball. The game pits two players against each other, with each controlling their own half of the screen and attempting to hit skill shots or manage the balls already bouncing between their flippers. However, the twist lies in the ability to flick balls across the divide, adding an extra layer of challenge and interaction.

As I played Bumper Bout, I was captivated by its unique premise. The game features a singleplayer mode with arcade and survival modes, as well as online multiplayer functionality. While playing, I was fully engaged in the intense competition and the chaotic playfields, which include levels like a space setting with satellites and moons colliding, and even a foosball table that adds another dimension to the gameplay.

Bumper Bout's mechanics are straightforward yet engaging. Each time a ball goes down the ballhole, a player loses a heart. The first one to lose all five hearts loses the round. However, scoring points by hitting bumpers and targets allows players to collect attack balls, which can be used to harass opponents or store for later use. Players can also unlock their character's ultimate ability, such as creating a gravity well or throwing bombs around the already hectic playfield.

The game's developers, recognizing the appeal of pinball while wanting to eliminate the absence of deaths in traditional pinball games, have created a thrilling experience that combines the best elements of competitive gameplay with the nostalgia of classic pinball. Bumper Bout is set to release on October 29, and you can try the demo on Steam before the full game launches.