Undertale came out in 2015 and took the world by storm. With a heartwrenching story, compelling characters and a soulful soundtrack, it won legions of fans and became an indie gaming legend. Years later, [Gornkleschnitzer] decided to begin a pinball machine build, and it became a tribute of epic proportions.
Yes, we’re talking about a living, clacking, and breathing Undertale pinball build. [Gornkleschnitzer] demonstrates not only a deep knowledge of the source content, but also a mastery of pinball construction. The build began with a design in Virtual Pinball, which allowed the basic design to be dialled in. This allows things like trick shots and other features to be tested before cutting real parts. With the design roughed out, the real work starts. Full sets of cabinet and playfield decals were professionally printed, flashers installed, and subway tunnels lasercut in steel. All manner of flippers, slingshots and ball troughs were installed, tested, and tweaked in the pursuit of perfection.
The attention to detail is where this machine really shines. The artwork is stunning, and the game is complete with the original soundtrack, including the death theme. There’s even hidden gems like the Tem Shop and bonuses galore to be had.
It’s a stunning pinball machine, and one we’re dying to play for ourselves. If you’re keen to get your feet wet, why not consider starting with a cardboard build? Video after the break.
It is so awesome to see this posted! I was actually going to drop you a tip on this myself, but apparently it went viral enough that I didn’t have to!
Definitely check out that Pinside link if you’re interested in the tech details, as it includes a complete rewiring job and, as of today, the results of a whole convention weekend’s collected gameplay statistics.
If you’re interested in seeing a gameplay video of the machine as completed (including ramps, wireforms, and more), search YouTube for “Undertale Pinball full game” – I managed a 21-minute game that encompasses basically everything.
“Virtual Pinball, which allowed the basic design to be dialled in.”
How about a spot that will aim the ball from the release straight past all the flippers with absolutely zero possibility of hitting it? Every ‘good’ quarter sucking pinball machine has to have one of those. ;P
While I have no idea what Undertale is, building a pinball machine from scratch is one of my lifelong goals. Huge kudos to [Gornkleschnitzer] for all the amazing effort required!
I’m surprised he went with a Teensy and custom software to drive the thing instead of Mission Pinball Framework
I know how difficult producing a playfield can be !
Congrats !