Zen Pinball 2 Coming Spring 2012 for PlayStation and PS Vita

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Zen Pinball 2 Coming Spring 2012 for PlayStation and PS Vita

You may have seen the announcement for Marvel Pinball: Avengers Chronicles a few weeks ago, but it just so happens we have something extra special in store for PlayStation fans – Zen Pinball 2 is on the way, packed full of new features and all sorts of awesome bonuses, and it will release in conjunction with the new Marvel pack!

We have been listening to all of your feedback and have included many, many of your ideas into what is our most advanced and sophisticated pinball platform yet! There has been strong focus on keeping the community together, bringing all of your pinball tables under one roof, and then connecting the games across PS3 and Vita. If you are a pinball fan, this will be the ultimate pinball experience on PlayStation!


Zen Pinball 2 Coming Spring 2012 for PlayStation and PS Vita

So, how will all of this work if you have purchased Zen Pinball or Marvel Pinball and any DLC? It’s going to be super easy! When Zen Pinball 2 releases, you will simply need to download and install a game update, and your game will be updated FREE of charge. All of your tables will appear in one location, they will have received updated ball physics and graphics, new trophies and a much deeper social experience including in game notifications, friend challenges and even posting scores to Facebook. This free update is our way of saying THANK YOU for supporting Zen Studios and allowing us to continue work on the game we love so much.

For those of you who are new to the game, Zen Pinball 2 will be a free platform download with trials available for every table. Simply download Zen Pinball 2, and you will have access to an amazing library of pinball tables including the brand new Marvel Pinball: Avengers Chronicles pack, featuring tables based on Marvel’s ‘The Avengers’ Movie, ‘World War Hulk,’ ‘Fear Itself,’ and ‘The Infinity Gauntlet.’ Here is a glimpse of the brand new, redesigned Zen Pinball 2 dashboard, showing how the tables will be presented.

Zen Pinball 2 Coming Spring 2012

I know you are all wondering about cross platform purchases. We are happy to announce that all content purchased for Zen Pinball 2 will playable on PlayStation 3 and PS Vita at no extra charge! You can enjoy the game at home on the couch and then take it with you on the go without having to pay twice.

There are a bunch of new features available in Zen Pinball 2, such as in game scoring notifications, friend challenges, posting scores to Facebook and amazing stereoscopic 3D. We have spent serious time perfecting this game and polishing every little aspect!

Zen Pinball 2 Coming Spring 2012

When you add it all up, there will be TWENTY SIX different pinball tables available day one for Zen Pinball 2! We will continue to support the game with regular DLC, and we have new brands that we are developing tables around, including a pinball table based on one of PopCap’s most popular franchises, and we have a ton of ideas for original designs.

Thanks for three fantastic years of support for Zen Pinball! We are looking forward to the next chapter with Zen Pinball 2.

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124 Comments

69 Author Replies

  • @ Zsolt

    Local split screen?! Will it also be available for the online mode? Or will there be an online version of Hot Seat mode.

    It would be nice to be able to teach a few of my friends on how to master the game.

    • There is online multiplayer but it is no split screen. You will be able to customize the online game, such as setting the score you will play to, ball loss penalties, etc. There is also local hot seat mode.

  • Will this be available for all members, or only PS+ members?

  • i know you probably answered this before but im a bit confused.
    if i buy zen pinball and the marvel pinball right nowi can i play them on the vita when this zen pinball 2 comes out? or do i have to buy zen pinball 2 and then those 2 games will be unlocked to played them under zen pinball 2? sorry if my question is confusing

    • If you buy them right now, you will be able to import them to Zen Pinball 2 free of charge on launch day, as well as play them on PS Vita free of charge. This will be done via a title update and everything will transition over to Zen PInball 2. Does that clear things up for you?

  • @ 51 GuZ_707:

    Yes! All the tables (26 of them) in Zen Pinball 2 will be playable on both PS3 and PS Vita.

  • ooooooh ok thanks alot! i will buy them on saturday since i get paid friday. i will also buy zen pinball 2 at launch, thanks alot for the response!

