Sonic Pinball Mania (PinEvent V2, FizX 3.0)

Sonic Pinball Mania (PinEvent V2 - FizX)

 

Created by: TerryRed

 

Version 1.71 (Aug 2023)

 

Get ready for the most EPIC Sonic pinball table ever created... and a pinball game like you've never seen before!

 

This has everything a Sonic fan could want in one table. Green Hill zone scenery, Sonic Loop ramp, animated bumpers, springs, item box, checkpoint, chaos emerald flashers, red star spinner, launch tunnel, rotating goal sign, moving robots, animated characters such as Sonic / Knuckles / Shadow... and even Dr Robotnik and his eggmobile which will follow your ball with it's spotlight... and much more!

 

This table takes full advantage of BAM's latest features with full dynamic lighting and ray cast shadows and shadowmaps to create a stunning visual pinball showcase!

 

What started as a quick BAM mod to update Brendan Bailey's classic Sonic table of 2005 (which was updated by SLAMT1LT in 2014), evolved into a complete overhaul to the entire table. Everything in the table has either been updated or changed, and I've added so many new things (new layout, art, models, lighting, modes, code, fixes, etc) that it's like a new table. Hence... Sonic Pinball Mania.

 

 

FizX

 

This table has been fully updated with FizX v3.0 physics for game changing new physics on Future Pinball. FizX uses techniques similar to nFozzy physics on VPX to completely change the physics for the flippers, slings, rubbers, targets, ball behavior and more that allows this table play much more realistically than anyone ever thought was possible on Future Pinball. You will be amazed at the difference!

 

 

 

 

 

PinEvent V2

 

This table is also updated to fully support PinEvent V2 features (DOF, PUP SSF, PUP DMD). It has modern PUP DMD display options that can work with all setups. With it's crisp HD text and dazzling videos, it's sure to wow everyone who sees it.

 

 

 

 

 

I'm really proud of what I pulled off with this, and I really hope you enjoy it!

 

 

For an EPIC video preview of this table in action with PinEvent V2 features, check out this video:

 

 

 

 

 

Thanks of course to these awesome contributors:

 

TerryRed - Sonic Pinball Mania

Brendan Bailey (PinWizKid) - created the original Sonic the Hedgehog table in 2005

SLAMT1LT - sounds, music, code, DMD, etc from his Ultimate mod in 2014

 

Schlabber34 - new pre-rendered insert images

FLEEP - new mechanical sounds

JLou - for FizX and support

All the FP lads at Pinball Nirvanna for ideas, examples, and support

Nailbuster - Pinup Player and SSF support

Ravarcade - for creating the awesome BAM and providing assistance with BAM features

Chris Leathley - creator of Future Pinball

 

 

DISCLAIMER:

 

This table is a fan-made work of passion, and is NOT intended for commercial usage or to be included in any part of a commercial sale!

 

 

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This table is single player only.

 

 

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Static Camera Views (desktop mode only)

 

• during attract mode only, you can press plunger to toggle integrated static desktop camera views

SONIC BALL

 

• right flipper button will toggle between Sonic and Chrome ball texture (only in attract mode). This can be set in TABLE OPTIONS in the table script

Plunger and Action Buttons (digital plunger, special 1, special 2)

 

• all buttons/keys will activate Sonic Spin Dash and Magna-Spinner
• all buttons/keys will act as an autoplunger during gameplay

Second Stage Flippers

 

• this table supports second stage flippers for cabinet players with this setup
• this needs to be enabled in TABLE OPTIONS in the table script
• ensure that your Second Flippers are setup in FP Control Settings
• ensure that your Special 1 and Special 2 keys / buttons are NOT the same keys / buttons as Second Flippers! (they are by default)

TABLE OPTIONS

 

 

 

 

BAM Ray Cast Ball Shadows:

 

• this table was created to look best with the new BAM Ray Cast Ball shadows

• this feature is ENABLED on the table script by default

• this feature requires a fast video card, and will use much more of your GPU

• if the table doesn’t run smooth, then your PC may not be fast enough to handle this feature (and you should disable it)

 

You can enable Ray Cast shadows in the BAM menu, or in TABLE OPTIONS in the table script

 

• open BAM menu while in-game (~ or Q by default), and goto "Addons - Configure Ball and Shadows"
• Sharpness = 0.850, Dark Level = -1.0

 

To disable this feature, disable it in both the BAM menu and the TABLE OPTIONS


BAM Menu settings:

 

• BAM Lighting and Post Processing settings are set by the table script and will ALWAYS override the user's settings
• this is needed to ensure that all lighting is set correctly at all times.

 

 

Physics: FizX v3.0


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PinEvent V2 features for this table:

 

• DOF
• PUP SSF
• PUP DMD
• PUP Stream
• Night Mode key
• TILT BOB key

 

Note: for PUP Stream there is no Playfield Mini Screen option

 

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GAME NOT RUNNING SMOOTHLY FOR YOU? TRY THE FOLLOWING:

- disable RayCast Ball Shadows in TABLE OPTIONS "first", then disable it in the BAM menu while playing (Addons - Configure Ball and Shadows)
- disable Reflections options in FP's Video / Rendering settings
- lower Antialiasing settings in FP's Video / Rendering settings
- disable any SSAO options in BAM plugins menu (disabled by default)


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TABLE REQUIREMENTS (very important!)

