Released in 1992 for the TurboGrafx-16, Time Cruise is a unique pinball video game that combines traditional pinball mechanics with a science-fiction theme and time-traveling adventure. Developed by Face Corporation and published by NEC Avenue, the game stands out among console pinball titles thanks to its imaginative table designs, colorful visuals, and unusual progression system.
Unlike most pinball games that focus on achieving the highest score possible on a single table, Time Cruise introduces a story-driven concept. Players use their pinball to travel through different eras of time, including prehistoric landscapes, ancient civilizations, futuristic cities, and outer space. Each time period features its own objectives, bonus events, and visual style, giving players a sense of progression that was uncommon in pinball games of the era.
The gameplay follows standard pinball rules, with players controlling flippers to keep the ball in play while aiming for targets, ramps, and bonus zones. What makes Time Cruise special is the variety of missions scattered throughout each table. Completing certain objectives opens portals to new time periods, allowing players to continue their journey through history. This structure transforms the game from a simple score-chasing experience into something closer to an adventure game.
Visually, Time Cruise takes full advantage of the TurboGrafx-16 hardware. The tables are detailed and colorful, featuring animated backgrounds and themed artwork that help distinguish each era. While the physics may not be as realistic as modern pinball simulators, the controls feel responsive and satisfying. The soundtrack also deserves praise, delivering energetic music that complements the game's fast-paced action.
One of the game's greatest strengths is its accessibility. New players can quickly understand the basics, while experienced pinball fans will appreciate the challenge of discovering hidden objectives and maximizing their scores. The variety of time periods also helps prevent gameplay from becoming repetitive, a common problem among many pinball titles.
Although Time Cruise never achieved the fame of larger TurboGrafx-16 releases, it has earned a loyal following among retro gaming enthusiasts. Today it is remembered as one of the most creative pinball games available on the platform. Players looking to experience this hidden gem can enjoy Time Cruise online through GameYak, making it easy to revisit this unique blend of pinball action and time-travel adventure without requiring original TurboGrafx-16 hardware.
For fans of retro pinball games, Time Cruise remains an entertaining and often overlooked classic that showcases the creativity of early 1990s console gaming.
Each game uses different controls, Games can a combination of mouse,keyboard and Joystick.