  • @ 53 GuZ_707:

    Zen Pinball 2 is a platform and it’s free like the blog post says. The tables (that you haven’t bought already) are the only things that are going to cost money. :)

  • Awesome! Good job Zen, on going above and beyond the call of duty on this. Love the first one and Marvel Pinball. Having everything in one spot will be great.

    And speaking of Pinball Dreams/Fantasies… any chance y’all could grab the license for those and do an amazing update to my favorite Amiga pinball games? ;)

  • Cool, may I ask for clarification as well…?

    I do not own a PS3 (yes, shame on me), so I do not (yet) have any Zen Pinball tables purchased (double shame on me). I will be getting a Vita soon, so this question concerns only owning a Vita…

    So will all Zen Pinball tables will be available to purchase from the Vita? I’m a big Marvel fan, and while the Avengers Assemble pack looks awesome, I’d also love to get the back catalog of Zen’s other Marvel tables. Will this be possible with just the Vita?

    Whatever the answer, thanks for reading and answering our questions, Zsolt. You and Zen Studios ROCK!

    • Yes, all Zen Pinball and Marvel Pinball tables will be available for purchase on Vita via Zen Pinball 2. If you do not own a PS3, you can still get all the same content!

      Thanks!

  • @Zsolt – So are you saying that each has it’s own set of trophies, even though the list is the same? That would be awesome! Either way, very pumped to have these on my Vita. Fun!

    • Each table has the same trophies, but you will need to unlock them separately on each system. Hope that answers your question!

  • Hello Mr.Kigyossy,

    I have a question…I have tables from Zen Pinball, and to get them on the Vita. I first download on the PS3 and then run the Vita version?

    Thanks in advance for answering everyone’s questions, and to see your team’s continued support.

    • You will need to download Zen Pinball 2 on Vita (it is a free download). The game will recognize which tables you own and will be available for play! We are working hard to make this as easy as possible.

  • battlehammer1992

    WOW so awsome

  • Am I reading this right? If you already own Zen Pinball 1 then you also already own Zen Pinball 2 for the VITA? This can’t actually be the case….can it?

    • Yes, that is the case! This is no trick, I promise! Just make sure to download Zen Pinball 2 on Vita when it releases.

  • Wow, great news, It’s a Instant buy, I have all the tables from Both games, bad thing is that I have to rebuy them all for Vita, even they should be “free”, becouse I have not bought the game on my Gaming account!, damn sony for allowing to use only one account on Vita, thought I understand they a bit, my fault is that I have bought content on multiple account, and yes regions, But for this game it seems I might buy some over again….

  • Cant wait for this. When will the release date be in May? Also when will we see some screen shots or game play of the new tables. Another question just to make sure if i bought zen pinball but i got marvel pinball free through plus it will still be combined in Zen pinball 2 right ?

  • Fantastic news!! Zen (and Marvel) Pinball is simply the best arcade game ever!

  • I’ve been contemplating purchasing ZP + MP for some time, this has made the decision for me, great value package, I can’t wait!

  • Might add that the comment abowe asking for Pinball Dreams/Fantasies was a excellent idea, I hope you make it come true as It was some of my favourite pinball tables aswell, and do not forget Slamtilt aswell then (latest addition) :)

  • Clarity is needed.

    Question 1:
    I have both Zen Pinball 1 and Marvel Pinball. Will they both become updated to Zen Pinball 2, therefor creating two copies on my console? In theory, one would update then overwrite the other. Or will Zen Pinball [1] update and then Marvel Pinball becomes a DLC pack that imports into Zen Pinball 2, and disappears from my XMB?

    1. Zen Pinball 1 updates to Zen Pinball 2.
    2. Zen Pinball 2 imports Marvel Pinball and Game Data containing previously downloaded tables.

    Question 2:
    Once the updating and importing all completes, then I will have access to Zen Pinball 2 for my Vita for free? This part remains unclear because you keep using the term “content” which doesn’t typically include the main game.

    Thanks.

    • You will need to update both games, but they will both update into Zen Pinball 2, you will not have duplicated files or games.

