Devils on the Moon Brings Retro Pinball Magic to Playdate

Pinball video games have been a staple of digital entertainment for decades. Many of us remember the hours spent on Space Cadet 3D Pinball on old Windows machines or the addictive nature of Pokémon Pinball on the Game Boy Color. Now, a new contender has arrived to capture that score-chasing magic on the most unique handheld of the modern era: the Playdate.

Developed by the duo Mario and JP under the name Amano, "Devils on the Moon Pinball" is a surprisingly deep and polished experience for the crank-operated yellow handheld. While the Playdate is known for its quirky experimental titles, Devils on the Moon feels like a love letter to the classics. The developers openly cite Pokémon Pinball as a primary inspiration, and that influence shines through in the game's approachable yet challenging design.

The game features a three-tiered vertical table, which is a clever way to handle the Playdate’s screen dimensions. Since the screen is wider than it is tall—unlike traditional pinball machines—the developers implemented "stylized physics." This makes the ball feel slightly floatier, preventing it from zooming off the screen too quickly and giving players a fair chance to react. The controls are simple and effective: the D-pad and A button handle the flippers, while other buttons allow for table tilting to save a stray ball.

One of the most exciting features is the inclusion of boss battles. By completing specific modes, players are transported to different arenas where they must use the ball to deplete an enemy's health bar. It adds a layer of progression that goes beyond just hunting for a high score. Although the Playdate's signature crank doesn't come into play here, the fluid animations and lack of lag make it a standout title for the platform.

For those who love the tactile feel of pinball but don't have the space for a full-sized machine, Devils on the Moon seems like a perfect portable alternative. It’s a game that rewards practice and learning the intricacies of the table, making it a great addition to any Playdate library.