 

• All Visual C++ Runtime updates
• FP and BAM (updated to 1.5-365 or higher)
• Future Pinball and BAM Essentials AIO package (installed AFTER installing FP or after updating BAM)
• my BAM Settings files installed
• the REQUIRED “Video / Rendering Options” and “Editor Options” set in Future Pinball settings (included with the table's zip file)

 

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INSTALL INSTRUCTIONS (REQUIRED)

 

• PLEASE read the Install Instructions (included with the table's zip file)
• it shows you how to check what version of BAM you have installed
• it shows you how to install all the REQUIRED items above (and provides links to download them)
• it shows you how to easily setup FP and BAM with the REQUIRED settings
• there is a FAQ included that will answer most questions!

It's super easy, and only takes minutes to do!


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How to run Future Pinball to play the table

 

PLEASE read the Install Instructions (included with the table's zip file) to know how to properly use FP and BAM

 

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PROBLEMS?

Read the Install Instructions included in the table's zip file.

It tells you everything you need to know, has a very helpful FAQ, and has lots of pretty pictures!

Again, read the FAQ and the Install Instructions in the table's zip file!


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CHANGELOG

 

1.71

 

- small fix for spinner toy positioned too high and showing through the bracket

 

1.7 - FizX v3.0 physics update

- updated table for FizX v3.0 physics
- replaced spinner with a toy spinner and Wecoc's code (wont get stuck anymore, or stop balls)
- new integrated Static Desktop Camera Views (press plunger during attract mode to toggle)
- during attract, right flipper now toggles sonic / chrome ball
- small fixes
- Tail's plane now flies higher (and not partially through the cabinet side walls)
- new install instructions
- ball rolling sounds changed in table and in pup-pack

 

1.6 - FizX physics and Ball Rolling Sound updates and fixes

 

- updated FizX physics code to change how ball ID's are handled to prevent conflicts
- updated FizX physics code for more efficient Rubber bounce handling
- updated Ball Rolling Sound code to change how ball ID's are tracked to prevent conflicts
- removed old PUPRollingUpdateTimer commands that are no longer used (would give an error if PinEvent Settings were forced to be disabled)

 

1.5 - New Sonic Spin Dash and Magna-Spinner, FizX v2.0, Big update!

- NEW Magna-Spinner feature! Activate Magna-Spinner with checkpoint. Use Plunger/Special to hold ball (for a limited time) and then release to shoot ball in direction of the animated light
- NEW Sonic Spin DASH feature! You get Sonic Spin Dash lit up at start of each ball, or by hitting the Checkpoint
- to use Sonic Spin Dash, hold down plunger/special (for a limited time) and then release to DASH in direction of animated pointer
- new apron lights and art for Sonic Dash and Magna-Spinner
- new Camera Control option for multiball and Magna Spinner views
- added shadowmaps to flashers and combined additional shadowmaps and decals to one layer
- added shadows to sidewall and backwall art
- updated table layout and geometry for better ball flow (single DT area and R target), and updated playfield and plastics art
- new proper BALL SAVE functions (no more double dipping the Launch Bonus)
- when MB is completed (after you get green chaos emerald), you can't lock balls or play MB again until after Super Sonic is cleared, or you start a new game
- Ring Hunt, Tails is Tripping, and Bot Bash now start with the ball in the plungerlane (you now have to Bash all 6 bots and collect all Rings yourself)
- various other fixes
- updated table and physics to FizX v2.0
- updated PinEvent V2 Ball Rolling functions: new singular code for both FP and PUP SSF
- updated PinEvent V2 PinMechSound code to support new FizX auto ball hit events based on PF materials
- removed all triggers and sounds used for ball hit sounds (no longer needed with FizX v2.0)
- added more FLEEP mechanical sounds to support new FizX dynamic ball hit events
- this allows for amazing new dynamic mechanical and SSF sounds for the entire table!
- new FizX code no longer requires flipper Swing Angle to be specified in the FizX Flipper settings!
- FizX slingshots, drop targets, rubbers are now set in the FizX General Settings section (not in a FizX Profile)
- FizX XML_FPS is now set in its own section
- updated FizX Profiles to only change FizX Flipper settings
- there are no longer FizX Profiles used for different physics xml settings
- any settings needed for a different PHYSICS XML FPS is now set in the FizX FPS settings section

 

Changelog (v1.4)

- updated entire table for the new FizX physics system (adapted from nFozzy techniques on VPX)
- added plastics reflective layer
- added new GI shadows layer
- added second stage flippers option
- added speed booster to right wireramp to ensure ball completes loop if hitting bots
- fixed Ball Saver not activating when launching a new ball (you can now adjust the time in TABLE OPTIONS)

 

Changelog (v1.3)

 

- added option to disable the Shield's SlowMotion (the slow motion made the game unplayable for some users - 5 fps, etc)
- updated Install Instructions
- added new info relevant to the new version of Baller Installer

 

Changelog (v1.2)

- added PinEvent V2 support for PUPDMD, PUPStream, and a new pup-pack with videos / text / overlays / backglass
- added lots of new music - new songs played with each new ball, and after each mode is completed
- small changes to playfield art
- various fixes and tweaks, relocated top most kicker to make the shot a bit easier
- fixed Mania Mode blinking (no longer blinks when lock is lit, etc)

 

EVERYONE using PinEvent V2 features (DOF, PUP SSF, PUP DMD) MUST read the new install instructions included in the table's zip file!