      Once the updating is finished, you will have access to Zen Pinball 2 on Vita for free (you will need to download the game to Vita). This includes ALL purchased tables / content, and the base game – all framework, features, etc that come with Zen Pinball 2.

      Hope that answers your questions!

  • @36, i think your right, why not just get both! you can never have too much pinball!

  • I have Zen Pinball from my Plus subscription (sadly missed downloading Marvel Pinball) for play on the upcoming Zen Pinball 2 sequel that will allow us to play all existing Zen Pinball and Marvel Pinball tables. Regarding the May update, though, what aside from the tweaks to the existing tables should we look forward to when downloading Zen Pinball 2? I see the excellent interface for purchased tables, but what else would our PS3/Vita versions of Zen Pinball 2 contain? Does it show information, like high scores and trophies for other existing tables not in our collection? I see a few different icons at the bottom of the interface screenshot you provided.
    One great feature about MotorStorm RC, is the challenge wall that constantly updates to show who you’ve beat and who’s beaten your time. I hope something like this exists for both versions of the game, as I believe I picked up from the article.

    Because of something so awesome as this announcement, you have just been put on my list of anticipated games. Thanks for the hard work and consideration of your fans! Because of this, you have just added another.

    • Well, here is a list of new features:

      – PlayStation®3 system and PlayStation®Vita system cross-platform entitlement including shared global leaderboards, online friend challenges and tournaments
      – The most advanced ball physics simulation to date
      – Compete against other players to achieve the highest ProScore™, and team up with your friends to increase your TeamScore™
      – Exceptional visuals in full 3D on 3D compatible TV sets
      – Free, fully playable demos for all available tables
      – Exciting multiplayer modes, including local split-screen and hotseat multiplayer, online, and worldwide tournaments
      – New tables released regularly through the PlayStation®Store
      – Share your scores on Facebook
      – New rule sheets to help you achieve higher scores
      – New trophies for each table

      And yes, like MotorStorm RC, you will get in game notices alerting you about getting close to your own personal scores, friends scores, and then when you beat them. In fact, we were the first to introduce such a system with the release of Pinball FX2 on XBLA back in 2010. It’s pretty cool that other games are using this now, as I really enjoy it.

      Hopefully this list makes you happy!

  • Thanks for taking the time to address my question! While I’m sure some of this has been posted elsewhere, I’m glad to hear that the game will also support alerts as you stated. Good to hear you pioneered such an entertaining feature! Zen Studios has put a lot of hard work into this; I will be one of I am sure many to show my approval.

    • Absolutely. Talking with all of you is probably the best part of all of this. I only wish I could do it more.

  • Any chance we can get the Rome table?

  • this is very cool! Thank you for basically giving me some free pinball on my Vita. I know you’ve already said that the PS+ tables will transfer, but hopefully it all works without a hitch, because we all know the other free PS+ stuff we have isn’t working on the Vita yet.

    • We are confident we will get it right. It is probably one of the most technically difficult things we have ever done, but we are also one of the best at doing these types of things, and we got it right with Pinball FX2 on XBLA.

  • Thanks very much for the answer and from a pinball fan. Zen Pinball has been at the forefront of many a gathering with a couple friends.

    This is a very interesting take on getting the tables to us and I think it makes sense due to focusing on the strength of each individual table and gives each one a spotlight rather than just bundle-ling all together. It’s still nice that you have bundle packs though.

    Enough of my rambling, once again thank you and the team for filling my pinball needs. Kinda hard to say no to pinball :)

  • Thanks for this awesome news, I own every table and can’t wait for more especially for “Marvel Chronicles”! And my question is… any hope for DC Comics tables? :-) And one more THANKS!

    • There are no plans for anything based on DC right now. Probably will not happen due to legal issues.

  • I know this is just a pipe dream. But as Zen Pinball is on Android already I might as well ask. Is there any chance of seeing Zen Pinball 2 on PSSuite with the same cross platform compatibility features? I know there are a whole load of problems, mainly keeping three platforms updated in sync (or maybe just 2 as all PSSuite games work on Vita). The ball is also in Sony’s court on whether something like this is even possible. But I would just like to throw the idea out there and hope you read this, thanks. : )

  • Thanks for the great news! :)

    If that upcoming table based on a popular PopCap game is Plants vs Zombies I will buy at a high price. :D

  • Speaking of Marvel and table suggestions, please consider Ant-Man! He may not be the most well-known superhero, but there is a possibly movie in 2014! If you make a table, don’t wait that long, and do release an Ant-Man PSN avatar!

  • Will this allow you to just pick up the newer Marvel Pinball tables on the PSN or will you still need the original? I have the originals on my X-Box 360 but I prefer playing on my PS3 that’s why I ask.

    • You will not be required to have the originals in order to access the new Avengers Chronicles pack.

  • Wow amazing update and great customer service. Nice work.

  • This update isn’t going to replace my copy of Zen Pinball with Zen Pinball 2 is it?

    I mean, once I download and install the update, I’ll still be able to earn trophies for Zen Pinball 1? I wont be stuck with unachievable trophies because because my Zen Pinball 1 has been changed to Zen Pinball 2, a seperate game that has its own set of trophies?

  • Hi Zsoft

    First congratulate you on your great work, and good treatment for users and fans, so glad

    wanted to ask, I would like to know when we will see the version of vita any images or video? graphic visual quality approaches the ps3 version? I hope there is good news with the version of VITA, and not settle only with the quality of the versions for smartphones

    vita deserves a best and much radiant version to be the best handheld pinball :) thanks for all!!

    • I can assure you this is no mobile port. The game has been developed for the Vita from the ground up, and is 100% NOT A PORT.

      We will try and get some footage out in the coming weeks.

  • H ooray!
    O ne of my favs gets a free update.
    W ow, is the only way to describe it.
    A ny news,
    R elated to new tables?
    D are to dream.

    T hat’s cool..
    H ow you have
    E nabled us to have all of our previous

    D ownloaded tables
    U nlocked and, ready to play.
    C oolness. Zen is truly, the
    K ings of video pinball.

  • This is awesome. You guys are the best. I have bought every table available on PS3, 360 and 3DS so far and you will continue to have my full support with every table you release.

    • Can I just say you all have made today a very good day for us here at Zen Studios? Is it to cheesy to say I am bumping some Ice Cube right now?

  • We’re gonna have to do all trophies again on the new ZEN Pinball 2 ? Like the infernal Mars table trophy ? or they will sync already ?

    • You will keep all of your earned Zen Pinball trophies, but you will also get new trophies for all of the tables. I think it gives you a new reason to go back and play those tables again – hopefully you agree it is a worth while effort. But rest assured, your old trophies are going nowhere.

  • How does the PS Vita version compare graphically with its PS3 counterpart? (Does it feature things like realtime reflection/refraction, shadows, high-res textures?) Also, how does the framerate hold up on the Vita? (I know graphics don’t make a game great, but I’m interested to know how well the details have been preserved during the transition from PS3 to Vita.)

    • We run smoothly at 60 FPS and the game is beautiful. The Vita is an awesome device and we are making sure to use all the power available. All of the features / physics and ball effects will run on Vita just as they do the PS3. We’ll get some footage and screens out soon so you can see it in action.

  • I do plan to grab Pinball Arcade for Vita/PS3 tomorrow, but I also already own both Zen, Marvel Pinball, and some of it’s DLC. Seeing all of this pinball madness is really awesome and both companies are awesome for what they are doing with the PS3/Vita 2 for 1’s. Then I get to have all of my tables conveniently placed in a single hub? Thank you so much for doing what you do.

  • Was going to pick up Pinball Arcade as I really wanted a pinball game to play on the Vita. Given this announcement I’ll hold off and just use that money to pick up some extra tables to play on as I already own Zen Pinball. Well done guys, this is seriously awesome and can’t wait for the update!

  • Zen = Class, truly what an unbelievable idea. I cannot wait to throw money your way. Totally a great business model that all devs should adopt. Thank you D1P!!!