 

Changelog (v1.1)

 

- lots of various fixes and changes that should make the game easier and more fun to play
- new chrome side rails
- Special 1 and Special 2 key / button will now also act as a plunger during gameplay
- adjusted spinner settings, added Ravarcade's new spinner code
- choas emerald inserts will blink when their respective mode is selected / active (only if it's not already collected)
- added new PinEvent V2 automated control and features code
- added full DOF and PUP SSF support
- added Table Options to disable ball effects for Invincible, Shield, and Sonic Shoes (for slower PC's)
- added 10 second ball saver to the start of each mode
- added new Tilt Warning Recovery control option
- added DF1 physics to upper right flippers, adjusted angle slightly (mid-right flipper can hit Mania Modes easily when ball is cradled)
- if Mania Modes is lit when starting multi-ball or before ball drains, it will now be lit again after multi-ball ends and for next ball
- changed kicker brake plates to not be set to "Mark as Ornamental"
- fix for upper flippers not turning off for tilt
- fix goal post not rotating correctly on drain (should show Robotnik)

 

Changelog (v1.0 - first release)

 

- removed older previous updates that are no longer needed (fake flashers, fake surfaces for playfield / plastics / GI ON-OFF, etc)

- new G.I. lighting (dynamic lighting - x4 hidden flashers in lower and upper plastics), new drain flasher for accented colour

- new spotlight models and spotlight flashers on each slingshot

- new BAM lighting and post processing

- added all new lighting for flashers, created chaos emerald flasher models and gold ring stands

- new 3D model inserts, new pre-rendered insert textures, new bump maps for inserts, disabled glow radius for all inserts

- new decals for inserts

- new HUD art for all modes and events

- new 4K art for playfield, plastics, apron, backglass, side and backwalls, cabinet, targets (the whole table has new art)

- added shadowmaps to most G.I lights, added pre-baked shadowmaps (created by BAM) to playfield and plastics textures

- optimized shadows and lighting for ray cast ball shadows

- added all new FLEEP sounds for all mechanical actions (flippers, bumpers, slings, drain, etc)

- added BAM DF1 physics (updated settings in editor to better work with new physics)

- updated layout, widened mid-left flipper area, new upper playfield and loop ramp, new wireramps, geometry fixes on entire table

- new animated Sonic bumper models and animated Sonic springs for autoplunger and vuks

- new plungerlane launch tunnel with sonic ring models, and animated light sequence

- new Launch Bonus feature, that gives you a random character bonus

- new rotating goal sign that shows your launch bonus character

- new Sonic Red Star spinner

- new animated Sonic, Knuckles, Shadow, Tails, and Dr Robtonik models

- new (Tails) Tornado bi-plane, and fly-by sequence for drained ball

- new Dr Robotnik Eggmobile with a flasher spotlight, that follows and tracks the ball everywhere (cool effect)

- new Green Hill Zone models for Loop Ramp, grass and rock, trees, totem poles, bridge, and animated sunflowers

- new animated Item Box: when hit it awards you items, coins, 1up, and Power Ups

- new PowerUp: Sonic shoes - trail effect on ball & extra points / rings for many things

- new PowerUp: Shield - shield around ball and slows down speed of entire table

- new PowerUp: Invincible - animated effect around ball - can't drain - kickback and all popups activated

- new PowerUp: Spinner Bonus 5x

- new VR room. models, and textures

- new Sonic Ball that can be toggled with Special 1 and 2 keys

- updated DMD: displays emeralds, coins, banked, balls, score, mode info and countdowns

- new animated Checkpoint - when hit will light Mania Modes

- new Mania Modes: Ring Hunt, Magna Blast, Tails is Trippin, Bot Bash

- Ring Hunt: collect all Rings, added dozens of new rotating sonic rings to be collected

- Magna Blast: avoid Robotnik's yellow Magna Blast beam or ball gets trapped in a few spots

- Tails is Trippin: Tails flys by and drops cargo and you need to collect 6 of them

- Bot Bash: hit all of Robotniks moving and static robots

- added models and animation for cargo boxes, Crab Meat robots, Gun Beetle robots, MotoBug robots

- new Super Sonic mode - collect all choas emeralds - defeat Robotnik

- new animated Super Sonic model and transformation sequence

- added holograms for explosion effects

- additional sound effects and music

- lots and lots and lots of new code for new content, changes, updates, and fixes

 

A huge amount of work overall...so I'm sure there's lots I've forgotten to include - TerryRed