  • Hey Zsolt, got a question for you. It seems like there will be a new trophy list for Zen Pinball 2 and if the original Zen Pinball and Marvel Pinball will be overwritten by Zen Pinball 2, is it impossible to get the remaining trophies on the old trophy lists? The trophies are tough so I’m still working on them but it would be depressing if I’m prevented from ever achieving them. Please answer when you can! :)

    • I am not sure about this actually. Someone else also asked, I will try and get an answer for you soon.

  • Just a thought. Since you did a Ninja Gaiden Sigma table exclusive for PS3 owners, maybe a Disgaea table is possible? I’m sure Nippon Ichi would be open to it. :)

    • Disgaea would be really cool! I think you might be the first to propose this one. It’s on the list for discussion!

  • I love you guys! I Buy everything you guys put out on day 1 and this is great news.

    will all of our High scores transfer over too? Thanks

  • *fist pump*!!! that is totally awesomesauce guys! I love your games their by far my favorite pinball games evah! and cross platform now? that’s is SAWEET! thanks a bunch!

  • Zen thank you very much for all the answers, it really is much appreciated and many others should follow the example, waiting patiently to see what they have managed to do with vita

    by the way, I love to see an editor on the vita, with the facilities it provides, could be a pretty good editor and intuitive, and able to use images and photos as textures for the tables etc… drools…

    Congratulations again and thank you very much, keep up the good work

  • Great news! I’d like to know, are there 4 new tables in Zen 2 & if so, when will we see previews? Will the tables load faster? Will the combination of previous titles free up space on the hard drive? Thanks 4 all the hard work, I may just have to get the Vita now.

  • I am honestly amazed by this announcement. I hadn’t touched Zen in a while but being able to play it on my Vita really fires me up. I’m also really loving the initiative you guys have taken with this. I think it’s an excellent business model and plan on eventually buying all the dlc available to support this. Good job!

  • Hows it goin Zsolt? All the kudos everyone is giving you guys at Zen are well deserved, I feel the same as everyone that commented on this blog post. Bought Zen Pinball day 1, and all the dlc tables day 1, same with Marvel Pinball and its dlc tables, so needless to say, I’m completely stoked for Zen Pinball 2. Just a question out of curiousity. I notice one of your responses stated that we’d be getting new trophies for the older tables, and that the older trophies we earned weren’t going anywhere. Will there be a whole new trophy set for Zen pinball 2, keeping the original trophy sets for Zen Pinball 1 and Marvel Pinball seperate? Or will the original trophy sets for Marvel Pinabll, Zen Pinball 1 and Zen Pinball 2 kinda morph into one big trophy set titled Zen Pinball 2? Thanks Zsolt and Zen, keep up the great work!

    • The new set of trophies will all be under the Zen Pinball 2 platform. These will be new – nothing imported here, but you will need to earn them separately on PS3 and Vita.

      Does that answer your question?

  • Been wanting this to happen ever since you guys released Pinball FX2 on a particular other platform.

    I’m a lazy guy, I like all of my tables housed under the same game, and I’m extra happy to see you guys are also supporting the buy-once-play-on-both setup for PS3/Vita crossplay. More incentive for me to pick up the little handheld.

    On the Vita side, any word if it’ll support a vertical orientation mode? eg. Holding the Vita sideways for a longer view at the table.

  • What’s the price? I don’t know if that’s free, but it confuses me!

    • Zen Pinball 2 is a free download for everyone – included in that are the trials for the tables. If you happen to own any Zen Pinball or Marvel Pinball tables, you will be able to import them for free and get all the awesome updates.

      Outside of any tables you might not own – we have three different four packs for $9.99, and individual DLC’s for $2.49 – $2.99.

      There will be a new four pack (Marvel Pinball:Avengers Chronicles) when Zen Pinball 2 launches.

  • Well not a single bad comment on the PS BLOG, well done Zsolt, I think it’s a first.

    Well done Zen Studios, youv’e ticked all the boxes for ZP2, and added a few, then ticked them too.

    Myself & the wife (who loves Epic Quest) are looking forward to May. Keep up the great work.

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